the tuba
Of course, the tuba is the lowest of brass instruments!
It was invented in the early 19th century and has no direct ancestry with the same general characteristics and appearance. The bore, bell and stance of tubas has evolved since 1835. The sousaphone is another form of the tuba, shown below with the big bell facing forward, used more often in marching bands. Concert tubas come with the bell-front style or the brighter-sounding and cleaner-articulated upright bell. Alto Horn in E flat Alto Horn in F Baritone Euphonium Bass Tuba in E flat Bass Tuba in F Contrabass Tuba in C Contrabass Tuba BB flat |
The BB-flat tuba, pitched one octave below the baritone, is the most common school tuba used. The F tuba has become the choice for solo an chamber music in the U.S. The CC tuba is preferred for the orchestra.
Tubas can come with rotary or piston valves.
Overall, tone is the most important when selecting a tuba to purchase. Because of its size, large amounts of air to support and sustain the tone are a big part of learning to playing the tuba. Also, the tuba is the foundation of the band or orchestra because the pitch of any chord is based on the lowest or fundamental pitch. The tuba establishes the pitch for the entire group, orchestra, band or quintet. Therefore, intonation and downbeat rhythm must be precise. The main elements of a good consistent responsive tone are plenty of air, consistent support for that air, and a relaxed throat and jaw.
The tuba and sousaphone are relatively low maintenance instruments, but they both should be stored in their cases, and as with all instruments, need to be cleaned regularly.
Tubas can come with rotary or piston valves.
Overall, tone is the most important when selecting a tuba to purchase. Because of its size, large amounts of air to support and sustain the tone are a big part of learning to playing the tuba. Also, the tuba is the foundation of the band or orchestra because the pitch of any chord is based on the lowest or fundamental pitch. The tuba establishes the pitch for the entire group, orchestra, band or quintet. Therefore, intonation and downbeat rhythm must be precise. The main elements of a good consistent responsive tone are plenty of air, consistent support for that air, and a relaxed throat and jaw.
The tuba and sousaphone are relatively low maintenance instruments, but they both should be stored in their cases, and as with all instruments, need to be cleaned regularly.