Tuba

The Tuba doesn't get many tunes but is in many ways the most important instrument in a wind or brass band. Without its resonant depth and strength the whole band will sound weak. The tuba has excellent parts to play in brass ensembles and also plays in the orchestra for large scale works. There is a challenging and growing body of excellent solo material to entice the advancing tuba player. If you want to be important without being flashy, play the tuba!

Starting age

• 11 years.
• Many tuba players switch to tuba after several years on a smaller instrument, usually Euphonium.

Cost

• New £1700 for an extremely basic instrument, but this is one of the few instruments that is often provided on long term loan by schools or bands, so you may not have to buy one for a long time.
• 2nd hand: Best to hire or borrow an instrument until you are convinced that you would like to buy one, then go for a good quality instrument (£2,000+) although it is possible to find 2nd hand instruments for as little as £700.

Hire

• Available through Kent Music and schools

Running Costs

• Minimal - slide oil is essential.

Suitability

• Yes, it does take a lot of puff, but technique and commitment rather than the size of the player is most important.
• Girls as well as boys frequently become fine tuba players.

Where to play

• A very wide range of music.
• You may not get many tunes but you are always in demand.
• It is an essential instrument in wind and brass bands.
• Find out more about instrument care and maintenance

Famous Pieces

• Tubby the Tuba - George Kleinsinger - Tubas can play tunes!
• Fantasy for Tuba - Malcolm Arnold
• Concerto for Tuba - Vaughan Williams - This most famous concerto shows off the instrument to the full
• Concerto for Tuba - Edward Gregson - Very accessible and frequently played by Tuba and Wind Band

Famous Performers

• John Fletcher - LSO and Philip John Brass Ensemble