Tubas

When it comes to buying a tuba, things can be a bit complicated. They vary in size, materials, price range, brands and many more factors. However, the guide below will help you know the wide range of options and some tips on choosing the best. So, read on!

A tuba is a lowest-pitched instrument in the brass family. It made its first appearance in the mid-19th century and became one of the newer instruments in modern concert bands and orchestras. In America, the one who plays the tuba is known as a tubist or tubaist whereas, in the UK, people call them a tuba player or bass player, in the case of military or brass band. You can find the use in many places like marching bands, jazz bands, and drum and bugle corps. This instrument may range from student to intermediate and professional tubas. However, there are certain differences in design and construction. On this page, we will explore some things you need to know about choosing the best tuba for beginners or professionals.

Things you need to know about tubas

There is a range of options you can find in the market. Bb and C are the most common and popular types for beginners or young players. Bb tubas have extra weight and broad sound that brings balance to the band’s sound. On the other hand, C tubas have a more compact and clearer sound that makes them perfect for orchestra. Eb type is another popular variety that is commonly found in British Brass bands. However, this is also the choice of professional players. Most marching bands use sousaphones that easily wrap around the body. There are many materials, construction sizes options and price ranges to choose from. Read on to know more.

Characteristics of tuba musical instrument

It is a brass instrument characterized by its deep sound and large body. It generally comprises vertically coiled tubing, some valves, a wide conical bore, a bell, and a cup-shaped mouthpiece. Different parts of a tuba are designed and shaped as per standard techniques. The bell is the part where the sound waves emerge. Its size may vary from 12.5 to 20 inches depending upon the structure and sound to be produced. The valves of a tuba can be rotary or piston. Compensating valve, on the other hand, allows for accurate tuning. Lead pipe is the pipe where the tuba mouthpiece is placed. The mouthpiece is the part where the player inputs direct air and lip vibration.

Wagner tuba, Bass tuba & other popular types

There are many types available in the market like marching band tuba, sousaphone, upright, baritone horn, bass tuba, euphonium, Wagner and many more. Each may differ in construction, output, and applicability. For example, most marching bands use sousaphones that easily wrap around the body. Wagner tuba, on the other hand, has features of both French horn and trombone. The Wagner type generally comes in one of F (bass) and Eb (tenor) keys. They contain rotary valves generally. Bass tuba is another kind that usually comes in the key of Eb or F. You can choose from many other types per the application.

Plastic tubas

Plastic instruments are slowly appearing in the music industry now. Earlier it was the trombone, then trumpet, and finally, we have plastic tubas available. It is lightweight in comparison to its metallic counterparts. It has found its use in music schools and concert bands as a result. This is also able to produce good sound. They are cheaper than their brass counterparts, which makes them affordable for beginners. Also, you can find them in a range of colours such as black, red, yellow, and blue. However, it may come with certain disadvantages as well. It may be fragile equipment for you, and also it would require a good level of maintenance.