How to Breathe With the Tuba

Breathing while playing will help you hold notes longer.

Breathing while playing notes on the tuba may seem liken an impossible task. Learning to circular breathe is the principle method that a tuba player utilizes to sustain notes while simultaneously inhaling in a manner that prepares him to keep the note playing. It takes practice and close attention to the technique but once you are comfortable with it you will be able to play longer pieces with skill.

Instructions

1. Puff your cheeks out as you feel your breath running out. Work to make this action smooth by slowly expanding your cheeks. Keep playing the note while being careful to maintain the same tone and force for the note.

2. Push your cheek muscles inward to force the air in your mouth into the tuba. As you do this begin inhaling sharply through your nose. This step is done when you are playing sustained notes that do not need to be loud.

3. Stop inhaling and allow the air inhaled through your nose to fill your mouth. Use this air to hit a note that requires force to form it or to make it louder. Purse your lips to increase the pressure of the air going in the tuba. This will help you hit higher or louder notes without using up your air reserves as quickly.

4. Fill your cheeks with air and begin the process again. Whenever possible, remove the tuba from your lips and take several full breaths. This will help you avoid getting light headed with this technique.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the technique with a straw and a glass of water. Blow bubbles and try to complete the steps while keeping the bubble flow going.

References

• University of Northeastern Iowa: "Proper Breath"; Jeffrey L. Funderburk
• Music for Brass: "Circular Breathing: When and How to Use It"; Kevin Thompson
• Norlan Bewley: Tuba Tips for Players and Students
• Brass Advantage: Circular Breathing