How to Play the Tuba

Learn the basics of playing a tuba, from how sound is made to using pedal tones and controlling the tuba's volume, as our expert tuba player and teacher explains in this free tuba music education video series.

Series Summary

The oompah sound of the tuba is probably one of the most distinctive things this low-register brass giant has going for it. Often found in orchestral settings, marching bands, and Bavarian beer festivals, the tuba is a large valve instrument that produces deep, smooth notes and tones. Whether it’s creating a pulsing bass line for accompaniment, or actually playing the lead melody in a song, the tuba’s sound is hard to miss. And it takes a special kind of person to play this beast of an instrument. Tubas are not known to impart to their owners any abilities to look cool or “rock out.” Rather the opposite—tuba players are often stigmatized for choosing something less popular than, say, the mighty, ubiquitous three or four: guitar, drums, bass, and keyboard.

If you have been considering taking up tuba, this video series is perfect for you. Not only will you learn the basics of forming an embouchure, you will learn how to sit, stand, and breathe when playing the tuba. Our expert, Kevin, shows you how to tune a tube and how to play octaves. Learn how to control your volume and range. Certainly, the tuba has a personality all of its own. So, if you seek to learn a less ordinary instrument that can command an audience, take some time and learn how to play the tuba today!

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About the Presenter

Kevin Smith

How to Play the Tuba

About the Presenter

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