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I know that this has probably been asked a couple of times before, but it's always interesting to hear people's opinion on this matter. Personally, I like both of them equally, whether it's playing in one or listening to it in a performance.

Orchestra, I just like a lot of the literature better. Of course you might not get to play as much on some pieces but usually the parts are fun. My favorite part of playing in an orchestra is being the lone tuba player (or one of two). It might sound rather shallow but I just enjoy that when the audience hears tuba, it's my sound that reaches out and grabs them.

Band. You play more and the parts are awesome.

didn't play any orchestra yet.

I prefer band parts as BBb with a EEb next to me.
Just sounds like an organ!!

It does depend on the standard of the group and the music being played, but generally I prefer the orchestra. Orchestral music tends to be far more substantial and by the 'great' composers. The tuba obviously does not play anywhere near as much in the orchestra, but its role is very different and when used, the effect is that much greater. It is a case of quality over quantity. Also usually being the only tuba is more satisfying - all the tuba tone is ones own. And when not playing, I still enjoy just listening.

Having said that, I do have fun playing with a good band, and appreciate the workout band playing provides, being bass to the ensemble.

I prefer band. I have sat and listened to many a fine orchestra as the tuba player or as part of the trombone section. I prefer to play from start to finish. That is why I love to play marches on the tuba or the euphonium. I am lucky enough to be either the only euphonium or the only tuba. Life is to short to count rests!

The only good regular (not one-time) ensemble I've played in was one college community band. I really prefer the position of the orchestral tubist, but I really would like to wait to reserve my judgement until I play in an orchestra that has both a charisma-filled conductor and, at least, a majority of players who want to be there. So, for me, it does depend on the level of the ensemble.

I don't enjoy orchestral playing until I'm doing it.

Band playing, in a GOOD group with a section of no more than 3, is great. A community band drives me nuts, just in the tuba section. I love the calls "hey, I need a tuba player for this week, my 5th chair is out of town".

Now, a BBB...totally different story, even a less-than-stellar group. Amazing stuff.

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Both. Quite honestly, I love to play anything. Sure I get frustrated now and then, but all in all I like orchestra best probably, at the moment, because I get to sit next to my brother on Bass Trombone. At the moment we're playing 1812. Which is a good bit of fun. The part is a bit more challenging than I remember. The fingering patterns are a bit strange, especially since i'm playing it on my newly acquired BBb York, and have to relearn fingerings. Maybe the first concert will be on CC...

eupher61 wrote:Now, a BBB...totally different story, even a less-than-stellar group. Amazing stuff.

BBB What does that mean?

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tubashaman2 wrote:NEPTUNE!!!! You should know this!

British Brass Band

We would not bother with the third 'B' over here

Actually, I must confess that brass band is my least favourite - less than orchestra, or wind band. Not the tonal variety and I can't stand contests which tend to be the main focus of most brass bands. But everyone to their own thing!

Having played in both, I prefer band. As much as I enjoy listening to orchestral music and going to concerts, I do not wish to be in an ensemble where I would spend 80-90% of my time counting rests. I also do not care for the level of snootiness and arrogance that I have noticed in the orchestras I have come in contact with over the years.

JJ

TUBAD83 wrote:I also do not care for the level of snootiness and arrogance that I have noticed in the orchestras I have come in contact with over the years.

Maybe I have just been lucky, but although such comments regarding orchestras seem common, I have never experienced 'snootiness' in any of the many orchestras I have played. In fact one of the joys of orchestral playing is flirting with an attractive violinist

Jonathan "who often receives compliments on his big tuba from string players"

Neither.

There's more to tuba life than orchestra and concert bands.

I haven't played in any sort of quality orchestra outside of All-County Orchestra in high school, which has a big deal for the strings but they just asked wind players/percussionists to come. I like band a lot, but often I usually play bass trombone or percussion because there's too many tubas.

My all time favorite group to play in is brass choir (not brass band). I just love the overall sound and blend.

Both, as the experiences are often very different.

Klaus

I've never had the pleasure of orchestra on tuba. But I was a member of the chorus for a performance of Beethoven's 9th, so I understand sitting there forever with the tacit. My personality likes to stay involved. So I think even if I was given the opportunity for an orchestra gig, I'd like band better.

Besides, I drink beer, I like to have fun, and I can't stand concerts that are too serious. So probably concert band.

Although I'd really like the opportunity to play with a brass band to see what that's all about. I've been to the UK. I've heard brass bands in concert. I love the sound. I live only a couple hours' drive from the Kansas City Fountain City Brass Band, but have yet to attend a concert due to logistics and scheduling.

Maybe one day. In the meantime, damn, I have fun in band!

Orchestra, I just like a lot of the literature better. Of course you might not get to play as much on some pieces but usually the parts are fun. My favorite part of playing in an orchestra is being the lone tuba player (or one of two). It might sound rather shallow but I just enjoy that when the audience hears tuba, it's my sound that reaches out and grabs them.

DITTO!