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While an Eb tuba would probably improve clarity above the staff, it would make the low register (the register you will spend more time on in a band setting) more difficult.

What model tuba are you playing now? What mouthpiece? Are you thinking about becoming a music teacher or performer when you get older?

Things to think about.

Try an Rudy Meinl HB2 mouthpeice. You can get it from Lee Stofer. He is a super guy!

http://tubameister.com/

The RM has a pretty small cup. And seems to sound good on the VMI horns

If you are using a MPC that is too large for your embrischure, pardon the spelling its 230 in the morning, It will make the higher register more difficult to hit.

I also recommend a Bach 18 or something that is close to it.

The best way to train your lip is to do arpegio type execises skipping more notes as your lip becomes stronger. There are a lot of books out there to help you. If you can;t find one for tuba, by a trumpet book and transpose.

When my chops are in shape, I can go 5 octaves on a Bb scale starting at the pedal Bb And, hit any note in the range at will.

I remember that I used to have trouble in my middle school years getting above that note. Maybe something to do with some peoples faces at that age. Hope this helps

Oh, I also do not recommend going to an Eb horn. MOre time and the right practice WILL fix this for you.

I have a silver Besson 981 Eb Tuba with case that I am considering selling. PM me know if anyone is interested. They are $6,200 new I'm asking $5,300.