Thoughts on Tuba Quartet, as Background Music?

[Z-Tuba Dude]

Anybody have ideas for good "background" music, written for tuba quartet (EETT)? I am looking into a possible gig for a dinner party, and I don't think that "Wabash Cannon Ball" will work in that venue!

I am also wondering whether playing that quietly, for a whole evening might be a bit of a chop buster.

Any thoughts?

[Alex C]

I have played a couple of venues where the tuba/euphonium quartet was background music and I think it was more appropriate than a standard brass quintet. Trumpet sound tends to intrude into conversation, the tuba/euphonium sound can be 'boomy' but will not dominate.

I can remember a Rotary Club Christmas mixer, the opening of a Texas Rangers Store and a reception in a bank lobby, which was the boomy place. The quartet worked wll in all locations, the novelty generated a lot of positive comments from the host and no complaints.

It depends on the acoustics, but unless the locations is given to a lot of echo I do not think you will have to play down. At the same time, you don't want to be honkin' on your instruments, that's not acceptable as background music.

[tubatom91]

Spanish Flea....

[imperialbari]

The Florida euph lady (Gail Roberts (?)) has a CD with her quartet playing some jazzy ballads. Takes lots of control and musicianship, but she makes things sound good.

If your quartet can read vocal notation, some barbershop stuff might work for you.

K