Weill Threepenny Opera Suite

[Wyvern]

I have just got a gig to play the Weill Threepenny Opera Suite. I have never heard the work, or seen the part. Can anyone tell me what the tuba part is like? Best to take the F, or CC? If anyone has a copy of the part they would send me to see, that would be great

Thanks!

[Michael Grant]

I wouldn't worry about the tuba part as far as technique, range, etc. The part is not challenging. The piece (IMHO) is great and I wish I had the opportunity to play it. I have performed the brass ensemble version from the PJBE. Much more challenging tuba part. I would recommend acquiring the Chicago Pro Musica recording of the work. In addition to the Weill, there are excellent recordings of Varese, Martinu and Bowles. Quite possibly my all time favorite recording. Learn the recording and there should be no surprises during rehearsals and the gig. I'm jealous. I hope you enjoy the work.

[Chuck Jackson]

John,

I played this piece ALOT during my playing career and found it works best on F. The sound of the F doesn't over power the small group you play with and it makes the range a breeze. Be aware that you are doubled IN THE SAME OCTAVE by the trombone alot of the time, this makes the F preferable, to me anyway, so as to not further overpower the small cafe band instrumentation.

Oddly enough, the tuba wasn't used in the original opera (I've conducted the opera 3 times). Otto Klemperer asked Weill to extract a suite using the standard German Dance Hall Band instrumentation. It was premiered by the Kroll Opera Orchestra.

A great piece and ALOT of fun to play. Enjoy it!!!!

Chuck"who just located a copy of the part and encourages Johnathon to look at the "Cannon Song" which is deceptively simple on paper, but a tricky one to play."Jackson