F:
It is easier to play higher notes, but it lacks the lower register. It is used to add a tenor sound to the tuba section, and is used in orchestral settings, in which tubas are usually solo instruments. Used for solo and ensemble environments and smaller groups. It's is easier to switch to F when starting on CC.
Eb:
Same as the F, but is used in symphonic settings like the BBb, but just not for the same purpose, as it is often used to add a tenor sound. When starting on the BBb horn, it is easiest to switch to Eb.
CC:
A must have for college, because many directors still think of BBb as lower quality and will only let you use a CC, and it's mainly used for large settings and orchestral purposes. It's easier for orchestral music because most orchestrial music is in a sharp key and the fingering changes are easier.
BBb:
It's the largest of the 4 types, it's like the CC in the fact that it's used for large settings, but unlike the CC, the BBb is used in concert and symphonic settings because the music is generally in a flat key. Depending on the quality of the horn and the player's skill, it has the largest, most 3- Dimensional and rich sound of the four.
So I want to know down the road, which type would be most beneficial to have learned. (Other than BBb because I already know that one, and I'm trying to expand my knowledge!)
Here are the main determining factors in my quest to find the right tuba:
I'm possibly going to join a large youth orchestra. So basically a symphony orchestra. I think CC would be best for this because it is orchestral music which is easier on a CC or F, but it's large and the F probably wouldn't cut it.
The music I play for auditions, band, and solos usually doesn't have any really low notes. (A below the staff through B above the staff is the usual range.) So F's and Eb's lack of the lower register probably wouldn't be a huge issue except for long tones or in super boring band music when I play it down an octave during rehearsal, but I play a BBb at school.
My large symphony needs are covered by my King 2341, but I have some trouble on solos and auditions with the high notes and an F or Eb would help that.
I don't necessarily care how hard it would be to learn a new type of tuba if it will be beneficial in my career.
I was advised to avoid Rot. valve tubas because the keys bounce after they return to their normal positions. If there is a Rotary valve tuba that eliminates this or something you can do to fix it, like a kit, technique, D.I.Y method, or something a shop does, then Rotaries would be fine.
I don't have a body that's suited for the tuba. I'm on the small side at about 5'1"
I have around 3 liters of lung capacity.
I don't have great sound quality partially due to my small size, but I'm still growing.
I have already learned to open my throat. I drop my jaw as much as I physically can, lower my tongue, and open the exit between my teeth as much as I can while still buzzing.
I exercise my diaphragm and keep my abdomen firm when I play just as my EX-Band Director instructed me, but I find it hard to keep a consistent sound and air steam while doing this. I don't know, maybe I'm just flexing my abs!
I have tiny hands, so I cant play tubas with large spacing between the valves or keys that efficiently. Even on my King 2341, the space between the thumb loop and the valves is so large for me that I can even put my fingers on the valves correctly!! Instead of my fingertips being placed on the tops of the finger buttons with my fingers curved, my fingers go straight out with my fingertips being flat on the buttons. My whole fingerprint is touching the button instead of just the very ends.
If any of the types would help me improve or mask this, that would be a big +++!
So basically, which type would best fit my needs and be most beneficial down the road? And if there are any tubas you recommend please tell me.
) and check out smallish/4/4 bass tubas. Though the price is going up the best deal out there new still is the Cerveny 653/5- rotary but so easy to play, big fat sound, great low register, good intonation,... You might also look for used 321 Eb's.
). A nice euph will also be cheaper than a nice bass tuba.
