tu-tu-ku vs. tu-ku-tu

[MaryAnn]

Linguistically interesting.

When I sit here and make a K and G sound, I use more air to get the aspiration on the K, that is, I "blow harder." Hence I would expect the G sound to make it easier to control the tone. With the D and the T, I definitely use more "meat" of the tip of my tongue on the roof of my mouth for the D sound; with the T sound it is only the very tip of the tongue, which I also would expect to create some differences in how a tuba would respond, between the two of them.

MA

[SRanney]

Personally, I like to think..."diggida" because the softer articulation...

Diggida-dig it, man.

When I have the urge to triple tongue these days, that's what I do.

SR

[skinnytuba]

I would suggest experimenting between the du/tu sounds, as well as the gu/ku sounds to find which one works best for you. Everyone's mouth is set up differently, hence no set vowel works for all of us.

I would avoid the "toh" sound, though, especially if you are a vocalist and know how to make a true vocalised closed "o" sound (as in the word "home"). Making a true vocalised "o" actually compresses the pharynx, and restricts airflow. Working on saying a pure "u" (pronounced "oo") vowel while playing has greatly improved my sound, and you should find the best open vowel for yourself. This is also another great reason to learn to sing! If you need help with your vowels, find a vocalist or a good vocal teacher and they can help you. A good vowel will greatly improve your sound!