Arranging and Orchestration Concepts !! 127Example 6-27 French horn range: staff indicates where the parts are written.Tuba in C
The tuba is the lowest-pitched brass instrument. (In symphony orchestras,
some tubas are pitched in double B-flat or E-flat.)
The tuba and the bass trombone blend well playing in unison. The tuba
adds a distinctive low sound to an orchestra or small group, such as in
Dixieland or band music. It also blends well playing the lowest note of a
trombone section. In this scenario, the bass trombone is usually written
more like a tenor trombone part.
Tubas are pitched in various keys. Many have four or more valves,
which help to achieve better intonation.
The tuba is not often used as a solo instrument. An exception is in the
composition ‘‘Tubby the Tuba,’’ a popular children’s piece written by
George Kleinsinger for symphony orchestra. Jazz tubists are rare.
Range:The modern C tuba is a nontransposing instrument. Parts are
written in the bass clef. The lowest note is F, below the bass clef, and the
highest note is G, above the bass clef. Professional tubists can play higher.
Tubas are manufactured in different keys, such as tuba in B-flat (see exam-
ple 6-28).
Example 6-28 Tuba range.Brass Combinations for the Studio
Budget is a consideration when choosing a brass instrumental combina-
tion. With a modest budget, two trumpets, one tenor trombone, and a bass
trombone will sound full if scored properly. If an assignment requires a
small orchestra, try to include one or two French horns. No other instru-
ment can produce the same sonority.
With budget restrictions, the tuba is usually the last instrument to be
added. Most often, a tubist is hired because an arrangement specifically
needs that sound, such as a Dixieland piece. (A tuba will not replace the
sound of a double bass in a standard orchestral setting.)