How to Play the Tuba

Summary: The oompah sound of the tuba is probably one of the most distinctive things this low-register brass giant has going for it. Often found in orchestral settings, marching bands and Bavarian beer festivals, the tuba is a large valve instrument that produces deep, smooth notes and tones. Whether it’s creating a pulsing bass line for accompaniment, or actually playing the lead melody in a song, the tuba’s sound is hard to miss. And it takes a special kind of person to play this beast of an instrument. Tubas are not known to impart to their owners any abilities to look cool or “rock out.” Rather the opposite—tuba players are often stigmatized for choosing something less popular than, say, the mighty, ubiquitous three or four: guitar, drums, bass and keyboard.

Well, fret not, brassy valve disciples. In these free music lessons on video, learn how to tame that wild, valorous instrument that is the tuba. Our expert will guide you through some of the basic steps you have to take to get started, including how to identify the parts of the tuba, oil the valves, form a proper embouchure, play your first note, and change pitch. Once you think you’ve trained hard enough on the fundamentals, you’re in for a treat. The last lesson is how to play the Munster’s theme song, an essential tune for any tuba player’s repertoire. Blow hard and make ‘em proud.