Instrument Quiz

Tuba

With a big, deep low sound, you hold everyone up firmly from below.

Ring outHold up the restBetter together

The tuba is a large instrument that plays the lowest notes in the brass section. You hold it hugged against you to play, and its thick sound keeps going far below, like the floor under the whole ensemble. You have plenty of voice and presence, but you'd rather support everyone than step forward yourself.

The tuba doesn't play the melody very often. But when its low notes join in, the whole ensemble sounds fuller and more settled. When a big group is on the move, you're the one setting out the seats or matching your pace to whoever's falling behind, rather than leading at the front.

There aren't many pieces for solo tuba, either. You can bring out your strength when there are lots of people around, but during long stretches of working alone, it's easy to lose sight of what you're doing it for. Decide on one answer to “Who is this for?” even in your time alone, and it becomes easier to keep going.

Strengths

In group work, you can lay the groundwork so everyone can move easily
You can pass on what needs saying clearly, in a voice everyone can hear
Even in a behind-the-scenes role, you keep going at the same strength to the end

Where you may stumble

You put the group's needs ahead of what you want to do, and push yourself to the back of the line
On days with few people around, it's harder to bring your usual strength
When you show concern in a loud voice, it can sound strong to the other person

Sounds familiar, Tuba?

At gatherings, you naturally end up carrying the bags or cleaning up
Somehow, you've been put in charge of scheduling for big get-togethers
Your laugh is deep and loud, and people know it's you from far away

Where you shine

Long-running events with lots of people, heavy work that needs many hands, moments when everyone needs to move in step.

Tips for “Tuba”

Once in a while, say one thing you'd like to do first
On days alone, set just one goal that's smaller than usual
Before you call out to someone, take a second to notice how close they are

Matches

See every match in the Instrument Quiz compatibility chart →

Easy together

Trumpet — In a concert band, the Tuba's low notes hold up the Trumpet's high melody from below. The role that steps forward and the role that builds the foundation divide naturally.

Easy together

Flute — In a concert band, the Flute plays high and the Tuba plays low, covering the top and bottom of the range. Sounds far apart widen the whole band's sound.

May clash

Harp — The Harp's sound is delicate and hard to hear amid loud sounds. When the Tuba plays in its usual way, it can easily cover up the Harp's fine resonance.