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So you want to buy a tuba. Or you’re thinking of buying a tuba. Or you’re stuck at home crawling out of your skin and now feels like a good time to learn to play the tuba.
Well, we think you should buy a tuba. Here’s why.
Technically, this tuba is a sousaphone, a valved brass instrument with the same tube length and musical range as other tubas. A sousaphone is also the instrument you’d typically find in a marching band because its design makes it easy to carry and play at the same time. The sousaphone wraps around the musician’s body, while the bell (usually detachable) rests on the musician’s shoulder facing forward. Yes, it’s one of the largest brass instruments, but it’s surprisingly easy to hold, and with just three of four valves, most people pick it up pretty easily (both literally and figuratively).
Tubas in general are not very difficult to learn to play, and sousaphones are even easier because they’re more comfortable to play while standing and are not as heavy. The sousaphone’s deep, warm sound blends beautifully with other brass instruments but that’s not to say it isn’t strong enough to stand on its own, which it most certainly is.
Named for conductor John Philip Sousa, the instrument didn’t even exist until the late 19th century, but it eventually became a signature element of the New Orleans brass band tradition. It’s still used in many college bands, jazz bands and even rock and funk recordings today.
Sousaphones come in professional or beginner varieties, but you’re going to get the best sound from a full-sized instrument. A good tuba sousaphone feels substantial and is a unique instrument to pick up, whether you’re looking to expand your musical repertoire, craving a crowd-pleasing instrument, or just want a new hobby to tackle horn on.
