Learning to Play the Tuba – 20 Questions for Rupert Gratz

(02.06.2022)

Rupert Gratz

Rupert Gratz has been playing the tuba since the age of 14. He is a tuba teacher at Musikum Salzburg and leads the International Tuba Days (Instagram: ) and the International Music Days in Großarl (Instagram: )...

I love the beautiful sound of the instrument, the versatility of the tuba, and the different tonal colours and musical possibilities it offers. I also greatly enjoy teaching it to others. My motto is: “Everyone! Learn the tuba! It’s very easy!”


REQUIREMENTS


What is the perfect starting age?

Many may think that you can't start learning the tuba at a young age. However, my many years of experience as an instrumental educator confirm that it’s possible to begin playing the tuba at a very young age. There is also no need for prior knowledge (trombone, baritone, etc.).

If a child is determined to play the tuba, they will find a way to handle the instrument. My youngest students have been five years old. With a children's tuba, a playing stand, and parental support, it is very possible to start at this age if you cater to the specific needs of the children. It can be challenging to spark and maintain a youngster’s interest, but it’s worth it.

Do I need to learn to read music?

It is certainly advisable to become familiar with reading music, and if you start learning it from the beginning, it’s easy to pick up. It’s like learning to write at school: at first, it seems like a lot and maybe even a bit difficult, but over time, you become familiar with all the letters, and writing becomes quicker and smoother. That’s how I see it with music too. Of course, you can learn any instrument by ear. A combination of playing by memory and reading music is definitely the ideal approach.

Are there instruments played in the same way?

With all brass instruments, like the tuba, sound is produced by causing the air column inside the instrument to vibrate with the lips. This principle also applies to instruments such as the trumpet, horn, trombone, etc.

However, each of these instruments requires a specific embouchure technique. Tuba is played with a different embouchure compared to, for example, the horn. If you want to learn the tuba, you should always seek instruction from a teacher who also plays the tuba. Directly related instruments to the tuba include the helicon or the sousaphone. They differ in shape but are generally played by tubists.

What physical conditions are advantageous?

Even though the instrument is large, the smallest person can produce beautiful tones on the tuba. As mentioned before, you can start playing the tuba at primary school age.

With the right children's instruments and useful accessories (e.g. a tuba playing stand where the instrument rests), no muscle strength is required to hold the large and heavy instrument. It stands on the stand and only needs to be balanced so that it doesn’t fall over. The student only needs to be able to make their lips vibrate, press the valves with their fingers, and blow air into the tuba for several seconds.

How do you know if you’re ready for the instrument?

I recommend simply trying a taster session. For this, you should find an experienced tuba teacher, even if the lessons aren’t close by. After that, it would be appropriate to test an instrument of the right size.

Some guiding questions for an initial assessment:

  • Can I hold long notes right away?
  • How does it feel when I play the tuba?
  • Do I feel comfortable?
  • Does the instrument suit me and my personality?
  • Can I place my fingers on the valves and operate them?
  • Do I have a sense of rhythm?
  • Do I have time to practise?
  • Can I fit practising into my daily routine?

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FINANCIALS


How much does the instrument cost?

The price range for tubas varies due to their complex production and precision components like valves, from €1,400 to approximately €20,000. High-quality instruments (e.g., Melton or B&S tubas) do not lose value over time and, with proper care, can be resold very well.

Some retailers also offer the option of leasing or renting a tuba – the monthly rate is between €60 and €140. It’s also advisable to talk to the local brass band. They often provide an instrument free of charge or for a small fee and are happy to welcome new members to the group.

Are there any additional costs?

You’ll need a tuba case or gigbag for transporting the instrument, as well as a mouthpiece, tuba stand, sheet music, music stand, metronome, tuner, carrying strap, valve oil (for regularly oiling the valves), tuning slide grease (for greasing the slides and curves), and a certain budget for lessons and continuing education.

How labour-intensive is the maintenance?

As always: taking care of your belongings makes them last longer! The valves should be oiled several times a week. This only takes a moment and is easy to learn. My instrument maker even recommends using an internal oil after each play to prevent deposits from forming inside the tuba and to protect the metal from saliva, as well as wiping the surface with a soft cloth.

Every few months, the tuba should be rinsed with clear water in the shower to remove deposits. About once a year, you should have a valve service done by a professional, similar to a car service.

How is the instrument transported?

The tuba is transported either in a bag or a case. The case provides better protection, but combined with the large tuba, it adds a significant amount of weight. The bag (gigbag) is compact; there’s a large selection to choose from. For the right size, you should seek advice from a specialist retailer.

If you travel by plane, you’ll need a special case or will need to book an additional seat. Bonus: You get a second meal because you have two seats! :-)


Introductory sheet music


PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT


Can you teach yourself the instrument?

Can’t you teach yourself almost anything? Why is it wise not to take shortcuts here? Teachers explain and show how things work correctly – that’s more sustainable than having to figure everything out yourself. Especially when it comes to breathing, posture, and the position of the jaw and lips, mistakes can easily creep in.

The best combination is: lessons – learning from the best – and staying curious. A clear goal and perseverance guarantee success! You should take great care in finding a good teacher.

How do you select appropriate practice material?

It always depends on the projects the students are currently working on. If they are just starting, I use individual exercises tailored to the person. In recent years, more and more new literature for tuba lessons has become available, such as the beginner's book Tuba Fuchs. Since children often have different learning styles, teachers should be equipped with a wide range of methods.

How can you practise without disturbing others?

There are various mutes available for the tuba, for instance, from Johann Schlipfinger. These are also popular with orchestral musicians who use them to practise in hotels. These mutes are excellent for significantly reducing the volume, and you can still hear everything while playing.

I personally also enjoy practising outdoors. I find a quiet spot and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Essentially, when practising, you should feel like you aren’t disturbing anyone. It just feels better that way.

What are the different playing techniques?

With the right technique, you can play on a tuba down to the subcontra range, meaning lower than the lowest note on a piano! This is difficult with other instruments. In general, you can play a very wide range on the tuba (two to five octaves). Modern compositions often include multiphonics and mouth percussion. Want an example? Here you go:

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When can you expect to see results?

Progress is generally very fast. Often, students manage to produce beautiful sounds during their very first lesson, which motivates them to keep going. The initial goal is to produce different tones and maintain steady pitch. This usually works after just a few weeks. Gradually, the valves are incorporated into the exercises. Simpler songs like "Au clair de la lune," "Ringel, Ringel, Reihe," or "Hänsel and Gretel" are played within the first few months.


AND THEN...


What are popular pieces for the first performance?

In the beginning, students enjoy playing pieces they already know, whether they are young or adult learners. These include children's songs or songs that match the season. Christmas carols are especially popular, with some of my students wanting to play them all year round.

There are numerous arrangements for tuba and piano, as well as simpler pieces for tuba and piano for lessons, such as a beautiful collection by Joe Pinkl: Jammin' with Joe. Browsing for new sheet music at a music store or online is always worth it. There's always something new to discover.

What are the classics and your favourite piece?

I’ve always been inspired by pieces that seemed unplayable at first glance. For example, Capriccio by Krzysztof Penderecki, "Winter" from The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi, arranged for tuba, or a work by the Portuguese composer Jorge Salgueiro, Concerto for Tuba—an incredibly challenging piece with a range of five octaves. In March 2022, I performed this piece with the Pinzgau Clarinet Choir – a world premiere in that ensemble.

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Here are a few classics:

What piece makes you fall in love with the instrument?

How virtuosic the tuba can be played is showcased in this video by the Norwegian tubist Øystein Baadsvik – playing the famous Czárdás by Vittorio Monti arranged for tuba.

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A video of my tuba student Lilli – back in 2017, when she was nine, she performed a piece that became a viral hit, amassing over 1 million views in a short time.

How can you make music with others?

Brass classes are becoming increasingly popular. Children in their second or third year of school learn as part of a class and also receive individual lessons from their main instrument teacher. This encourages bonding from the start and helps develop children's social skills.

There are also youth orchestras, brass bands, and mixed ensembles in various musical styles, such as traditional folk music – in "Tanzlmusi," where the tuba plays an accompanying role. You can play in a tuba ensemble (from duos or trios to octets). Of course, since the Romantic period, the tuba has been a key part of the classical symphony orchestra. The possibilities are almost endless, and playing in a group is simply more fun.

What role does the instrument play in ensembles?

The tuba serves various functions. One of the most important roles is accompaniment. It often works with other bass instruments to form the musical foundation. In chorales, the tuba lays down a gentle sound carpet for the other voices to rest upon.

In folk music, it plays short, punchy notes, providing the rhythm and making sure everything grooves. In a tuba ensemble, there are different roles: the interplay between melody and accompaniment is incredibly fascinating!

Are there any stereotypes about the instrument and its players?

Yes, of course, there are plenty of stereotypes. Especially in brass bands, it used to be said: “If you can’t play anything else, then just play the tuba.” Tuba players were thought to be old, white-haired men with big bellies. Even at university, people didn’t realise that you could study tuba. This questionable reputation has long since passed.

The tuba has developed into a cult instrument. Whereas 20 years ago children would typically choose trumpet, clarinet, flute, or drums, this trend has changed. Children are fascinated by the size of the instrument and its beautiful sound. There’s a lot of work for a tuba teacher!

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