Ten helpful hints for the tuba and euphonium

Both the tuba and the euphonium are important members in any musicial ensemble.
Below are ten tips to help your musical growth on either the tuba or euphonium.

1. The student and music director should work together to make the music exciting, meaningful and challenging. Practice more than just your ensemble music. Make solos, etudes, and other technical material such as scales a daily part of your practice time.

2. A beautiful sound is the most important trait of a good tuba or euphonium player. Listen to recordings of professional performers for inspiration.

3. Air is fuel for a brass instrument. Our instruments need plenty. Blow! Use an "oh" syllable when you inhale to keep the throat open.

4. Articulate (tongue) the music with a syllable such as "toh" or "doh" for tuba and "tah" or "dah" for the euphonium. This will give you a clean and clear attack every time!

5. Buzzing your mouthpiece away from the instrument will strengthen the lips, relax the breathing, and improve your flexbilty. Buzz scales, tunes, and even your music.

6. Take private lessons for more individual help. Learn from an expert!

7. Discipline yourself to a set a specific amount of practice time each day. "make time" instead of practicing when you have time!

8. Take responsibility for your instrument, mouthpiece, and case. Treat it with respect and keep it clean!

9. Three (3) areas of maintenance are needed: a) oil your valves once a day b) grease the slides once a month with a good, thick, slide grease. C) bathe your horn once a year, using a garden hose and a mild detergent. Dry with soft cloths.

10. Join T.U.B.A.! Be a member of the organization for your instrument. Join in the fun!