I like playing the tuba

[Tubajug]

At the start of this school year I made a goal to play my tuba every day. I wanted to be able to tell my students (I teach 5th grade beginning band) that yes, I play my instrument every day. So far, I've only missed one day each month (five days total). In addition to the predictable benefits of increased endurance, etc, I've rediscovered just how much I like playing the tuba.

Sometimes it's a full-on practice session, and sometimes it's a few quick scales before bed, just to say I played that day, but I've really enjoyed just PLAYING my instrument each day.

I highly recommend it!

[Grumpikins]

I totally agree. Although, I dont get every day. I try to hit at least 3 or 4 a week. After not playing for about 15 years, playing my tuba(s) is a real joy! I'm so glad I didnt sell them.

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[sweaty]

It really is fun.

I taught 5th and 6th graders for 30 years. It's an important job. Playing along with them is important because "a picture is worth a thousand words". You're demonstrating good sound, steady pitch, rhythm, tonguing and slurring, and full breaths. I would also play trumpet along with them. I thought those two instruments, even in a big group, had a different enough sound from the group that they could hear me easily. When you show off technical skills way beyond their level, it shows them possibilities and, hopefully, a desire to progress. And it gives you "street cred".

[Mary Ann]

I like playing my instruments but with the exception of violin, for me, it's all about playing with others. So the tuba doesn't get played by itself unless I have music I need to learn. Playing with others, from duets on up to full sized ensembles, is where it's at for me and tuba.
Violin has such a long history that it is a form of meditation to play it, and that is a completely different mindset from playing with others.

[Tubajug]

I agree, @Mary Ann . I do prefer to play tuba with others, but even just playing it each day reminded me of how much I like the sound, the feel, etc. of playing my instrument.

I am of the opinion that the tuba was created as an ensemble instrument and is at its best in a group. I was just never a fan of playing tuba solos. My favorite ones were always stolen from other instruments.

[bloke]

He's not a green horn,
He blows a mean horn,
A must be seen horn,
Oh he's a wiz !

[Sousaswag]

I say the same thing to my kids. I try to get on the horn for an hour after school. If not to practice, just to play for some fun. It’s a great example for young musicians!

[arpthark]

He's not a green horn,
He blows a mean horn,
A must be seen horn,
Oh he's a wiz !

But you have to admit, he's a funny looking boob-ah.

[bloke]

He's not a green horn,
He blows a mean horn,
A must be seen horn,
Oh he's a wiz !

But you have to admit, he's a funny looking boob-ah.

not so much...
(Particularly at this point in my life) I'd probably be willing to trade looks with him.

[prairieboy1]

I agree, @Mary Ann . I do prefer to play tuba with others, but even just playing it each day reminded me of how much I like the sound, the feel, etc. of playing my instrument.

I am of the opinion that the tuba was created as an ensemble instrument and is at its best in a group. I was just never a fan of playing tuba solos. My favorite ones were always stolen from other instruments.

AMEN!!

[MikeS]

He's not a green horn,
He blows a mean horn,
A must be seen horn,
Oh he's a wiz !

But you have to admit, he's a funny looking boob-ah.

But then again, “He’s getting wealthy strong and hearty, thanks to plenty strong Bacardi.”

[humBell]

I think i agree with most of these sentiments, but at the moment i'm too lazy to pick and choose, let alone add any of my own.

Keep up the good work playing!

[Charlie C Chowder]

Mary Anne statement about mind set is very important. I come to music with a need. A need for what depends on where my head is at the time. It usually needs to unwind. I do not like having to prep music to play with others but like to jam with others. Prepping music is work. Like long tones it need to be done but it does not let me just play. I just want to play, make noise, release myself. I play the instruments I do because they allow me to do this. I started on trombone but was and still am too short to reach seventh position. But when I was switch to the Sousaphone setting on a sousaphone chair, I could play every note. Well almost two octaves. It was a new world. It gave me a full voice. So I love playing my tuba (and other toys) all by myself just like I love to hum in the car, or sing in the shower whatever song or music that wants to come out.
I tell everybody who is just starting an instrument to close the books after you have practice and just play what ever you want for fifteen minuets. Nobody says "I practice _________" . We say "I Play _________".

"Summer Time" is a nice solo for any instrument and easy to do variations on.

CCC