Setting Up for Success!
Assembly
Disassembly
To disassemble the tuba, first drain any water from the instrument through the water keys like the one shown above. Then, simply remove the mouthpiece and place the tuba back in the case. Place the mouthpiece in the slot made for it in the case. This is important because a mouthpiece loose inside the case can damage the instrument. Never place any loose objects like method books inside the case with the instrument, as they may cause damage.
Posture
Sit with your back straight. The back should be in the same shape it would be if you were standing up straight.The feet can be flat on the floor or pulled back under the chair as long as the knees are lower than the level of the hips.
Once proper posture is established, the tuba should be brought to the player. The player should not change his or her body shape to adjust to the tuba. |
Beware of common posture problems like hunching forward or leaning back in the chair. If the mouthpiece is too high or low for the player, rest it on a tuba stand to lower it or put some kind of spacer like a folded towel on the lap to raise it.
Hand Position
Right Hand Position (Top Valves)
The finger tips of the right hand should be placed on the valve buttons with the fingers gently and naturally curved. |
Right Hand Position (Front Valves)
As with the front valves, the fingers should be gently and naturally curved with the finger tips on the keys. Smaller hands will curve less. |
Beware of common hand position problems like fingers stretched too far over the valves, incorrect fingers pressing the valves, or gripping the mouthpiece or lead pipe with the left hand.
Tuba pages site map: What Is a Tuba | Setting Up for Success | Making a Sound | Tuba Positions | The Overtone Series | Tuba Intonation | Practice | Buying a Tuba | Caring for the Tuba | Introducing Students to the Tuba | Bibliography & Image Sources | About