Should I continue playing tuba or just move on?!
Question: I have been playing tuba since the 6th grade and there were times where I wanted to quit, and I'm glad I didn't but it seems that this times seem to be increasing in number. I consider myself a good tubaist I can play Pedal Bb all the way up to above the staff D on a BBb Tuba, Multiphonics, learning treble, and I'm beginning to learn how to double tongue but it seems like its all in vein. The tuba parts aren't challenging at all, I made All region this year (couldn't go to all state because of transportation problems) and the all region songs weren't that challenging to me.
I like to play a lot of video game music like LoZ, Chrono Cross, Mario, and I like to play slow, emotionally moving pieces and it seems that, for the most part, I don't ever get to play. Should I keep playing tuba. If I stop playing tuba, I might play clarinet like my mom did.
(I want to be a musician and I plan on doing video game music and/or being in a orchestra.)
Answers: I have been playing tuba since the 6th grade and there were times where I wanted to quit, and I'm glad I didn't but it seems that this times seem to be increasing in number. I consider myself a good tubaist I can play Pedal Bb all the way up to above the staff D on a BBb Tuba, Multiphonics, learning treble, and I'm beginning to learn how to double tongue but it seems like its all in vein. The tuba parts aren't challenging at all, I made All region this year (couldn't go to all state because of transportation problems) and the all region songs weren't that challenging to me.
I like to play a lot of video game music like LoZ, Chrono Cross, Mario, and I like to play slow, emotionally moving pieces and it seems that, for the most part, I don't ever get to play. Should I keep playing tuba. If I stop playing tuba, I might play clarinet like my mom did.
(I want to be a musician and I plan on doing video game music and/or being in a orchestra.)
Some of your above responders, have suggested various string instruments; which may very well be a good change for you.
But since you have already become competent on a brass instrument, why don't you consider one that plays a more prominent orchestral role, and often has a solo part.
Have you ever considered the French Horn? If you have the necessary lung capacity to play the Tube, you would probably have the necessary wherewithal to play it.
Admittedly, they present a considerable challenge to master; but they have been very popular with many of the great composers; and much music has been written for them, including even a few respectable concertos.
Just a thought, but one I think worthy of your consideration. Whatever you decide, best of luck,
Alberich
try a diffrent instrument. the same thing happened to me when i played cello, but i switched to violin. i am much happier.
Why would you stop playing it if you're obviously very talented at it and want to get better?
Video games will get you no where, plus you'd throw away your tuba talent, something a lot of people wish they had.
You can play video games and the tuba, there's nothing stopping you.
You could also try doing clarinet and tuba, it'd be fun and worth the challenge.
Keep playing and go to any clinics you can go to,because my brother plays tuba and he got scholarships for being really good at it.So yeahh,now he's in college training to be a band director :]
Time to switch instruments. Pick something you like that takes the lead : violin , trumpet, cello , flute etc..
Perhaps it is time to start learning the piano. It is a great instrument for learning theory and you get to play everything by yourself !
The Clarinet is a good choice. Lots of music to play in jazz, classical and pop.
i play tuba and i find that its nice to be able to switch around. I started when i was in 5th Grade and now can play 12 instruments with relative proficiency. As for video game music, ive done some of my own arrangements for tuba and brass quintet, and they can be challenging. i can send some to you if you would like.
most of all, just do what feels right to you
You can quit when you learn that a tuba:
1. doesn't sing.
2. has a greater repertoire than just themes from video games!
Try playing some concertos.
Edit: I agree with Alberich. Though that does NOT mean you can quit tuba just because you find it tedious. You can get a PhD in tuba performance. It's not that simple.
Best of Luck!
~Ravelofiev