If you're new to the wonderful world of brass instruments, you might be wondering what really separates the bass trombone and the tuba. At first glance, both are pretty hefty brass instruments that make low, deep sounds. Are they really so different? Well, dig a little deeper and you'll discover there are a wealth of differences between the two instruments.
Before we dive in properly, it's worth pointing out that there are many different types of trombones and tubas out there. These instruments have lots of variations, every specific type of trombone and tuba has its own common features that classify it as such.
Read on to find out more about the differences in:
What’s The Difference Between Bass Trombone And Tuba?
One of the first things you'll notice when you look at a tuba is that it's absolutely massive - way bigger than a bass trombone. That in itself usually makes a tuba pretty easy to spot!
The length of tubing on a tuba may appear shorter than on a bass trombone at first glance, but that's because of the way it's arranged. Take a close look at any tuba and you'll notice that the tubing loops around and bends in on itself in a way that no other brass instrument does.
If you were to stretch that tubing out and lay it next to an outstretched, tuba the trombone is almost double the length!
Do Bass Trombones Sound Better Than Tubas?
Well, this is of course a matter of opinion, and far be it from us to open a can of worms here! To keep it very simple, trombones produce a brighter sound than tubas, making them better suited for playing melodies. Tubas, meanwhile, are great for those low, deep notes.
The trombone can also make a wider range of sounds because of its smaller mouthpiece, while the tuba's larger mouthpiece produces a much richer, deeper sound.
Both instruments are common in orchestras and ensembles but tend to play very different roles. Trombones typically lend themselves well to solos, while tubas will help carry the bass line of a piece. Do with that information what you will.
Are Bass Trombones Harder To Play Than Tubas?
Tubas are much harder to play than trombones. In fact, the tuba is largely considered to be the trickiest brass instrument to get to grips with because of its size, complexity, and the amount of air required from you to play it properly.
Conversely, the trombone is actually one of the easier brass instruments to get your first sounds on and start playing properly. The pBuzz is a fantastic starter instrument for younger children looking to make their first sound, while the pBone Mini and pBone are great options for newcomers and students alike.
Are Bass Trombones Cheaper Than Tubas?
You won't be shocked to learn that the much larger metal instrument is more expensive than the smaller one. Most traditional brass tubas tend to start at around £800, and there aren't really any cheaper alternatives for the instrument just yet. Meanwhile, trombones start at around £250, and there are even cheaper plastic options such as the pBone.
What Style Of Music do Bass Trombones and Tubas Play?
The tuba is most at home as the driving bass behind marching band music and classical music. You may also see it used in jazz groups, but not that often.
The trombone has a much more versatile sound which means it can slot in almost anywhere. You'll find it in jazz groups, orchestras, marching bands, pop and rock ensembles, and plenty more. Consider where you want your brass instrument to take you before you make a decision, as the trombone might just be a better option if you want something with a little more variety behind it.
Find Out More about Brass Instruments
Feel free to browse through our comprehensive learning guide, or take a look at the full range of plastic brass pInstruments to see if there might be a better fit for you. And if you still feel you need to do a little more research, check out the following articles:
How Long Does It Take To Learn A Brass Instrument?
After seven years writing about video games, Ewan made the jump to the music instrument industry to stop his family asking when he was going to get a real job. Mostly, though, he adores music and is passionate about its vital role throughout life - especially in education. He also played guitar in several bands with deeply embarrassing names that won't be revealed here. With a degree in journalism from an NCTJ-accredited university under his belt, Ewan uses everything he learned as a writer over the last decade to help answer any questions you might have about pBone Music in an accessible (and hopefully entertaining) way. Because if you can write 1,000 words on SSDs and ray-tracing, you can explain why plastic instruments are accessible, sustainable, and fun.
