![]() ![]() ![]() The typical lowest standard note for tuba is up a 3rd at D1 – still a massively low note, to be sure. The BBb tuba can also go this low, but rather coarsely, and using this massive instrument has its drawbacks orchestrally. The lowest dependable instrument of the three is the contrabassoon, with a low note of Bb2 (the lowest Bb on the piano). Less often, they will play a solo, or double a featured line with other instruments (typically basses and/or cellos).įirst and most practical of comparisons is range. All three are used most commonly for the bottom note of a harmony or pattern, or to play a bass line. So here are our three deliciously colorful suspects at their simplest description: bass clarinet and contrabassoon as octave extensions of their predominant wind section counterparts and tuba as a member of its own family, one out of a pack of five options (F, Eb, CC, BBb, or Bb tenor). This is the kind of tip I love sharing – a comparative look at instruments of similar range and utility, but quite different tone and technique – followed by an excerpt of a favorite moment from one of my own works. Orchestrators should know the difference between tuba, contrabassoon, and bass clarinet timbre, and score according to each instrument’s strength and character.
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