Posted by tuba lit by Dave Z. on March 12, 2004 at 16:12:08:
In Reply to: Re: Tuba Literature posted by Mike on March 11, 2004 at 23:48:05:
Recommended Literature for Contrabass Tuba
The lists that follow are made up of music that I find to be particularly effective for study on the CC or BBb tuba. While the breadth of tuba literature has expanded greatly, there remains a strong central body of literature that is very effective on CC and BBb. This list is neither definitive nor exhaustive; these are pieces that have been especially useful in my studio and it is my hope that they may someday be effective for you as well!
I have broken the pieces into several different categories: Original Works for Tuba Alone, Original Works for Tuba and Tape, Original Works for Tuba and Piano, Original Works for Tuba with Band and/or Orchestra, Transcriptions for Tuba, and Original Works for Tuba in a Chamber Music Setting.
Here are the guidelines used concerning the prescribed levels of difficulty:
Level 1- Relatively Easy
While “relatively easy” is a pretty subjective descriptor, the intent here is to list pieces that might be attainable by an amateur player, a talented high school player or a typical first or second year college student. Generally, the music in this category will not go above middle C or below the F four ledger lines below the staff. The technical challenges in these pieces are not extraordinary and should be overcome by due diligence on the part of the player. From a musical standpoint, pieces in this category generally will not be too esoteric and will be straightforward enough for a developing player to understand.
Titles with an asterisk (*) will present a greater challenge and could have easily been categorized at the next level.
Level 2- Moderately Difficult
Music in this category will likely present some type of challenge for the typical player. While some of the challenges will relate to the technical problems posed in the piece, others will lie in deciphering some of the inherent musical problems (complex harmonic language, apparent lack of a discernable tune, etc.). Music under this heading will generally have a range extending from the Eb four ledger lines below the staff to the F above middle C, but will have a tessitura that stays between the C below the staff and middle C. These are pieces that would be great study material for any serious student of the tuba.
Titles with an asterisk (*) will present a greater challenge and could have easily been categorized at the next level.
Level 3- Very Difficult
Solos in this section are, just as the heading states, really quite difficult to pull off on any instrument. The technical and musical requirements are daunting for a large instrument. Some of the titles listed in this category are fairly standard repertoire for the Bass Tuba, but have found their way on to this list because of their difficulty to perform on the Contrabass Tuba. It is a certainty that some of these tunes were composed with the lighter and more nimble Bass Tuba in mind but it is my belief that the study of these works on Contrabass Tuba will have a beneficial effect on the player’s approach to the big horn.
I. Tuba Alone
Level 1
Composer Title Comments
Arnold, Malcolm Fantasy for Tuba* This is a great piece for working on establishing distinct characters for different sections of music. Excluding about four awkwardly difficult measures, this is a very playable work for a young student and a good introduction to the unaccompanied literature.
Gallagher, Jack Sonata Breve* The four movements of this brief work allow the player to stretch out in different directions while staying in the context of traditional harmonic and melodic language. The first movement presents the toughest musical problems. The following three movements are pretty straight ahead, with the exception of some easily decipherable multi-meter measures in the finale.
Hartley, Walter Suite for Unaccompanied Tuba This four-movement work is a great introduction into the land of “tunes-that-you-don’t-hum”. While the material is not outlandishly esoteric, it will be just different enough for the younger player to be faced with some new interpretive issues. Each of the four movements (Intrada, Valse, Air and Gallop) is evocative of a different character. Every freshman in my studio studies this piece. Highly recommended.
Level 2
Composer Title Comments
Koch, Erland von Monologue no. 9 This is a nice tuneful and tonal work in two movements. The part is divided into an ossia part in many sections that would be recommended for CC tuba. While the upper register demands in the upper divisi make this a pretty tough bass tuba work, taking the lower alternative notes enable the player with a big horn to program an audience friendly unaccompanied work on their program.
Persichetti, Vincent Serenade no. 12 Perhaps the earliest “standard” for solo tuba, this six-movement work poses many musical and technical challenges for the tubist. Persichetti recommends that the easier movements (2,3,5) could serve as preparatory studies for the more challenging movements (1,4,6). This tune has some difficult elements (such as angular leaps, forays into the extreme upper and lower registers, and fast technical passages) but is well worth the effort. Every self-respecting tubist should tackle this on the big horn.
Spillman, Robert Four Greek Preludes I enjoy this piece for the interpretive demands that it places on the player. Many sections are unmeasured and in the manner of a dramatic recitative. Two of the four movements contain quick dance-like material, the finale being the more difficult of the two in 7/8 time. This is a great piece for study, but it takes a polished performer to pull it off successfully in performance. A great work for studying and understanding musical gestures.
Stevens, John Triumph of the Demon Gods This single movement work is a great study in passive/aggressive. The technical demands are substantial, most notably the use of extreme dynamics in the low register. When the player solves the musical problems in this piece, it is very effective contemporary music.
Level 3
Composer Title Comments
Grant, James Three Furies In all reality, this piece is probably better suited for the bass tuba, but it can be very effective on the big horn as well. The outer movements are angular, difficult and short on melody. The second fury stands nicely on its own and has frequently been used as audition material for the DC Military Bands. One will need a complete grasp of all things technical in order to successfully perform this challenging work.
Gregson, Edward Alarum This recurring “Alarum” theme of this one movement work is based on the name of the dedicatee, James Gourlay. This work is challenging from both a rhythmic point of view and a melodic point of view. One will need a quick tongue, great flexibility and a good understanding of form in order to present a lucid performance of this excellent work. When performed on Contrabass Tuba, special attention will need to be placed on clarity of articulation.
Kraft, William Encounters II If it’s hard to do, this piece will require that you do it! Extended use of multi-phonics, exploration of the furthest extremities of range, and large leaps of difficult intervals are but only a few of the treats awaiting the player in this landmark piece. While this is not my favorite unaccompanied solo for the tuba, it is worthy of study and WILL make you a better player for having worked on it.
Penderecki, Krzysztof Capriccio While this piece is definitely better suited for the Eb or F tuba, it makes for an interesting test of agility on the CC. The largest inherent problem of performing this on the big horn will be maintaining a clear and resonant sound in the sections that linger above the staff.
Persichetti, Vincent Parable XXII This is a big thirteen and a half minute work that was actually composed with the CC Tuba in mind. This work is characterized by frequent changes in tempi and mood and will require a good bit of thought in order to pull off a coherent performance. Persichetti is the King Of The Adverb in this work and gives the performer plenty of direction. Technical problems include disjunct passages marked “as rapidly as possible”, a huge range and the fact that the horn is on your face continually for nearly fourteen minutes.
II. Tuba and Tape
Level 1
Composer Title Comments
Corwell, Neal New England Reveries It seems to me that the phrase “New Age” is too frequently used in a pejorative manner. This fine solo for tuba and tape has a “New Age” feel to it, and that’s just fine with me, thank you! The accompanying CD consists of traditional musical sounds that are electronically created. The tuba part has a few quick passages, but is not too difficult for a young player to tackle. Cues for the tape are written in the part and are easy to follow. This is a very audience friendly work that is fun to work on and equally fun to perform.
Level 2
Composer Title Comments
Corwell, Neal Aboriginal Voices This is another fine creation from the studio of Neal Corwell. This piece is largely rhythmically motivated and is compelling to listen to and satisfying to play. Especially effective in the taped accompaniment is the use of both Didjeridu and Aboriginal grunting. Difficulties will lie in quick clear articulation above the staff.
Level 3
Composer Title Comments
Lazarov, Henri Cadence VI This one-movement work requires the tubist to prepare the accompanying tape by him or herself. The player will encounter proportional notation, unmeasured notation, and multi-phonics. This piece is an excellent project for the player who is drawn to the avant-garde. Daunting, but worthwhile.
Ruggiero, Charles Fractured Mambos This dance-influenced piece is a complex work for tuba and tape that really feels more like an ensemble endeavor than a tuba feature. This is a very satisfying work for both the player and the audience. The CD includes a great performance by Phil Sinder that will give the player a helpful leg up in learning the piece.
III. Original Works for Tuba and Piano
Level 1
Composer Title Comments
Beversdorf, Thomas Sonata for Tuba and Piano* This three-movement sonata has for many years been a staple of the literature, although I am using it less frequently in my studio. The melodic writing is not very tuneful and is based on either repeated note themes or very short motivically based material. The harmony is largely quartal throughout this work. This piece would be a good challenge as an introductory plunge into twentieth century harmony.
Haddad, Don Suite This three-movement suite for tuba and piano is tuneful, rhythmically engaging, and fun to play. Younger players may encounter some trouble with the syncopation, but overall this piece presents no major obstacles. This makes a fine audition piece.
Harmon, John Call of the River This is the best new piece that you’ve probably never heard. A delightful work that is fun to play and easy to listen to. No great technical challenges for the tubist, but thoughtful phrasing is necessary for the piece to come off successfully.
Holmes, Paul Lento This is a nice melodic work that will have the player deal with a tessitura that hangs right in the middle of the staff. The fast section in the middle will require some quick light articulation. Not profound music, but functional for students needing to address life above the 4th partial.
McFarland, Michael Sketches This very rhythmic three-movement work is a great piece for emphasizing the importance of rhythmic precision and time. The outer movements are very lively with rhythmically motivated themes. The inner movement is more contemplative and is based on a whole tone scale. This is a very solid work that is very well suited to the big horn.
Tcherepnine, Alexandre Andante This is a single movement work that is similar in character to the “tone pieces” of the French Horn repertoire. Nice conservative romantic writing with some fleeting moments above the staff.
Level 2
Composer Title Comments
DeFaye, Jean-Michel Suite Marine This is a nice set of character pieces, each movement depicting a creature from the sea. The writing is decidedly French, and the tessitura is in the staff and above. This is a great work to study for the purpose of tone painting and the developing the ability to play descriptively.
Ewazen, Eric Sonata* This big three-movement work is a bit more difficult to pull off on the CC Tuba as opposed to a smaller horn, but it can be done very effectively. The trick to this piece is in understanding the form and developing the movements as large structures. Without this homework, this beautiful piece can come across as long-winded. A great addition to the repertoire.
Hartley, Walter Sonata This is a four-movement work that is based entirely upon the twelve-tone row played at the outset of the piece. Elements of Berg and Shostakovich can be found in this musically challenging work. Although there are no radical technical problems, this tune will require a good bit of musical maturity. A great springboard into the study of serialism.
Hindemith, Paul Sonata Perhaps the standard big tuba piece. Always challenging from an interpretive perspective without too many extraordinary technical demands. Every tubist should study and perform this work. Start looking for a pianist NOW!
Koetsier, Jan Sonatina Although this piece probably works best for the Bass Tuba, it can still be performed effectively on the big horn. The largest challenges in this work will come in the large leaps throughout the work and the very rapid passages in the finale. Great music that screams out to be played with tons of character.
Lebedev, A. Concerto in One Movement This piece represents the closest thing that we have to a bona fide romantic concerto. Decidedly Russian in character, this piece allows the soloist to exploit both the lyrical and technical sides of the tuba. No huge technical demands, excluding the four octaves of E in the cadenza.
Schmidt, William Serenade In four movements distinctly different in character: Romanza, Waltz, Dirge and March. Solid writing for the big horn.
Stevens, Halsey Sonatina Although this tune is better suited for the Bass Tuba, it is a great piece for working on agility in the upper register. This work is in three movements; the outer movements are very rhythmic and have some across the bar line notation. The inner movement is beautifully lyrical. This is one of my favorites, either on F or on CC. Highly recommended.
Swann, Don Two Moods Just as the title suggests, this piece is all about establishing two distinctly different moods The tessitura is pretty high, but it is very effective on the big horn. The playful burlesque nature of the second movement makes this an especially fun piece to perform and to listen to.
Wilder, Alec Sonata no. 1 This is a pretty tough solo, both technically and musically, especially if one is not used to Wilder’s harmonic language. This work will require a very secure high range, an assured sense of phrasing and an assertive approach to making music.
Wilder, Alec Suite no. 1 (Effie) This popular standard is another piece that is great for establishing character and telling stories. Wilder is always quite specific in what he wants to be played regarding tempi and directions. Care should be taken not to play some of these movements too quickly as much of the character is lost. Effie Takes Amphetamines was deleted from the suite! Relax and have fun with these delightful little character pieces.
Level 3
Composer Title Comments
Broughton, Bruce Sonata This piece has quickly become a standard in the literature. The first and second movements are really quite playable on the CC Tuba, but the third movement is really very difficult to pull off effectively. The main difficulty in the third movement will be keeping the nimble licks above the staff sounding clear and agile. This piece is worth the effort on the big horn, but is probably better suited for Eb or F.
Reynolds, Verne Sonata This is a large and difficult atonal work for the tuba, but it is (strangely enough) very rewarding to work up and perform. The main stumbling blocks are the wide angular leaps, the lack of a discernable melody and extreme range requirements.
IV. Original Works for Tuba with Band or Orchestra Accompaniment
Level 1
Composer Title Band Orch. Comments
Bencriscutto, Frank Concertino Yes No This is work presents nice melodies, manageable technical requirements and a chance for the soloist to stretch out and show off a little bit in the two large cadenzas. Not profound music, but fun for the soloist, the band and the audience. Bencriscutto leaves a ton of tempo leeway up to the soloist. I think it’s safe to go toward the slower end of the metronomic spectrum in the allegro section—otherwise this can quickly sound like cartoon music.
Catozzi, A. Beelzebub Yes No This old warhorse is a nice theme and variations solo. A little cheesy, but fun to play and challenging for the younger player.
Curnow, James Concertino Yes No This is a single movement work in three sections. The writing is conservative and melodic. A nice solo for the young player.
Haddad, Don Suite Yes No This is the same work as the Suite for Tuba and Piano, but it has been orchestrated (very effectively) for wind ensemble.
Level 2
Composer Title Band Orch. Comments
Barnes, James Concerto Yes No This large work is a nice vehicle for the big tuba. The technical challenges in the outer movements are pretty substantial and the inner movement requires a nice fluid lyricism. The main challenge on the Contrabass Tuba will be in keeping the music light and energetic.
Ewazen, Eric Concerto No Yes This big three-movement work is a bit more difficult to pull off on the CC Tuba as opposed to a smaller horn, but it can be done very effectively. The trick to this piece is in understanding the form and developing the movements as large structures. Without this homework, this beautiful piece can come across as long-winded. A great addition to the repertoire.
Gregson, Edward Concerto Yes Yes A very popular solo that in my opinion works fantastically on the CC Tuba. The main challenge for the player opting to do this on the big horn will be in keeping the last movement light and frisky. This would be a great tune to have a student work up on both Bass and Contrabass horns and have them draw their own conclusions about the advantages of both options.
Heiden, Bernard Concerto Yes Yes This is a large three-movement work originally written for Tuba and Orchestra and subsequently arranged for Tuba and Wind Ensemble. The big challenges faced in this piece are the wide intervallic leaps at the very beginning of the piece, the extended section of multiple tonguing in the finale and the “sales” aspect of making this an appealing piece of music to the audience.
Jacob, Gordon Tuba Suite No Yes This piece for Tuba and Stings is comprised of eight short movements, all of which are quite playable on the Contrabass tuba. The last movement (Galop, with cadenza) will pose the most difficulties, most of which can be alleviated by observing the ossia options. This is piece is both challenging and rewarding.
McKimm, Barry Concerto Yes Yes This work was composed with the Contrabass Tuba in mind. The writing is very lyrical and tuneful. A very effective solo for the more expressively oriented player.
Smith, Claude Ballad and Presto Dance Yes No A nice musically conservative solo that allows the player to develop contrasting styles. The dance will require a fair amount of agility and a light touch.
Level 3
Composer Title Band Orch. Comments
Broughton, Bruce Concerto Yes No The same piece as his Sonata, but arranged for Wind Ensemble. The first and second movements are really quite playable on the CC Tuba, but the third movement is really very difficult to pull off effectively. The main difficulty in the third movement will be keeping the nimble licks above the staff sounding clear and agile. This piece is worth the effort on the big horn, but is probably better suited for Eb or F.
Curnow, James Symphonic Variants Yes No This is a re-working of the same piece originally written for euphonium. Numerous technical challenges are presented in this harmonically tedious tune. This work will require an athletic approach to the instrument in order for it to come across convincingly.
Ellerby, Martin Concerto Yes No Although this work was originally intended for Eb Tuba, it could conceivably be worked up on CC. This piece presents substantial endurance requirements, especially in the rhapsodic opening section of the work. The fast movements will require a great deal of finesse and agility. Most definitely a challenge on the big horn.
Jager, Robert Concerto Yes Yes One continuous movement in five sections. This piece would probably be best suited for Bass Tuba, but is worth study on the big horn. The main problem encountered will be playing fast passages with clarity. A demanding work, both musically and technically.
Premru, Raymond Concerto No Yes This is a large twenty-minute work that was written in memory of the legendary tubist John Fletcher, with whom Premru had a very close personal and professional relationship. This piece is tough to pull off musically. The piano reduction is relatively awkward and ineffective, but if a chance presents itself to play this with an orchestra, go for it.
Stevens, John Journey No Yes Soon to be published by Editions BIM. A big challenging work commissioned by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, specifically composed for the legendary York.
Vaughan Williams, R. Concerto Yes Yes The Granddaddy of tuba concertos, this piece is really most effective on Bass Tuba, but by all means should be studied even if only a big tuba is available. The focus on Contrabass will be striving for clarity and tonal focus in the upper register. All tubists should study and perform this work, regardless of equipment.
V. Transcriptions for Tuba
Level 1
Composer Arranger Title Comments
Bach, J.S. Bell Air and Bouree From front to back, this piece is much harder than n anyone assumes that it is. The air is deceptively difficult in terms of actually making the long phrases with a good sound. The Bouree also poses some breathing problems and requires a light touch. I can’t figure out why this is the first tuba solo that many young students see, as it plays right into the hands of some of the most problematic aspects of tuba playing.
Beethoven, Ludwig van Bell Variations on a Theme from “Judas Maccabeus” A fairly innocuous set of theme and variations.
Brahms, Johannes Little Five Songs This is a nice selection of tunes that will really allow the player to exhibit their Bel Canto capabilities. If the player doesn’t want to do all five of these, a set of three would be very effective on a recital program.
Capuzzi, Antonio Catilinet Andante and Rondo This is one of the only published transcriptions of a large work in the classical style. This is highly recommended as a good vehicle for developing both lyrical and technical aspects of performance.
Marcello, Benedetto Little Sonata in F Major A great baroque transcription that is both challenging and fun to perform. The allegro movements will require a light touch and a good sense of energy.
Marcello, Benedetto Little Sonata in C Major Another effective transcription by Don Little. Highly recommended for players who are working on quick articulation and agility.
Mozart, W.A. Morris O Isis and Isiris This popular aria from The Magic Flute was a signature tune of Bill Bell. Very simple and beautiful, this tune can sound pretty bad if the player does not adapt a very vocal approach to its performance.
Rachmaninoff, Serge Allen Vocalise This is an effective arrangement of a beautiful romantic piece. Again, a great exercise in playing vocally.
Vaughan Williams, R. Wagner Six Studies in English Folksong These six tunes will really tax the player’s ability to pace their air properly while making a beautiful sound on the instrument. It is important to establish a hierarchy of slow in this piece so that all of the movements don’t end up sounding the same. A very effective piece for working on air issues with younger players.
Vivaldi, Antonio Morris Sonata in a minor A nice transcription that requires a light buoyant approach to the instrument. Nearly all of the writing is either in the bottom half of the staff or below. A nice challenge for the developing player.
Level 2
Composer Arranger Title Comments
Bach, J.S. Cooley Sonata in Eb This transcription from a Flute sonata is really most effective on Bass Tuba, but can be performed effectively on the big horn. The main problem on the Contrabass Tuba will be maintaining a flute-like articulation and character in the allegro movements. A great study in agility.
Gabrileli, Domenico Morris Ricecar (U) This was originally composed for solo cello. The most obvious challenge posed in this piece is effective phrasing, both in the Largo section in the beginning and later on in the extended sixteenth passages.
Handel, G.F. Morris Sonata no. 6 in F Major This is a really fine transcription. As with most Baroque transcriptions, the most important task for the tubist is to stay in the proper Baroque context throughout.
Hindemith, Paul Three Easy Pieces These are very nice pieces in a contemporary harmonic language. Although the tessitura lies in and above the staff, these are quite effective in the big horn.
Mozart, W.A. Horn Concerti These pieces present the rare opportunity for the tubist to study and perform works from the Classical era. If one can maintain an elegance associated with this period, these pieces can be very effective. The tessitura lies primarily in and above the staff. Another great exercise in agility.
Shostakovich, Dmitri Mietunnen “Adagio” from the Limpid Stream Although this transcription is probably better suited to the Bass Tuba, this can be very effective on the CC Tuba. The brooding nature of this music will require the soloist to explore the extremities of their emotional palette.
Strauss, Richard Concerto no. 1, opus 11 This tune definitely works better on the little horn, but is a nice study in heroic romantic literature for the player who is only equipped with the big horn. The main disadvantage in doing this piece on the Contrabass Tuba is that the color of the instrument is prohibitively dark for an effective performance.
Level 3
Composer Arranger Title Comments
Bach, J.S. Brown Suites for Violoncello (U) These works are daunting for the tubist, but are a great study in phrasing. I’m not sure that I’d ever perform one of these Suites, but they are very effective in boosting both technique and decision making skills in the practice room.
Schumann, Robert Cooley Adagio and Allegro A nice transcription of a work originally for horn. This will likely be much more effective of Bass Tuba, largely for reasons of color and clarity. An effective study in long phrasing and agility.
Telemann, G.P. Raph Fantasies for Solo Flute (U) These unaccompanied works are fun to tackle. Unlike the Bach Suites, these pieces were composed for a wind instrument so there aren’t nearly as many phrasing issues that need to be addressed. The technical problem most often encountered in these pieces is quick and repetitive leaps into the upper register. Fun and challenging. Highly recommended.
VI. Original Works for Tuba in a Chamber Music Setting
Level 2
Composer Title Instrumentation Comments
Danielsson, Christer Suite Concertante Tuba and Brass Quartet
Or Tuba and 4 Horns This is a really nice piece that works very well on the big horn. The arrangement for four horns is the more effective of the two. A great recital piece if you have a fine section of horn players.
Kellaway, Roger Dance of the Ocean Breeze Tuba, Horn and Piano This is a nice piece in a jazzy harmonic and rhythmic style. Fun for both the players and the audience.
Schickele, Peter Little Suite for Winter Tuba and Clarinet This is a very nice little suite for the unusual combination of tuba and clarinet. The clarinet part is a bit more challenging that the tuba part. Very enjoyable music.
Tomasi, Henri Etre ou ne pas Etre Tuba and 3 Trombones This piece is based loosely on the famous “To be or not To Be” monologue form Hamlet. The work alternates between being very introverted and extroverted. The harmonic language is dissonant and the piece is pretty moody. A great tune to play with your trombone section.
Wilder, Alec Suite no. 1 for Horn, Tuba and Piano Tuba, Horn and Piano This is a very nice suite originally composed for great friends of Alec Wilder- John Barrows and Harvey Phillips. As with most Wilder, half the battle is getting used to his distinct harmonic language. Requires a sturdy upper register.
Wilder, Alec Suite no. 1 (Effie) Tuba and WW Quintet The famous Effie Suite arranged quite nicely for Tuba and Woodwind Quintet. Very effective.
Level 3
Composer Title Instrumentation Comments
Gillingham, David Diversive Elements Tuba, Euph and Piano This is a very difficult piece, both rhythmically and musically. In all actuality, it is much more effective on Bass Tuba, but could be performed by a very strong player on C Tuba.
Gillingham, David Divertimento for Horn, Tuba and Piano Tuba, Horn and Piano Again, more effective on F or Eb, but conceivable on CC. Blend issues with the horn would be difficult on the big horn.
Reynolds, Verne Trio for Horn, Trombone and Tuba Tuba, Horn and Trombone This is difficult and angular music that will require three horses for an effective performance.
Russell, Armand Suite Concertante Tuba and WW Quintet A nice work in four movements for Tuba and Woodwind Quintet. The writing is traditional in style and requires a good bit of nuance from the tubist. The high tessitura makes this work a challenge for the player on the big horn.
Stevens, John Triangles Tuba, Horn and Trombone A one-movement work with four sections connected by solo cadenzas. Good chamber music employing jazz rhythms and styles.
A Survey of Solo Literature for Contrabass Tuba Utilized by University Professors in the U.S. and Canada
In an effort to learn more about the teaching practices of professors who are presented with students who only have access to either a BBb or CC Tuba, a survey was sent out to approximately forty tuba professors in the United States and Canada. Of those forty surveys, twenty-seven were returned. The single question posed in the survey was simply “What solo literature do you use in teaching students who only have access to a Contrabass Tuba?” Rather than suggest a pre-ordained list of literature to check off, the question was intentionally left open-ended, so that the professors would provide a list that was truly reflective of the literature used in their studios.
The responses varied anywhere from “Everything!” to “It’s been such a long time since I’ve had a student without an F Tuba that I can’t help you.” Many respondents stated that nearly all of their students fall into this “one-horn” category and that in order to teach them all that they need to know about the literature for our instrument, they did everything on the big horn. Other respondents made a clear delineation between solos that they use specifically for study on Contrabass Tuba and solos used on Bass Tuba.
What became evident as a result of this research was that there was relatively little agreement upon a hard and fast standard repertoire for Contrabass Tuba. In total, 166 different pieces were cited. Out of those 166, only nine pieces were cited by greater than 50 percent of the respondents. Amazingly, 99 pieces were cited by either one or two respondents. While the first third of the responses might appear to be pretty predictable, the last two-thirds exposes a vast body of literature that appears to be either wildly under-utilized or simply unknown.
Hopefully, the information generated in this study might lead to a heightened level of diversity of literature utilized in tuba studios. While the Bass Tuba seems to have generated more interest as a viable solo instrument in recent years, the fact remains that the Contrabass Tuba is the “bread and butter” horn for nearly all North American tubists. It is important that as artists, tubists are able to communicate effectively on the instrument most of us rely on as our primary instrument.
A special thanks to the following teachers who took time to assist in this project:
Alan Baer- UW-Milwaukee
Jay Bertolet- Florida International University
Floyd Cooley- DePaul University
Ron Davis- University of South Carolina
Marty Erickson- Penn State University, Eastern Michigan University
Skip Gray- University of Kentucky
John Griffiths- University of Regina
Charles Guy- SUNY Potsdam
Don Harry- Eastman School of Music
Jeff Jarvis- East Carolina University
Tucker Jolly- University of Akron
Ed Jones- Texas A&M-Commerce
Fritz Kaenzig- University of Michigan
Paul Krzyzwicki- Curtis Institute
Don Little- University of North Texas
John Manning- University of Massachusetts
Rex Martin- Northwestern University
Scott Mendoker- Rutgers University
Mark Nelson- Pima Community College
Dan Perantoni- Indiana University
Richard Perry- University of Southern Mississippi
Jim Self- University of Southern California
David Spies- Oklahoma State University
Tom Stein- University of Missouri-Kansas City
John Stevens- University of Wisconsin- Madison
Kenyon Wilson- Valdosta State University
Jerry Young- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Citations Composer Piece Publisher Genre Level
21 Hindemith, Paul Sonata for Tuba and Piano Schott T/P 2
19 Broughton, Bruce Sonata (Concerto) for Tuba Masters Music T/P, T/B 3
18 Persichetti, Vincent Serenade No. 12 Theodore Presser T/A 2
16 Gregson, Edward Tuba Concerto Novello T/P, T/P, T/O 2+
Hartley, Walter Suite for Unaccompanied Tuba Elkan-Vogel T/A 1+
14 Beversdorf, Thomas Sonata Southern T/P 1+
Capuzzi, Antonio Andante and Rondo Hinrichsen Edition T/P 1
Haddad, Don Suite for Tuba Shawnee Press T/P, T/B 1
13 Vaughan Williams, Ralph Six Studies in English Folksong Galaxy Music T/P 1
12 Wilder, Alec Suite No. 1, “Effiie the Elephant” Margun Music T/P, T/WQ 2
Sibbing, Robert Sonata Theodore Presser T/P 2
11 Lebedev, Concerto in One Movement Editions Musicus T/P 2
10 Bach, Johann Sebastian
(arr. Bell) Air and Bouree Carl Fischer T/P 1
Barat, J. Edouard Introduction and Dance Alphonse Leduc T/P 2
9 Vaughan Williams, Ralph Concerto for Bass Tuba Oxford T/P, T/O, T/B 3
Holmes, Paul Lento Shawnee Press T/P 1
Kraft, William Encounters II Editions BIM T/A 3
8 Gabrieli, Domenico
(arr. Morris) Ricecar Shawnee Press T/A 2
Marcello, Benedetto Any of the Sonatas for Cello Various T/P 1
Stevens, Halsey Sonatina Peer-Southern Org. T/P 2
Vaughan, Roger Concertpiece No. 1 Fema Music T/P 2
Vivaldi, Antonio
(arr. Morris) Sonata in a minor Shawnee Press T/P 1+
Wilder, Alec Sonata No. 1 for Tuba and Piano Mentor Music T/P 2
7 Frackenpohl, Arthur Concertino for Tuba and Strings Robert King T/P, T/O 2
Hartley, Walter Sonatina for Tuba and Piano Fema Music T/P 2
Koetsier, Jan Sonatina Editions Marc Reift T/P 2
Marcello, Benedetto
(arr. Little) Sonata No. 1 in F Major Southern T/P 1
Marcello, Benedetto
(arr. Little) Sonata No. 5 in C Major Southern T/P 1
Stevens, John Triumph of the Demon Gods Queen City Brass T/A 2+
6 Handel, G.F.
(arr. Morris) Sonata No. 6 in F Major Shawnee Press T/P 2
Hartley, Walter Sonata for Tuba and Piano Theodore Presser T/P 2
Mozart, Wolfgang Any of the Horn Concerti Various T/P, T/O, T/B 2
Nelhybel, Vaclav Suite General Music T/P 2
5 Arnold, Malcolm Fantasy for Tuba Faber Music, Inc. T/A 1+
Galliard, John Ernest Any of the Cello Sonatas (trb. edition) International T/P 2
Jacob, Gordon Tuba Suite Boosey & Hawkes T/O, T/P 2
4 Bencriscutto, Frank Concertino for Tuba and Wind Ens. Shawnee Press T/B, T/P 1+
Bernstein, Leonard Waltz for Mippy III G. Schirmer T/P 2
Brahms, Johannes
(arr. Little) Five Songs Southern T/P 1
Corwell, Neil New England Reveries Nicolai Music T/t 1+
Curnow, James Concertino TUBA Press T/B, T/P 1+
Ewazen, Eric Sonata (Concerto) for Tuba Southern T/P, T/O 2+
Grant, James Three Furies Grantwood Music T/A, T/O 3
Grundman, Clare Tuba Rhapsody Boosey & Hawkes T/P, T/B 1+
Citations Composer Piece Publisher Genre Level
4, ctd McFarland, Michael Sketches for Tuba and Piano Theodore Presser T/P 1+
Muczynski, Robert Impromptus G. Schirmer T/A 2
Tcherepnine, Alexandre Andante M.P. Belaieff T/P 1+
3 Barnes, James Concerto Southern T/P 2
Clarke, Herbert L. From the Shores of the Mighty Pacific Warner Brothers T/P 2
Frackenpohl, Arthur Variations for Tuba and Piano (The Cobbler’s Bench) Shawnee Press T/P, T/B 2
Jager, Robert Concerto for Bass Tuba Hal Leonard
Theodore Presser T/B, T/O, T/P 3
Penderecki, Krzysztof Capriccio Schott T/A 3
Perantoni, Dan, ed. Master Solos Hal Leonard T/P 2
Reed, Alfred Fantasia a Due Edward Marks T/P 2+
Schmidt, William Serenade Western International Music T/P 2
Shostakovich, Dmitri
(arr. Miettunen) Adagio from “The Limpid Stream” Editions BIM T/P 2+
Strauss, Richard Concerto No.1, opus 11 T/P, T/O, T/B 2+
2 Bach, J.S.
(arr. Cooley) Sonata in E-flat Tuba Classics T/P 2+
Bach, J.S. Any of the Cello Suites Various T/A 3
Beethoven, Ludwig van
(arr. Bell) Variations on the Theme of “Judas Maccabeus” Carl Fischer T/P 1
Boda, John Sonatina Robert King T/P 1+
Clarke, Herbert L. Any of the Cornet Solos Various T/P 2/3
Corwell, Neal Aboriginal Voices Nicolai Music T/t 2
Gallagher, Jack Sonata Breve Brass Press T/A 1+
Handel, G.F.
(arr. Bell) Honor and Arms Belwin T/P 1
Hartley, Walter Concertino for Tuba and Wind Ensemble Theodore Presser T/B, T/P 2
Hayes, Al Solo Pomposo Carl Fischer T/B, T/P 1
Hogg, Merle Sonatina for Tuba and Piano Lyceum Music T/P 2+
Jacob, Gordon Six Little Tuba Pieces Emerson Edition Ltd. T/P 1+
Jager, Robert Diverse Moments #1 Wingert-Jones T/A 2
Koch, Erland von Monologue No. 9 Carl Gehrmans Musikforlag T/A 2
Lebedev, A.
(arr. Smith) Concert Allegro University Music Press (out of print) T/P 2
Mozart, W.A.
(arr. Morris) Serenade Shawnee Press T/P 2
Nelhybel, Vaclav Concert Piece E.C. Kirby, ltd. T/B, T/P 1+
Phillips, Harry, ed. Shawnee Press T/P 1
Purcell, Henry (Little) Song from Timon of Athens Belwin T/P 1
Ross, Walter Villanella TUBA Press T/P 2
Sowerby, Leo Chaccone Carl Fischer T/P 1+
Spillman, Robert Two Songs Editions Musicus T/P 2
Stabile, James Sonata for Tuba and Piano Western (out of print) T/P 2
Stevens, John Salve Venere, Salve Marte Editions BIM T/A 3
Strauss, Franz
(arr. Fischer) Nocturno TUBA Press T/P 2
Telemann, G.P.
(arr. Chidester) Adagio and Allegro Southern T/P 1
Telemann, G.P Prelude and Allegretto Southern T/P 1
Citations Composer Piece Publisher Genre Level
2, ctd Vaughan, Rodger Suite for Unaccompanied Tuba Joseph Boonin T/A 1+
1 Adler, Samuel Canto VII Boosey & Hawkes T/A 3
Baker, Claude Canzonet Southern T/A 2
Bamert, Matthias Incon-Sequenza G. Schirmer T/A 3
Beach, Bennie Lamento Southern (out of print) T/P 2
Benjamin, Thomas Sonata Southern T/P 3
Benson, Warren Helix Carl Fischer T/P, T/B 1+
Brahms, Johannes Four Serious Songs Manuscript T/P 2+
Butts, Carrol Suite for Tuba and Piano Neil A. Kjos T/P 2
Catozzi, A.
(arr. Seredy) Beelzebub Carl Fischer T/P, T/B 1
Christensen, James Meditation on Bach’s Prelude in C
Clarke, Herbert L. Bride of the Waves Various T/P, T/B 2
Clarke, Herbert L. Maid of Mist Various T/P 1+
Clarke, Herbert L. Southern Cross Various T/P, T/B 2
Crockett, Edgar Mystique TUBA Press T/P 2
Cummings, Barton Fantasia Breve for Tuba and Piano PRB Publications T/P 3
Cummings, Barton Three Moods Musical Evergreen T/A 2
Dedrick, Art A Touch of Tuba Kendor T/B, T/P 1
DeFaye, Jean-Michel Suite Marine Leduc T/P 2
Denmark, Max Scene de Concert Ludwig T/P 1+
Downey, John Tabu for Tuba Mentor Music T/P 2+
Ellerby, Martin Tuba Concerto Maeceanas Music T/B, T/P 2+
Follas, Ronald Concertpiece for Tuba and Band TUBA Press T/B, T/P 2
Frackenpohl, Arthur Sonata for Tuba and Piano Kendor T/P 2
Frackenpohl, Arthur Tubatunes Kendor T/A 1+/2
George, Thom Ritter Concertino for Tuba and Wind Ensemble Manuscript from Composer T/B, T/P 2
Gillingham, David Diversive Elements for Euphonium, Tuba, and Piano TUBA Press T.E/P 3
Goodwin, Gordon Alborada (Spanish Dawn Song) Southern T/P 2
Gregson, Edward Alarum Novello T/A 3
Haddad, Don Scherzino Southern T/P 2
Handel, G.F
(arr. Barr) Allegro from Concerto in f minor Ludwig T/P 1
Handel, G.F.
(arr. Cauthen) Concerto in g minor Unknown T/P 2
Handel, G.F.
(arr. Bevan) Concerto No. 3 Unknown T/P 2
Handel, G.F
(arr. Morris) Thrice Happy the Monarch Ludwig T/P 1
Heiden, Bernard Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra Peer-Southern Org. T/O, T/B, T/P 2+
Hindemith, Paul Three Easy Pieces Schott T/P 2+
Jones, Roger Manta for Tuba and Piano TUBA Press T/P 2
Joubert, Claude- Henry Petite Suite Combre Editions T/A 2
Koetsier, Jan Concertino Editions BIM T/O, T/P 3
Larsen, Libby Concert Piece for Tuba and Piano Oxford T/P 3
Madsen, Trygve Sonata for Tuba and Piano Musikk-Huset Forlag T/P 3
Marcello, Benedetto
(arr. Brown) Sonata No. 2 International T/P 2
Marcello, Benedetto
(arr. Brown) Sonata No. 4 International T/P 2
Marteau Morceau Vivant Jack Spratt Music T/P 1
Monti, Vittorio Czardas Edition Marc Reift T/P 3
Citations Composer Piece Publisher Genre Level
1, ctd Mozart, W.A.
(arr. Frackenpohl) Suite No. 1 from The Magic Flute Hal Leonard T/P, T/t 1+
Mozart, W.A.
(arr. Frackenpohl) Suite No. 2 from The Magic Flute Hal Leonard T/P, T/t 1+
Mozart, W.A.
(arr. Morris) O Isis and Isiris Brass Press T/P 1
Mozart, W.A.
(arr. Johnson) Bassoon Concerto, K. 191 Unpublished T/P 2
Mueller, J.I.
(arr. Ostrander) Praeludium, Chorale, Variations and Fugue Editions Musicus T/P 1+/2
Payne, Frank Lynn Sonata for Tuba and Piano Shawnee Press T/P 3
Penn, William Three Essays Seesaw T/A 3
Pethel, Stan Essay for Tuba Kendor T/P 1
Premru, Raymond Concerto for Tuba TUBA Press T/O, T/P 2+
Presser, William Rondo L. Barnhouse T/P 1
Pryor, Arthur Annie Laurie Carl Fischer T/P 2
Pryor, Arthur Blue Bells of Scotland Carl Fischer T/P 2+
Pryor, Arthur Thoughts of Love Carl Fischer T/P 2
Purcell, Henry (Morris)
Recitative, Song and Chorus Southern T/P 1
Rachmaninoff, Serge
(arr. Allen) Vocalise Ludwig T/P 1+/2
Reck, David Five Studies Editions Peters T/A 3
Reynolds, Verne Sonata for Tuba Carl Fischer T/P 3
Ross, Walter Midnight Variations Dorn T/t 3
Ross, Walter Tuba Concerto Boosey & Hawkes T/B, T/P 2
Sauter, Eddie Conjectures Mentor T/B, T/P 3
Sauter, Eddie Eight Random Thoughts Unknown T/A 3
Schooley, John Serenata for Tuba and Piano Heilman Music T/P 2
Schumann, Robert
(arr. Cooley) Adagio and Allegro Tuba Classics T/P 3
Sear, Walter Sonatina for Tuba and Piano Cor Publishing T/P 1
Senaille, Jean Baptiste
(arr. Catilinet) Introduction and Allegro Spiritoso Hinrichsen Edition T/P 2
Shaughnessy, Robert Concertino for Tuba and String Orchestra Peer-Southern Org. T/O, T/P 2
Spillman, Robert Four Greek Preludes Editions Musicus T/A 2+
Stevens, John Dances Peer International T/ 3 Tubas 2+
Stevens, Thomas Variations in an Olden Style Editions BIM T/P, T/O 2+
Strauss, Franz Serenade
Swann, Donald Two Moods for Tuba Chamber Music Library T/P 2
Tomasi, Henri Etre ou ne pas Etre
(To be, or not to Be) Leduc T/ 3 Trbs 2
Vivaldi, Antonio Cello Concerti (Bass editions) T/P, T/O 3
Vivaldi, Antonio
(arr. Ostrander) Concerto in a minor Editions Musicus T/P 2+
Wilhelm, Rolf Concertino for Tuba and Winds Tuba Center T/B, T/P 3
Williams, Ernest Concerto No. 2 Charles Colin T/B, T/P 2
Winteregg, Steven Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra TUBA Press T/O 2
Key-
T/P- Tuba and Piano T/A- Tuba Alone T/B- Tuba and Band T/O- Tuba and Orchestra T/t- Tuba and Tape
Master List of Solo Literature Suitable for Contrabass (BBb or CC) Tuba
Level 1- Relatively Easy
While “relatively easy” is a pretty subjective descriptor, the intent here is to list pieces that might be attainable by an amateur player, a talented high school player or a typical first or second year college student. Generally, the music in this category will not go above middle C or below the F four ledger lines below the staff. The technical challenges in these pieces are not extraordinary and should be overcome by due diligence on the part of the player. From a musical standpoint, pieces in this category generally will not be too esoteric and will be straightforward enough for a developing player to understand.
Titles with an asterisk (*) will present a greater challenge and could have easily been categorized at the next level.
Composer Arranger Title Publisher Genre
Arnold, Malcom Fantasy for Tuba* Faber T/A
Bach, J.S Bell Air and Bouree Carl Fischer T/P
Beethoven, Ludwig van Bell Variations on a Theme from “Judas Maccabeus” Carl Fischer T/P
Bencriscutto, Frank Concertino for Tuba and Wind Ensemble Shawnee T/B, T/B
Benson, Warren Helix* Carl Fischer T/B, T/P
Beversdorf, Thomas Sonata for Tuba and Piano* Southern T/P
Boda, John Sonatina* Robert King T/P
Brahms, Johannes Little Five Songs Southern T/P
Capuzzi, Antonio Catilinet Andante and Rondo Hinrichsen Edition T/P
Catozzi, A. Seredy Beelzebub Carl Fischer T/P, T/B
Clarke, Herbert L. Maid of the Mist Various T/P
Corwell, Neal New England Reveries Nicolai Music T/T
Curnow, James Concertino TUBA Press T/B, T/P
Dedrick,Art A Touch of Tuba Kendor T/B, T/P
Denmark, Max Scene de Concert Ludwig T/P
Frackenpohl, Arthur Tubatunes* Kendor T/A
Gallagher, Jack Sonata Breve* Brass Press T/A
Grundman, Clare Tuba Rhapsody Boosey & Hawkes T/P, T/B
Haddad, Don Suite for Tuba Shawnee Press T/P, T/B
Handel, G.F. Bell Honor and Arms Belwin T/P
Handel, G.F. Barr Allegro from Concerto in f minor Ludwig T/P
Handel, G.F. Morris Thrice Happy the Monarch Ludwig T/P
Harmon, John Call of the River Nichols Music T/P
Hartley, Walter Suite for Unaccompanied Tuba* Elkan-Vogel T/A
Hayes, Al Solo Pomposo Carl Fischer T/B, T/P
Holmes, Paul Lento Shawnee Press T/P
Jacob, Gordon Six Little Tuba Pieces Emerson Edition, ltd. T/P
Marcello, Benedetto Little Sonata in C Major Southern T/P
Marcello, Benedetto Little Sonata in F Major Southern T/P
Marteau, Morceau Vivant Jack Spratt Music T/P
McFarland, Michael Sketches for Tuba and Piano* Theodore Presser T/P
Mozart, W.A. Johnson Bassoon Concerto, k. 191 Unpublished T/P
Mozart, W.A. Morris O Isis and Isiris Brass Press T/P
Mozart, W.A. Frackenpohl Suite no. 1 from The Magic Flute Hal Leonard T/P
Mozart, W.A. Frackenpohl Suite no. 2 from The Magic Flute Hal Leonard T/P
Mueller, J.I. Ostrander Praeludium, Chorale, Variations and Fugue* Editions Musicus T/P
Nelhybel, Vaclav Concert Piece* E.C. Kirby, ltd. T/B, T/P
Composer Arranger Title Publisher Genre
Pethel Stan Essay for Tuba Kendor T/P
Phillips, Harry, ed. Eight Bel Canto Studies Shawnee Press T/P
Presser, William Rondo C.L. Barnhouse T/P
Purcell, Henry Morris Recitative, Song and Chorus Southern T/P
Purcell, Henry Little Song form Timon of Athens Belwin T/P
Rachmaninoff, Serge Allen Vocalise Ludwig T/P
Sear, Walter Sonatina for Tuba and Piano Cor Publishing T/P
Sowerby, Leo Chaccone* Carl Fischer T/P
Tcherepnine, Alexandre Andante* M.P. Belaieff T/P
Telemann, G.P. Chidester Adagio and Allegro Southern T/P
Telemann, G.P. Chidester Prelude and Allegretto Southern T/P
Vaughan, Rodger Suite for Unaccompanied Tuba Joseph Boonin T/A
Vaughan Williams, R. Wagner Six Studies in English Folksong Galaxy Music T/P
Vivaldi, Antonio Morris Sonata in a minor Shawnee Press T/P
Level 2- Moderately Difficult
Music in this category will likely present some type of challenge for the typical player. While some of the challenges will relate to the technical problems posed in the piece, others will lie in deciphering some of the inherent musical problems (complex harmonic language, apparent lack of a discernable tune, etc.). Music under this heading will generally have a range extending from the Eb four ledger lines below the staff to the F above middle C, but will have a tessitura that stays between the C below the staff and middle C. These are pieces that would be great study material for any serious student of the tuba.
Titles with an asterisk (*) will present a greater challenge and could have easily been categorized at the next level.
Composer Arranger Title Publisher Genre
Bach, J.S. Cooley Sonata in E-flat* Tuba Classics T/P
Baker, Claude Canzonet Southern T/A
Barat, J. Edouard Introduction and Dance Leduc T/P
Barnes, James Tuba Concerto Southern T/B, T/P
Beach, Bennie Lamento Southern (out of print) T/P
Butts, Carroll Suite for Tuba and Piano Neil A. Kjos T/P
Clarke, Herbert L. Bride of the Waves Warner Brothers T/P, T/B
Clarke, Herbert L. From the Shores of the Mighty Pacific Warner Brothers T/P, T/B
Clarke, Herbert L. Southern Cross Warner Brothers T/P, T/B
Corwell, Neal Aboriginal Voices Nicolai Music T/T
Cummings, Barton Three Moods Musical Evergreen T/A
Danielsson, Christer Suite Concertante Gehrmans Musikforlag T/4hns, T/BQ
DeFaye, Jean-Michel Suite Marine Leduc T/P
Downey, John Tabu for Tuba* Mentor Music T/P
Ellerby Martin Tuba Concerto* Maecanas Music T/BB, T/B, T/P
Ewazen, Eric Sonata (Concerto)* Southern T/P, T/O
Follas, Ronald Concertpiece for Tuba and Band TUBA Press T/B, T/B
Frackenpohl, Arthur Concertino for Tuba and Strings Robert King T/O, T/P
Frackenpohl, Arthur Sonata for Tuba and Piano Kendor T/P
Frackenpohl, Arthur Variations for Tuba and Piano (The Cobbler’s Bench) Shawnee Press T/P, T/B
Gabrieli, Domenico Morris Ricercar Shawnee Press T/A
Galliard, John Ernest Brown Cello Sonatas International T/P
George, Thom Ritter Concertino for Tuba and Wind Ensemble Manuscript from composer T/B, T/P
Goodwin, Gordon Alborada (Spanish Dawn Song) Southern T/P
Gregson, Edward Tuba Concerto Novello T/B, T/O, T/BB, T/P
Haddad, Don Scherzino Southern T/P
Handel, G.F. Cauthen Concerto in g minor Unknown T/P
Handel, G.F. Bevan Concerto no. 3 Unknown T/P
Handel, G.F. Morris Sonata no. 6 in F Major Shawnee Press T/P
Hartley, Walter Concertino for Tuba and Wind Ensemble Theodore Presser T/B, T/P
Hartley, Walter Sonata for Tuba and Piano Theodore Presser T/P
Hartley, Walter Sonatina for Tuba and Piano Fema Music T/P
Heiden, Bernard Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra Peer- Southern T/O, T/B, T/P
Hindemith, Paul Sonata for Bass Tuba and Piano Schott T/P
Hindemith, Paul Three Easy Pieces Schott T/P
Hogg, Merle Sonatina for Tuba and Piano* Lyceum Music T/P
Holmboe, Vagn Sonata for Tuba and Piano T/P
Jacob, Gordon Tuba Suite Boosey & Hawkes T/O, T/P
Jager, Robert Diverse Movements #1 Wingert-Jones T/A
Jones, Roger Manta for Tuba and Piano TUBA Press T/P
Composer Arranger Title Publisher Genre
Joubert, Claude- Henri Petite Suite Combre Editions T/A
Kellaway, Roger Dance of the Ocean Breeze Editions BIM T/ Hn/P
Koch, Erland von Monologue no. 9 Gehrmans Musikforlag T/A
Koetsier, Jan Sonatina Editions Marc Reift T/P
Lebedev, A. Smith Concert Allegro University Music Press (out of print) T/P
McKimm, Barry Tuba Concerto Yarra Yarra Music T/B, T/P
Mozart, W.A Horn Concerti Various T/P, T/O
Mozart, W.A. Morris Serenade Shawnee Press T/P
Muczynski, Robert Impromptus G. Schirmer T/A
Nelhybel, Vaclav Suite General Music T/P
Perantoni, Dan, ed. Master Solos Hal Leonard T/P
Persichetti, Vincent Serenade no. 12 Theodore Presser T/A
Premru, Raymond Concerto for Tuba* TUBA Press T/O, T/P
Pryor, Arthur Annie Laurie Carl Fischer T/P
Pryor, Arthur Blue Bells of Scotland* Carl Fischer T/P
Pryor, Arthur Thoughts of Love Carl Fischer T/P
Reed, Alfred Fantasia a Due* Edward Marks T/P
Ross, Walter Tuba Concerto Boosey & Hawkes T/B, T/P
Ross, Walter Vilanella TUBA Press T/P
Schickele, Peter Little Suite for Winter Theodore Presser T/cl.
Schmidt, William Serenade Western International T/P
Schooley, John Serenata for Tuba and Piano Heilman Music T/P
Senaille, Jean Baptiste Catilinet Introduction and Allegro Spiritoso Hinrichsen Edition T/P
Shaughnessy, Robert Concertino for Tuba and String Orchestra Peer- Southern T/O, T/P
Shostakovich, Dmitri Miettunen “Adagio” from The Limpid Stream* Editions BIM T/P
Sibbing, Robert Sonata for Tuba and Piano Theodore Presser T/P
Spillman, Robert Four Greek Preludes* Editions Musicus T/A
Spillman, Robert Two Songs Editions Musicus T/P
Stabile, James Sonata for Tuba and Piano Western T/P
Stevens, Halsey Sonatina Peer- Southern T/P
Stevens, John Dances* Peer International T/3 tubas
Stevens, John Triumph of the Demon Gods* Queen City Brass T/A
Strauss, Franz Fischer Nocturno TUBA Press T/P
Strauss, Richard Graham Concerto no. 1, opus 11* TUBA Press T/P, T/O, T/B
Swann, Donald Two Moods Chamber Music Lib. T/P
Tomasi, Henri Etre ou ne pas Etre Leduc T/4 tbns
Vaughan, Rodger Concertpiece no. 1 Fema Music T/P
Vivaldi, Antonio Ostrander Concerto in a minor Editions Musicus T/P
Wilder, Alec Sonata for Tuba and Piano Mentor Music T/P
Wilder, Alec Suite no. 1 for Tuba and Piano (Effie) Margun Music T/P, T/WQ
Wilder, Alec Suite for Horn, Tuba and Piano Margun Music T/Hn/P
Winteregg, Steven Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra TUBA Press T/O
Level 3- Very Difficult
Solos in this section are, just as the heading states, really quite difficult to pull off on any instrument. The technical and musical requirements are daunting for a large instrument. Some of the titles listed in this category are fairly standard repertoire for the Bass Tuba, but have found their way on to this list because of their difficulty to perform on the Contrabass Tuba. It is a certainty that some of these tunes were composed with the lighter and more nimble Bass Tuba in mind but it is my belief that the study of these works on Contrabass Tuba will have a beneficial effect on the player’s approach to the big horn.
Composer Arranger Title Publisher Genre
Adler, Samuel Canto VII Boosey & Hawkes T/A
Bach, J.S. Brown Suites for Violoncello International T/A
Bamert, Matthias Incon-Sequenza Southern T/A
Benjamin, Thomas Sonata Southern T/P
Broughton, Bruce Sonata (Concerto) for Tuba Masters Music T/B, T/P
Curnow, James Symphonic Variants TUBA Press T/B, T/P
Gillingham, David Diversive Elements TUBA Press T/Euph/P
Grant, James Three Furies Grantwood Music T/A, T/O
Gregson, Edward Alarum Novello T/A
Horovitz, Joseph Concerto for Tuba Novello T/BB, T/P
Jager, Robert Concerto Hal Leonard
Theodore Presser T/B, T/O, T/P
Koetsier, Jan Concertino Editions BIM T/P, T/O
Kraft, William Encounters II Editions BIM T/A
Larsen, Libby Concertpiece for Tuba and Piano Oxford University Press T/P
Monti, Vittorio Czardas Editions Marc Reift T/P
Payne, Frank Lynn Sonata for Tuba and Piano Shawnee Press T/P
Penderecki, Krzysztof Capriccio Schott T/A
Penn, William Three Essays Seesaw T/P
Persichetti, Vincent Parable XXII for Solo Tuba Elkan-Vogel T/A
Reck, David Five Studies Editions Peters T/A
Reynolds, Verne Sonata for Tuba and Piano Carl Fischer T/P
Reynolds, Verne Trio for Horn, Trombone and Tuba Margun Music T/Tbn/Hn
Ross, Walter Midnight Variations Dorn T/t
Ruggiero, Charles Fractured Mambos Available from composer T/t
Russell, Armand Suite Concertante Accura Music T/WQ
Sauter, Eddie Conjectures Mentor T/B, T/P
Sauter, Eddie Eight Random Thoughts Unknown T/A
Schumann, Robert Cooley Adagio and Allegro Tuba Classics T/P
Stevens, John Journey Editions BIM T/O, T/P
Stevens, John Salve Venere, Salve Marte Editions BIM T/A
Stevens, John Triangles Gordon V. Thompson T/Hn/Tbn
Telemann, G.P. Raph Flute Fantasies Carl Fischer T/A
Vaughan Williams, Ralph Concerto for Bass Tuba Oxford T/O, T/P, T/B
Vivaldi, Antonio Bass Concerti Various T/P, T/O
Gregson Concerto
Casterede Sonatine
Koetsier Concertino
Jager Concerto
Wilder Effie Suite
Adagio from The Limpid Stream
Love all of the above for how tunefull and audience pleasing they can be, and they are also a big challenge to flexability and tone and such.
Haddad Suite
Frakenpohl Concertino
Sibbing Sonata
Strauss Nocturne Opus 7
Love these three for the ease of play, but the Haddad is like the "heart and soul" of the tuba world. Everybody thinks that they've gotta play it.
Stevens Journey
Tubafolia
Fleming Concerto
John and Vaughan Williams Concerto
I like these pieces for their mix of musicality with cerebral complexity, however I really can't say that I like to play them. I'm still only a mere mortal, and these pieces were pretty much written for the Gods of their day.