Amateur trombone player of aspiring trombone player would find it difficult to distinguish the brass trombone from tube. Both the instruments are pretty much the same in appearance and makes similar low and deep sounds. However, once you get to play the instruments you will realize there is numerous difference of tuba vs. the brass trombone. Moreover, there are multiple types of trombone and tube and each type has distinctive features and tonal qualities. The following section explores the differences between the tube and the brass trombone in detail.
The Difference between the Brass Trombone and Tuba
It is essential for aspiring trombone players to understand the differences between a brass trombone and a tube to be able to master the instruments. Here is a comprehensive explanation of the key differences between the tubes vs. the brass trombone.
1. The Difference in Size
One of the main differences between the tube and the brass trombone is the size. The tube is bigger in size than the trombone. Although apparently the trombone might seem bigger due to its long tubing, the tube has a short structure as it tubing is coiled around in a loop structure. This coiled shape of the tube with the bell faced upside or towards the side is responsible for its low and deep sound. On the other hand, trombone is a slightly smaller than tub with long slide that allow pitch adjustment. It’s has a large bell at the end.
2. Sound Difference
The difference in sound depends on the size of the mouthpiece. The trombone has a small mouthpiece allowing it to produce a wide range of sounds. The pitch is much higher than that of the tube. The tube usually has a big mouthpiece that creates a deep sound at lower pitch. Even though both are use in orchestra and ensembles, both plays a distinctive role and the trombone.
3. Difficulty Level
Trombone is famous as the easiest brass instrument to play, making it the most suitable for children and amateur adult learners. Moreover, there are various sizes of trombone allowing children to start with the smallest size. They can even easily carry it in a case if they need to travel. The pBuzz is the most appropriate instrument for children to start and the pBone Mini and PBone are good for amateur and first time learners. However, trombone requires technical prowess in managing the slides and good breathing control.
On the other hand, tube is famous for being the thickest and heaviest brass instrument. As a result, players struggle to gain grip of the instrument to be able to play at the initial stage. Additionally, it requires forceful air blow from the player and efficient embouchure to play it properly. Thus, mastering tube is much difficult than trombone.
4. Application in Music
The trombone has a versatile sound quality that is both melodious and harmonic, making it appropriate for both orchestra and solos. Additionally, the slide trombone can allow harmonic shift between pitches making a unique sound. This distinctive and versatile role of trombone have been used in many classical solos by famous musical personalities like Bach and David in their famous compositions like Cello Suites and concertino. Tube with its low and deeper pitch on the other hand, is more famously used for the melodic and rhythm parts of orchestras.
5. Slide vs. Valve
Tubas are played with valve that is used to change the slide length to adjust the pitch. On the other hand, trombones are popular for their unique slide mechanism. Players prefer the slide than the valve trombone to change the pitch.
Conclusion
The blog has discussed the difference of tube vs. the brass trombone in details. Hope this proves helpful for you to make informed decision with both the instruments. However, make sure you purchase instruments from top brands offering authentic brass instrument of higher quality. Top brands offer instruments that are of high-quality and better longevity. Additionally, you will also find a plethora of option from big brands to choose the one that is appropriate for your level of expertise.
