Nice choice, The tuba's sound is deep and rich, and it is the lowest-pitched instrument on the brass family.

Interesting tuba facts

• In Latin the word 'tuba' means horn or trumpet.

• A tuba is used to produce the brass section of an orchestra's bass notes. They are usually found in jazz music and in brass bands as well.

• The tubist holds the instrument upright while playing, which is different than the way trombones or trumpets are held.

• Tubas became a member of symphony orchestras in the mid-1800s.

• When tubas became a member of the orchestra they replaced the ophicleide. 

• Standard tubas have approximately 16 feet of tubing!!!

• The most common tuba keys are F, E flat, CC, or BB-flat. They may have between 3 and 6 valves.

• In order to play the tuba properly a tubist requires a lot of breath.

• Some composers who have created tuba concertos include Ralph Vaughan Williams and John Williams, John Williams is best know for his movie music including Star Wars.

• A tuba player in NZ who plays in an orchestra is referred to as a tuba player. A tuba player in a military band or brass band is referred to as a bass player. In most places a tuba player is simply a tubist or tubaist.