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Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by Anon on 3/11/2023, 2:42 pm

Which side conductor left or right do you prefer your tubas?

Specifically for recording for honor band.

Obviously the tuba bell will face out toward the audience were they seated conductor right but does that location help the tuba sound be more present on a recording?

Re: Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by Center-Right on 3/20/2023, 2:12 pm, in reply to "Tubas on which side if the band?"

For clarity sake, having too many (more than 2) is a hindrance to the entire ensemble. It make everything sound very boomy & muffled.

The room where you're recording also makes a huge difference. You should professionally record rehearsals in the same room as your HB recording & listen to them to determine what you want.

If it's not clear enough due to too much tuba, cut them down to only 2 players and then switch them on the next tune/mvt.

Re: Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by by the timp on 3/20/2023, 12:33 pm, in reply to "Tubas on which side if the band?"

I usually put mine in front the timpani and bass drum. I've worked with lots of fine folks who did the same.

Re: Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by Mark on 3/13/2023, 4:14 pm, in reply to "Tubas on which side if the band?"

I usually place them on left so they are near horns for the march and other motor elements. I found they sound better going into the band versus on the far right.

But, I don’t think is a definite non-negotiable.

They are designed to sound better if bell Is not facing direct source. (Like euphonium)

Re: Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by Doc Too on 3/12/2023, 12:10 pm, in reply to "Tubas on which side if the band?"

If the tubas are strong players, put them in the center so their sound can support/reinforce the entire band.

If the tubas are not so strong, put them in the center so their sound can be easily blended with the better players in the band.

In other words, I like them in the center.

Re: Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by Yes on 3/11/2023, 6:02 pm, in reply to "Tubas on which side if the band?"

Yes, sound (volume) will follow the inverse square law.

In plain band director terms. If you double the distance from a sound source you will get 1/4 of the volume. The opposite is also true, if you 1/2 the distance you will get four times the volume.

Bring your tuba up a row or two. Totally fine for a recording.

Re: Tubas on which side if the band?

Posted by Smalltown on 3/11/2023, 4:43 pm, in reply to "Tubas on which side if the band?"

It depends on how good tubas are and where you a recording. I used to put them on conductors right. This year, in the center because he was really strong. Listen to how they balance the group and that’s where you put them. Not a definitive answer.

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