Is it hard to switch from tuba to bass clarinet? How easy is it to play the bass clarinet?

Question

Is it hard to switch from tuba to bass clarinet? How easy is it to play the bass clarinet?

Answer 1

I know switching from clarinet to bass wasn't too bad; hitting the lowest notes took some skill, but you should be able to handle that.  In my marching band, lots of people switch around, obeo to sax, clarinet to melophone, one girl even switched from cello to tuba!  It all depends on how much effort you want to put into it.

Answer 2

Bass clarinet is very different from tuba. The ombrochure is much firmer, the fingering is completely different and you have to blow really hard but still keep control. Also it's a woodwind instrument so it has a reed, which you won't be used to. My friend and I play the clarinet, and she's been playing the bass clarinet for this group we're in. She says it's really hard, so it will be even harder for a non-woodwind player.

Hope this helps! It won't be an easy switch, but you could give it a go. I would try the clarinet first, then try moving.

Good luck!

Answer 3

It's not that hard. The only thing that could be difficult is learning to switch from a brass to a woodwind instrument; it sounds like a good switch because they both carry the bass line.

--Good Luck :]

Answer 4

Switching from tuba to clarinet is like going from ice to the fire... or the other way around. I can think of only one thing where you have an advantage and that is you can read music..... oh and yeah... you can blow. :) There is nothing that the two instruments have in common, but you may enjoy the difference in blowing in the clarinet rather than the tuba. Now, you are going to have to buy reeds, and for the bass clarinet.. they are pretty pricey, like $40.00 a box of 10. Hope that helps... and think about the bright side..... You will be a two instrument musician!!! :))

Answer 5

i want to know why you would want to switch,...i mean they are both marvelous instruments but as a tubist you are already the most important wind player in the group.

bass clarinet should seem easier after having played tuba.