Competition Solos, Book 3 Tuba: Tuba Book

The solos span character and style: waltzes and polkas bring infectious rhythmic charm, while sonata movements and character pieces explore lyrical singing and gentle virtuosity. Across all selections, the writing breathes naturally for tuba, avoiding the common trap of giving low brass perfunctory accompaniment patterns that pretend to be solos.

This collection serves Grade 3 to 3.5 tubas preparing for state solo competitions, as well as intermediate players who need reliable, accessible solos that build confidence in performance settings. Whether you're working with a private student or directing an ensemble whose members are entering competitions, these pieces give tubas meaningful melodic opportunity without the steep technical demands of Grade 4 repertoire.

• Download the audio tracks using the codes included with your book. Listen to the accompaniment patterns while you practice, even at slow tempos, so rhythm and phrasing lock in naturally before you ever rehearse with a pianist.
• Study the piano accompaniment parts yourself. Knowing what the left hand and right hand are doing helps you anticipate harmonic changes and shape your phrasing to match the harmonic rhythm rather than playing ahead of or behind it.
• Confirm which solos are approved selections in your specific state before investing rehearsal time. State lists rotate and vary regionally, so verify with your director or state music association that your chosen piece counts toward competition.

Feature these solos in a spring or end-of-year recital that celebrates students preparing for summer competitions. Alternatively, use them as stand-alone audition or jury pieces throughout the year. Pairing a solo from this collection with a group performance on a concert program signals to the audience and your adjudicators that your program values individual musicianship as much as ensemble work.

• Playing sustained melodic lines with consistent tone across the range
• Responding to piano accompaniment and adjusting rhythm and phrasing within the ensemble
• Interpreting character pieces and dance forms (waltz, polka, rondo)
• Preparing solos that meet state competition standards and requirements