Contemporary systems and trends for the tuba

Nearly all of the «new music» composed for the tuba has been written especially for some outstanding artist. These compositions tend to be technically difficult and may introduce many unfamiliar notational devices. The performer must not only be well established in the traditional sense but must also be able to manage non-traditional techniques and notation.

Encounters II for Solo Tuba¹ by William Kraft immediately comes to mind. This work was composed especially for Roger Bobo and demands incredible musicianship and technique. It encompasses a range of just about six octaves and requires the performer to produce a «double-stop» effect.