The History and Usage of the Tuba in Russia

Beginning with Mikhail Glinka, the tuba has played an important role in Russian music. The generous use of tuba by Russian composers, the pedagogical works of Blazhevich, and the solo works by Lebedev have familiarized tubists with the instrument’s significance in Russia. However, the lack of available information due to restrictions imposed by the Soviet Union has made research on the tuba’s history in Russia limited. The availability of new documents has made it possible to trace the history of the tuba in Russia. The works of several composers and their use of the tuba are examined, along with important pedagogical materials written by Russian teachers.