The lowest member of the brass family, tubas are valved to regulate pitch and come in several sizes and shapes.

A descendant of the Renaissance serpent, the first modern tuba was patented in Berlin in 1835 as a bass brass instrument for military bands.

The modern orchestral tuba has valves and a conical bore. Frequently associated with the bass 'oom-pah' rhythm common to military and dance bands, tubas are commonly used in both orchestras and bands and are capable of producing a warm, rich, and powerful sound.