Tuba Concerto (Higdon)

Jennifer Higdon's Tuba Concerto is a prominent work in the tuba repertoire, commissioned by and dedicated to Philadelphia Orchestra principal tuba player, Carol Jantsch. It was premiered in 2018 by Jantsch and the Philadelphia Orchestra, conducted by Cristian Măcelaru.

The concerto is known for its vibrant orchestration, engaging melodies, and virtuosic writing for the tuba. Higdon's compositional style, often described as neo-romantic, is evident in the concerto's blend of lyrical passages and energetic, rhythmic sections. It is a significant contribution to the limited solo tuba concerti literature.

The work is generally structured in three movements, although their titles and character may vary depending on the specific analysis:

• The first movement often features a blend of fanfare-like gestures and lyrical melodies, showcasing the tuba's range and expressive capabilities.
• The second movement is typically slower and more introspective, exploring the tuba's warm and resonant tone in a more lyrical setting. It often features moments of dialogue between the tuba and other instruments in the orchestra.
• The third movement is typically fast and virtuosic, requiring the tuba player to demonstrate agility and technical prowess. It often concludes with a powerful and triumphant climax.

The Tuba Concerto (Higdon) has quickly become a popular and frequently performed work in the tuba world, due to its accessibility and its effective showcasing of the instrument's capabilities. Its success has helped to broaden the tuba's visibility as a solo instrument and has contributed to the growth of the tuba repertoire.