With warmth and humor, tuba virtuoso Harvey Phillips tells the story of his amazing life and career from his Missouri childhood through his days as a performer with the King Brothers and the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circuses, his training at the Juilliard School, a stint with the US Army Field Band, and his freelance days with the New York City Opera and Ballet. A founder of the New York Brass Quintet, Phillips served as vice president of the New England Conservatory of Music and became Distinguished Professor of Music at Indiana University. The creator of an industry of TubaChristmases, Octubafests, and TubaSantas, he crusaded for recognition of the tuba as a serious musical instrument, commissioning more than 200 works. Enhanced by an extensive gallery of photographs, Mr. Tuba conveys Phillips’s playful zest for life while documenting his important musical legacy.
Embark on an inspiring and often hilarious journey through the extraordinary life of Harvey Phillips, the "Mr. Tuba" himself, in this captivating autobiography. More than just a memoir, this is a vibrant portrait of a man who single-handedly championed the tuba, transforming it from a largely overlooked instrument into a respected voice in the world of classical and popular music. Phillips' story is one of relentless passion and unwavering dedication. From his humble beginnings in Missouri, where his musical talents first emerged, to the bright lights and big sounds of the King Brothers and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circuses, Phillips' early experiences shaped his unique perspective and fueled his ambition. Imagine the thrill of performing under the big top, a young tuba player honing his skills amidst the spectacle and excitement of the circus! This illustrated edition delves into Phillips' rigorous training at the prestigious Juilliard School, a pivotal period that solidified his musical foundation and opened doors to new opportunities. Following his studies, he served with distinction in the US Army Field Band, further refining his craft and developing his leadership abilities. But Phillips' true impact came during his freelance years in New York City, where he performed with the renowned New York City Opera and Ballet. It was here that his vision for the tuba truly began to take shape. Frustrated by the instrument's limited repertoire and lack of recognition, Phillips embarked on a crusade to elevate its status. A true innovator and entrepreneur, Phillips founded the New York Brass Quintet, a groundbreaking ensemble that showcased the tuba's versatility and virtuosity. He also held influential positions at the New England Conservatory of Music, where he served as vice president, and Indiana University, where he became a Distinguished Professor of Music, shaping the next generation of tuba players. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, as he became a mentor and inspiration to countless musicians. "Mr. Tuba" is perhaps best known as the creator of TubaChristmas, Octubafest, and TubaSantas whimsical and wildly popular events that brought together tuba players of all ages and abilities to celebrate the instrument and spread holiday cheer. These events, which continue to thrive today, are a testament to Phillips' infectious enthusiasm and his ability to connect with people through music. Beyond the anecdotes and personal stories, this book reveals Phillips' significant contributions to the tuba repertoire. He commissioned over 200 new works for the instrument, enriching its musical landscape and providing countless opportunities for tuba players to shine. His tireless efforts helped to establish the tuba as a solo instrument capable of expressing a wide range of emotions and musical styles. Enhanced by a rich collection of photographs, "Mr. Tuba" offers a glimpse into the personal life of this remarkable musician. From his early days on the road to his later years as a respected educator and performer, the images capture Phillips' warmth, humor, and unwavering passion for music. This book is a must-read for tubists, brass players, music educators, and anyone who appreciates the power of music to transform lives. It is a celebration of Harvey Phillips' remarkable legacy and a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and a little bit of tuba magic. Discover the story behind the legend and be inspired by the life of "Mr. Tuba."
