TŬBA

( σάλπιγξ ), a bronze trumpet, distinguished from the cornu by being straight while the latter was curved. [ Cornu . ] The tuba was employed in war for signals of every description, at the games and public festivals, and also at the last rites to the dead: those who sounded the trumpet at funerals were termed siticines , and used an instrument of a peculiar form. The tones of the tuba are represented as of a harsh and fear-inspiring character. The invention of the tuba is usually ascribed by ancient writers to the Etruscans. It has been remarked that Homer never introduces the σάλπιγξ in his narrative except in comparisons, which leads us to infer that, although known in his time, it had been but recently introduced into Greece; and it is certain that, notwithstanding its eminently martial character, it was not until a late period used in the armies of the leading states. By the Greek tragedians its Tuscan origin is fully recognised. According to one account it was first fabricated for the Tyrrhenians by Athena, who in consequence was worshipped by the Argives under the title of Σάλπιγξ , while at Rome the tubilustrium , or purification of sacred trumpets, was performed on the last day of the Quinquatrus. [ Quinquatrus . ] There appears to have been no e ential difference in form between the Greek and Roman or Tyrrhenian trumpets. Both were long, straight, bronze tubes, gradually increasing in diameter, and terminating in a bell-shaped aperture. IMG:6459379820872971714_ill399b.jpg: Soldiers blowing Tubae and Cornua. (From Column of Trajan.)