If you are to believe the liner notes, this piece was written by PDQ Bach just the day before he died, and so must stand as a landmark piece for him. But does the music really stand the test of time?
We would have to say yes, this piece is very challenging for both instrumentalists, although the tubist is allowed to take an obvious breath or two. Basically it's a call and response situation; and although the violinist is definitely expected to play more notes, it's the tubist who will get most of the attention.
For those of you thinking of sacrilege, no this can't be played on a double bass, since you would have to knock on your bell which a bassist doesn't even have.