Sousaphone Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
The sousaphone is a musical instrument named after John Philip Sousa, the famous march composer and conductor.It was invented in the 1890s to replace tubas in marching bands: in a concert, the tuba is traditionally held on the musician's lap with the bell pointed upward. In marching, however, the musician must hold the tuba in his hands. This proves very difficult due to the weight and shape of the tuba.
The sousaphone is a valved brass instrument with the same tube length as a tuba, but shaped differently so that the bell is above the head, the valves are situated directly in front of the musician a few inches above the waist, and most of the weight rests on one shoulder. Thus, the sousaphone can be carried far more easily than a traditional concert tuba, and sounds very similar. Although it is easier to carry, it does create a shoulder ache if not worn with shoulder padding (either that or just duck it in like a man).
Sousaphones are often tuned to BB♭ and read the bass clef. However, some are tuned to E♭ or C. Most Sousaphones have 3 valves, but a few have 4. Usually Tubas have 4 and Sousaphones 3, but in rare cases Sousaphones DO have 4 and many times Tubas have 3.
In recent years, sousaphones have been available made of fiberglass instead of brass. The tone is slightly inferior to the brass instrument, but the weight is much less, the cost is lower, and the sound is still acceptable in virtually any marching band performance.
The Sousaphone's large, flared bell can be also made from fiberglass or brass. In large marching bands, the bell is often covered with a tight fitting cloth which enables the sousaphone section to spell out the school's name, initials, or mascot.
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