Topmusicanswers
Put the horn on your left shoulder to hold it up and balance it, while lifting the instrument with your right elbow. Hold the area where the mouthpiece and the lead pipe meet. Keep the horn's bell facing north/south depending on which way you're facing. Take a large breath and blow to produce a sound.
- What key is sousaphone?
- How does the sousaphone make sound?
- What is the lowest note a sousaphone can play?
What key is sousaphone?
An introduction to Sousaphones...
Except for the instrument's general shape and appearance, the sousaphone is technically similar to a tuba. Most modern sousaphones are made in the key of BB♭; many older sousaphones were pitched in the key of E♭, but current production of sousaphones in that key is limited nowadays.
How does the sousaphone make sound?
The sousaphone is used for parades and was invented by John Philip Sousa. Sound on a brass instrument comes from a vibrating column of air inside the instrument. The player makes this column of air vibrate by buzzing the lips while blowing air through a cup or funnel shaped mouthpiece.
What is the lowest note a sousaphone can play?
The lowest note written for the sousaphone is the F1 below the bass clef staff. The high range goes to the F4 above the bass clef staff. A professional performer can extend the range more than an octave above this and extend the low pitches into the pedal range of the instrument.
