How to Play the Sousaphone

Last Updated: January 21, 2022

A sousaphone is no doubt one of the most important instruments in marching band. As the marching version of the tuba, it's really the backbone of the sound of the band. However, sousaphones are different than tubas, and before you put it on, you'll need to know how to play it.

Steps

1
Have a tuba background. While it is possible to start out on sousaphone, most sousaphone players started out on the tuba in a concert band, and that'll make switching types of tubas much easier.
2
Assemble the instrument - take the bell and put it in the hole at the top of the horn, and then put your lead pipe in the hole next to your valves. Be sure to screw it on really tight.

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3
Put the horn on your left shoulder to hold it up and balance it, while lifting the instrument with your right elbow.
4
Hold the area where the mouthpiece and the lead pipe meet.
5
Keep the horn's bell facing north/south depending on which way you're facing.
6
Take a large breath and blow to produce a sound.
7
Make sure you have a nice, smooth tone, and have fun with it!

Community Q&A

Question

I just started sousaphone today, it hurts like crazy but I'm able to march without a pad, How do I stop it from bouncing?

Community Answer

If your sousaphone is bouncing while you're marching, then you need to focus on smoothing out your marching. The bottom half of your body, from the waist down, or "the athlete," should be marching as normal. The top half of your body, or "the musician," should be still and calm, so your airstream is uninterrupted. If someone were to watch you march, but only from the waist up, it should look like you're gliding, which will eliminate the bounce.
Question

My shoulder hurts when I play the sousaphone. Is there any way I can make it stop hurting?

Community Answer

You might want to put a piece of foam on your shoulder, or rubber band it to the instrument. You can also try to see if you can angle the instrument differently to ensure the weight is well balanced.
Question

Where do I put my left hand when playing the sousaphone?

Community Answer

Place your left hand on the sousaphone, almost by your shoulder.

Warnings

Do not drop it!

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Always keep the screws on the bell tight so the bell won't fall off while you play

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Make sure your mouthpiece is in the lead pipe tightly.

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