Playing a big Sousaphone in a stand---

[Walter Webb]

I have seen grainy videos of pre-WW2 dance bands with the string bassist doubling on stand-mounted Sousaphones, and switching quickly from one to the other. Usually, the player is way in the back and hard to see. Presumably it was done to save the poor guy's shoulders, neck and back, and to allow quick instrument changes.

I would like to know some details about how to do that. What was done to the neck to be able to sit or stand next to the horn, and what kind of stand was used? Perhaps someone knows these things, or could post a video link that reveals more.

Specifically, I have a large York sousa from the 30s with an unusual U-shaped neck and leadpipe (with the long scalloped bracing). I can swing the neck off to the left side and toot, but getting my right hand to approach the pistons at a decent angle is nigh impossible.

Ideas? Technology? Modifications?

Thanks, Walter

[David Richoux]

Have you tried turning the bell away from the normal (shoulder carry) playing position? No Sousaphone I have ever played had a problem with stand playing, but I always did turn the bell. Do you have a photo of the instrument?

[PaulTkachenko]

The regular k and m stand 'top' in a beefy cymbal stand works a treat if you want to stsnd.

Yes, you need to twist the bell round and swing the gooseneck round.