Sousaphone facts for kids

A sousaphone being played.

The sousaphone is a big, circular brass instrument. It is related to the tuba, but it's shaped differently. This instrument was made around 1893. It was named after a famous American bandleader named John Philip Sousa.

The sousaphone was designed to be easier to play while standing or marching. It also helps the sound reach over the heads of the band members.

How the Sousaphone Makes Sound

Just like a tuba, the sousaphone makes sound when air moves past your lips. You "buzz" your lips into a large, cup-shaped mouthpiece. This buzzing makes the air inside the instrument vibrate, creating music.

Its Unique Shape

The sousaphone is special because it wraps around the musician's body. It has a large, wide bell at the end. This bell points forward, sending the sound out in front of the player. This design makes it great for outdoor performances.

Where Sousaphones Are Used

Because it is easy to carry and projects sound well, the sousaphone is very popular. You will often see it in marching bands. It is also used in many other types of musical genres.

Materials Used

Sousaphones were first made from brass. This is a common metal for many musical instruments. In the middle of the 20th century, lighter materials like fiberglass started to be used. Today, you can find sousaphones made from both brass and fiberglass.

Images for kids

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  1893 sousaphones at the Museum of Making Music

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  Sousaphone player Tycho Cohran with the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, at the TFF.Rudolstadt 2012

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  Saxophone and sousaphone players at a charity festival in Chicago, July 1930

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  Street performer playing the sousaphone

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  Costumed sousaphone player, New Orleans, Mardi Gras Day 2005

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  Sousaphones being played by marching band at Freedom Festival 2011

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  Painted bells of sousaphones from the Virginia Pep Band

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  "Jazz Funeral for Democracy" event in New Orleans

See also

In Spanish: Sousafón para niños