Posted by Leland on September 24, 2001 at 18:41:23:
In Reply to: Uncomfortable Sousaphone posted by Dan Mordhorst on September 20, 2001 at 16:35:01:
Posting only because I haven't seen anyone say this yet (and yes, in the archived thread pointed out earlier, too) --
Whoever said to lay the body on the floor and turn the bell so that its edge is only a couple inches from the floor pretty much has it right.
A mehodical approach to fitting the sousie -
Stand with correct posture without the horn (flat shoulders, straight back, etc etc) and memorize how that feels. Put it on -- maybe without the bell attached, but with the leadpipe pointing away -- and adjust the body of the horn so that the valves are within easy reach. Now, bring the leadpipe around, and fiddle with it and the bits to bring the mouthpiece to your face without having to either reach with your neck or move the horn with your arms. FINALLY, attach the bell, and with assistance, adjust it so that it points as straight to the front as is normal for your band (sometimes flat to the front, and judging from some other posts, sometimes a bit to the left) -- all the while, maintaining that correct, neutrally comfortable posture.
As a test, you should be able to play on a sousie with your hands in your pockets and your neck straight, or at least get really close. The less work your body's doing, the less tired you'll be, and the better you'll play and march.