Tuba, Euphonium and Baritone Horn

Low brass instruments are often considered a sub-family of the brasses in general, as players may perform on more than one of these deep-voiced winds. The tuba is the largest, lowest and heaviest member of the group. The sousaphone was invented by John Philip Sousa to play the tuba part in marching bands, and is distinguished by circular tubing worn round the neck. The euphonium is sometimes called a tenor tuba, as it is pitched an octave higher than the tuba, but unlike the similar-ranged trombone, uses valves and is shaped like a tuba. The euphonium is associated with the British brass band tradition dating from the mid-1800s. The baritone horn is considered the US version of the euphonium, similar in shape and range but with a narrower bore, and hence a somewhat lighter and more piercing tone. The saxhorn was the brass invention of Adophe Saxe, inventor of the saxophone. The baritone saxhorn also has a narrower bore than the euphonium and is distinguished by a rear-facing bell. The saxhorn was also made in soprano, tenor, and bass ranges.