Which brass instrument is named after composer John Philip Sousa?

The sousaphone is the brass instrument named after composer and bandleader John Philip Sousa.

Sousa wanted a bass instrument that could project effectively in marching and concert bands while resting comfortably around the player’s body. Instrument maker J. W. Pepper built an early version in the 1890s, and the design became associated with Sousa’s name.

A sousaphone is a circular-wrapped form of tuba. Its large bell points forward, helping the sound project toward an audience or parade route. The instrument is normally supported by the player’s shoulder and body rather than held entirely in the hands.

Although sousaphones are strongly associated with marching bands, they are also used in some other ensembles. They generally use three valves, like many tubas, and are commonly made from brass or lighter modern materials. The sousaphone is not simply a different name for every marching tuba; its wraparound body and forward-facing bell define its recognizable form.