Posted by jlb on August 07, 2003 at 12:57:59:
In Reply to: Re: Vintage Eb Buescher Helicon posted by Mary Ann on August 07, 2003 at 09:42:51:
From reading about it, I have learned that a Helicon is essentially similar to a Sousaphone, except the bell stack comes straight out over the left shoulder, instead of curling up. The Helicon design predates the Sousaphone design (which, therefore, is likely based on it) and the Helicon is reported to have been originally designed for horse mounted military bands. One piece of information I have picked up is that some players hold the opinion that the Helicon is easier to play than a Sousaphone, because it's balanced better and can be played with only one hand for the valves. Makes sense to me, since the other hand would be needed for the reins.
John (and that's the truth) Breyer