(offbeat) suggestion for covering "low C" on Zarathustra

[bloke]

If playing Zarathustra in an orchestra (with no contrabassoon, nor organ, nor any basses with extensions, nor a 2nd tuba on board)...even if just the "Einleitung, oder Sonnenaufgang" (the part everyone recognizes) - and you're asked to supply the "low C"...
...If you have a compensating euphonium, consider supplying that pitch on that instrument - and with a smaller mouthpiece (such as 6-1/2, etc.)
It will be easier to play it as "not-loud" and with a "smaller" sound (more resembling a contrabassoon). Also, it should be easier to hold out that pitch for a longer length of time.

Switch to tuba during bar #14, and come in on tuba (the big subdominant chord) in bar #15.

Otherwise, (though it occurs to MD's to ask the tuba, because it is such a low pitch) consider handing it off to the bass trombonist, and graciously suggest using a cup mute.

[matt g]

With the older Mirafone fifth valve (two whole step), I could play that low C on my 188 really really quiet with all five valves employed (and slides pulled appropriately) and it had a little more “grumble” than open low C. The additional impedance/back pressure made for a good bit more economy of breath as well.

[grayax]

I play a BBb, so 1-2-3-4 and hope that I have it in tune.

At some point, I will add a 5th valve to mine, so that should help a bit.

[groovlow]

How many DB ?
Get a couple of the bass players to double stop C and G on A and D string.
If they can get the touch and pitch the low C will sound.
Tuba for you. If you have to breathe take it
Joe H

[GC]

Talk a bass into downtuning to C.