Onslaught of sousafonists
Equipped with sousaphone and hiking boots, numerous musicians made their way from Schwyz to Brunnen on May 19 and let their instruments ring out. The event was well received - more than the organizers had expected.
Nobody would have expected this just a few weeks ago: More than 150 sousaphonists gathered on the main square in Schwyz shortly before 10 a.m. to take part in the "9th Sousiwanderig" to Brunnen. While last year there were four hikers from the region, this year bassists from all over Switzerland and neighboring countries arrived - by train, car, camper van or even by car. The enthusiasm for this unique event could be clearly felt among the participants, who otherwise often feel like the stepchildren of Guggenmusik, right from the starting point. Shouts of "Sousafon" echoed through the streets of Schwyz and dozens of onlookers were on hand.
"This morning I said that if 60 people come, we've made it," said Bruno Föhn, who has been organizing the hike together with Patrick Reichmuth for six years. They publicized the event via a Facebook event and also had around 1000 flyers printed. However, they never in their wildest dreams expected so many participants to come. "We weren't worried about the crowds, but we approached the whole thing with a lot of respect. Where would all the people eat? How will we manage the traffic?"
Volunteers were quickly found to ensure that everything ran smoothly and a vehicle was organized to provide medical care during the hike. In cloudy weather and pleasant temperatures, the columns of four set off via Ibach, Oberschönenbuch, down the Himmelsleiter to Ingenbohl and finally to Brunnen on the lake. Excerpts of songs arranged by the organization were played, which could be downloaded via a link weeks before the event. These included sounds from "Lord of the Rings" and the chorus of Ottowan's "Hands Up". However, as the caravan stretched over several hundred meters at certain points, it was not always possible to hear exactly what was being played. Refreshments were provided along the way.
The weather was fine for a long time, but as soon as they arrived in Brunnen, the sousaphonists were greeted by heavy rain. Nevertheless, they performed the songs they had rehearsed once again for the audience, who also braved the weather.
Next year, the "10th Sousiwanderig" will take place. The organizers are once again expecting a large number of participants and have already come up with something special for the anniversary.
