You can use a wooden former or a metal rod to bend the body.
After dovetailing the brass, I cramp the strip in the jaws of the vice, you can use a piece of wood or steel to give you extra leverage. Small planes and thin brass you can bend easily.
You can use a sash cramp to finalize the bending.
Correct as shown.
Opening up the brass and inserting the bridge.
The body is cramped in the vice with the aid of 2 large washers, this gives clearence for the protuding tenons.