TrumpetMaster - View Single Post - Does anyone else have problems getting mutes to play in tune

2LIP · 03-12-2004, 06:20 PM

I just purchased a new straight mute from WW/BW and there was information on the side of the box RE intonation and how to change it so it plays in tune for your horn. I am trying to remember this as the box is at home. My harmon used to play very sharp and went in the bell too far so it made it sound really soft and not much like a harmon mute. I went to the arts/crafts store and purchased some rubberized tack stuff and built up the "cork" area with this stuff. I first removed the cork and used "Goo B Gone" to get rid of the adhesive that was left. Then I added the first layer. Tested the horn open and mute in. Still sharp, so I added another layer of rubber which is pretty thin stuff. You need to cut this a bit longer so you don't have a gap like I had. The second layer did the trick. The mute sounds better, and plays right on in tune. I then tested my new straight mute and found that the new corks bring it right in tune. I now have to replace the corks on my straight to bring it further out of the bell to get it where it belongs. Bottom line is you need a tuner and some patience, but you should be able to tweak your mutes to play in tune so you don't have to fool with your tuning slide when playing through quick changes in a pit orchestra.

Mitch "The LIP"

03-12-2004, 06:20 PM	#4 (permalink)
2LIP New Friend Join Date: Nov 2003 Posts: 38	Mute Intonation I just purchased a new straight mute from WW/BW and there was information on the side of the box RE intonation and how to change it so it plays in tune for your horn. I am trying to remember this as the box is at home. My harmon used to play very sharp and went in the bell too far so it made it sound really soft and not much like a harmon mute. I went to the arts/crafts store and purchased some rubberized tack stuff and built up the "cork" area with this stuff. I first removed the cork and used "Goo B Gone" to get rid of the adhesive that was left. Then I added the first layer. Tested the horn open and mute in. Still sharp, so I added another layer of rubber which is pretty thin stuff. You need to cut this a bit longer so you don't have a gap like I had. The second layer did the trick. The mute sounds better, and plays right on in tune. I then tested my new straight mute and found that the new corks bring it right in tune. I now have to replace the corks on my straight to bring it further out of the bell to get it where it belongs. Bottom line is you need a tuner and some patience, but you should be able to tweak your mutes to play in tune so you don't have to fool with your tuning slide when playing through quick changes in a pit orchestra. Mitch "The LIP" __________________ Kanstul ZKT 1600 1957 Olds Studio Cousesnon Flugel