kadleck

BRM2 -

Great questions! You've obviously spent some time thinking about this.

Yes, you can learn to play a small piece, but it does take time. I agree with Rich and Bob: give the Findley piece a chance. You may find that you can work into it. Also, trumpetlore has a good point: it's the cup, not the rim that's an issue. Personally, I wouldn't start messing with rim sizes now. Just one change at a time. (Many players play wide rims with semi-shallow cups.)

Personally, I can't play one mouthpiece for everything. I end up sounding like a crass legit guy and a tubby commercial guy. (This is just MY opinion, for myself.) When I play in and orchestra I want a warm sound. When I'm in a big band I want a bright sound. For me, I need to play different set ups.

As for your questions:

Can I just force myself to learn how to play a shallower and tighter mouthpiece? Yes.

Will it affect my ability to switch to a legit mouthpiece like a Marcinkiewicz Proline B3 or a Curry 1B? Yes. Your practice time may have to increase.

Has anyone done this before? All the time.

What was your experience like? I have to spend time with both mouthpieces. I always start on the larger one and then work my way into the smaller one, doing the same routine on both.

Are there any tips you may have that will make the transition easier? Focus on trying to make the small piece sound like the bigger one. Try to establish a warm sound on the Findley. Start by playing very lightly.

Were you able to darken up the sound a little bit once you were adjusted to the mouthpiece? Absolutely.

Let us know what happens.

Thanks -
Tony