Quote:
Originally Posted by rowuk  The only meaningful test is on the horn you will be using the mouthpiece with (unless the store can create uncertainty about your present trumpet - leading to the next promise of instant virtuosity and urge to spend money!!). The interaction between mouthpiece and horn is sometimes more fickle than an intimate relationship. |
TRUE, TRUE, TRUE!!! Arthur Benade had a good test for matching the mouthpiece to the horn. One plays a number of crescendos on open notes, and plays "neutral," letting the pitch rise or fall as it wants. If the pitch rises, the backbore is too large, if it falls, it is too small. If it says the same, it is just right. Also to be tested is the intonation, and once again, we should play neutral. Although we may be seeking increased range, a bigger sound, more flexibility and whatever else on our list with a new mouthpiece, if we can't play it in tune, it is worthless. Have fun searching!