[Trombone-l] Assessing mouthpieces

[Tilman Klaeger]

Am Montag, 7. Januar 2008 schrieb Dave Demko:

> 	I'm not asking for specific mouthpiece recommendations so much as
> advice on an approach to evaluating mouthpieces. I'm not even sure I
> want to change, but I'd like to explore the possibilities in a
> systematic and sane way. Any suggestions?
> 	I'm planning to spring for some lessons for the sake of "course
> correction," and I'm thinking that a teacher's ears and guidance will
> be very useful in evaluating mouthpieces.
> 
> Thanks,
> Dave D.

Imho there are to many variables in mouthpieces to find a systematic way to 
your perfect mouthpiece. That´s why a lot of people have drawers full with 
mouthpieces at home.

This one way I tried: I used to play the stock Conn 5GR mouthpiece that came 
with my 88H, about 1 1/2 years ago I thought about getting something big, 
since I had more high range than I needed in the settings I was playing, and 
I really love low notes. So I got a Wick 3AL, and it felt comfortable, so I 
knew bigger was the right way to go. A couple months later I got a JK 1AK 
Mouthpiece (about 1G Size) I found on a show and it felt even better. So I 
believe I found a size that is working for me, I can play Pedals nearly like 
a bass, and still hit the high D. Now that I know what size I like I am going 
to try a heavy mouthpiece (the JK is really lightweight), I ordered a Stork 
1.5, but I´m still waiting for it. I´m curious how this experiment will end!

So maybe this is a way to go, it´s kind of systematic, but a lot of variables 
are simply left out, and will be very hard, if possible, to include.

Maybe this helps a little, but it´s not THE way to go, and I believe there is 
none, sadly. I´d be glad, if someone could correct me on that!!
 
  Tilman