How to Choose a Clarinet Mouthpiece with Richard Hawkins

“Pick three pieces you're going to demonstrate on every mouthpiece. Something that shows technique, something lyrical, and something that shows range.” - Richard Hawkins
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About the Vocalise Mouthpiece:
Outstanding artist. Renowned educator. Master craftsman. Words and praise that are often bestowed upon Richard Hawkins. After decades of collecting, observing and crafting mouthpieces for many of the world’s finest artists, Hawkins collaborated with Backun Musical Services to develop a series of mouthpieces with tonal ring and clarity that will change the course of mouthpiece history.
Designed at Backun using advanced CAD/CAM software and tested with 3D printing technology, the mouthpieces are crafted on a highly advanced nine-axis CNC machine and finished in a unique done-in-one machining program that combines the milling and lathing processes without the need for a second setup or recalibration. This results in an exceptionally consistent mouthpiece that stays true to the original design.
Each mouthpiece helps the player centre articulation, pitch and altissimo, with impeccable ease and consistency of voicing. It is the first mouthpiece of its kind specifically designed to play well on both synthetic and cane reeds, in strengths 2.5 to 4.5. Articulation Management allows players to capture the appropriate length of articulations for different styles without increased effort. Pitch Locking allows players with varying instruments to lock in on an even pitch range between 440-442 with little variation in barrel length.
Designed for all ages and experience levels, the Vocalise series of B♭ mouthpieces features a model for every player and occasion, all of which belong in your clarinet case. Complex resonance at a reasonable price.
R Model B♭ - Close/Short
Evenness and a focus of sound that sings with ease are two characteristics of this close facing mouthpiece. The R allows artists to articulate with reduced effort, while ringing true with fabulous clarity. This is Hawkins’s choice for young artists looking to step up to a more complex mouthpiece.
G Model B♭ - Medium/Medium
A medium faced mouthpiece that combines exceptional evenness and round tonal complexity. The G has a smoother influence on interval connections just where you need it. An all-around mouthpiece for those who prefer medium facings and lengths.
H Model B♭ - Open/Long
The most open facing in the lineup, the H is both smooth and dark, with ample cushion for those who need more robust flexibility throughout the registers. This mouthpiece gives as much as it takes, requiring balanced breath support and unyielding passion in performance.
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[@tabbywarrior]

Agreed, but also tuning is super important. I'd prioritize these before tuning, but as we heard with the C's, they were far from in tune with each other. A skilled player like Hawkins would realistically adjust the tuning while performing or practicing, but I find this (I'll change my mind probably at some point) to be also a really important aspect of any equipment.

[@fernie51296]

Wow. Incredible clarity to his sound. What model is he playing here?

[@user-em3ks7ox4i]

I think G model.

[@emjay2045]

He stated the G. But that was months ago. Not sure if he’s switched or not since.

[@fernie51296]

@@emjay2045 I think he uses more than one model. I’ve seen him say he’s using the G and I’ve seen videos of him playing and saying he was using the H. Might be switching based on what he’s playing.

[@jerryhan4034]

I play on a backun alpha with moba bell and barrel

[@emjay2045]

How do you like the Moba bell & barrel on the Alpha ?

[@emjay2045]

Hello …. 😴 💤