How do you find the best mouthpiece for you? The Trumpet Prof demonstrates 11 different makes and sizes; discusses the qualities you should look for and how you can test for them.
Great briefing and the result is so obvious: We do not necessarily sound differently having chosen another mouthpiece, though we may feel better or worse. The sound we heard just now on those two different demonstrations of trumpet calisthenics was more or less identical though the feeling very likely for the performer was quite different. The difference in sound will happen once we also change the " amplifier" the horn....playing on a Vincent Bach 43 or as an alternative a heavy Monette or Inderbinen ( I play the Inox and Adam Rapa's Lotus tp) does change the sound dramatically! I play the same mouthpiece on my trumpets and my flugelhorn the deep v shape monette prana designed for the flumpet. The best result I could find...now for the past 12 years
That was an excellent video! I agree with all your points on approach, especially sound. Sound is the most important aspect of your playing for sure! I stress this to my students! A double high G doesn't mean anything if your sound is bad! Many thanks for the great video! I believe you sounded the best on the Bach 3C! Everything seemed to come together more evenly!
Thanks for the great mouthpiece discussion! Let me share my experiences. I had been using a Bach 1c on both my Bach Strad concert horn, and my Getzen Severinsen jazz horn. I took my Strad in to a great store (can I name it here?) to see if I could find a better mouthpiece. They had hundreds of trumpet mouthpieces in stock, from at least half dozen brands, and encouraged me to try any of them. They helped me be methodical narrowing down the options. I ended up with a Pickett 3. We tweaked the rim, throat and gap with their multi-piece Picketts until it was tuned in great. I was fortunate that the perfect combo was available in a much less expensive 1 piece unit. Not only did I believe my sound, range, response, intonation, and slotting were all improved over my Bach 1C, but my wife and I both reached that conclusion with “blind” switching of the many mouthpieces. I later found that my endurance has also significantly improved with this new Pickett. Now for the surprise, at least to me. The Pickett was a definite step down on my Getzen! I took the Getzen back to the store to repeat the process to find the right mouthpiece for me on that horn. Using similar mostly blind back and forth between the many mouthpieces, I ended up finding the Bach 1C my best match on that horn! The horn makes a big difference as to which is the best mouthpiece. Another surprise to me was how HUGE the difference a mouthpiece can make with a flugelhorn. Much bigger differences than on a trumpet. A flugelhorn mouthpiece can change the tone from very deep to almost trumpet like. It also has a very significant impact on intonation in both the high range and with pedal tones.
This is an amazing subject. I was just thinking about all the years I've played on the same mouthpiece for over 40 years. I have also tried others to see what it may do because of how someone else sounded and like you said in the beginning, some people can switch mouthpieces without it changing the sound except the style of the sound. I have went as far as taking old mouthpieces and modify them to create a comfortable placement. I have succeeded in just one and to realize it's almost the same as the what I have had. The fact that I can pick up any of my horns and play something after having time off from my leisure playing, my mouthpiece does not fail me. It's comfortable, reliable and most of all fits my needs without harming any structure. I love how you demonstrated the different sounds and see some of the notes being struggled to play just shows how important it is to sometimes stay with what works best. Thank you again for a wonderful demonstration and a wonderful topic. I have saved this and will share it with friends of mine. Great to see and hear you. Always remember, like I have said, you get what you put into it, time and patience and like you said, don't try to copy someone else. God bless.
@@TheTrumpetProf That is a great way to put it. Keep the support going with everything you do. Amazing how a topic like this can make you remember, when you find the right equipment, continue to fuel the machine, endurance and attitude. Even if I can't the hours of playing like I used to, the time I do, I continue to always start with a good warmup. This has helped to stay focused on position to just pick the horn up and start playing. Almost like the mouthpiece placement is automatic. Keep sharing. 👍🏻🎺
@@Bebop_man not a problem. It was one I ordered special. It is considered an, s2a with a cushioned rim. I had one made for my flugelhorn and cornets. I've taken others and modified them with emery paper and drilled the hole at the base of the cup along with flattening the rims then send out to get refinished. Back then it was 168.00 for what I wanted. If you get a chance to look up Adam Rapa and his Lotus trumpets along with his many designs that he does. From different styles of metals and so much more that he offers for many players. Of course he wasn't around back then doing what he does now. His horns and mouthpieces are amazing and when I listen to him or other players play on different mouthpieces with the different metals, I can hear the difference. Amazing how far they have come. I love what the trumpet professor does and enjoy what he shares. Everyone has different techniques etc. My style of playing is what I love and just learn to focus on what works or helps improve a little more. I hope you find something that works for you or other choices. Some music stores have areas to try a mouthpiece using your horn etc. Just like Adam Rapa does on his videos. It's great to watch others change things up and their response as well. Best of luck with your journey. 🎺🎺
@@davidharrison3074 Thank you very much for your detailed and useful response. I appreciate it very much. I like the idea of sticking with a mouthpiece that is comfortable and one likes its sound. The rest is a matter of diligent practice. And as you correctly mention, every individual has his or her style, sound and preferences. I play trumpet since 38 years, and have seldom changed my mouthpiece. My teacher who is now 82 and is a first rate talent is playing - as far as I know - since nearly 55 years with just one mouthpiece. Best Regards! And thanks again for the time taken.
At the moment, I am playing on a Yamaha 16c4 standard. I have had a few issues in cracking notes before this. This is an issue that doesn't seem to be talked about too much online. For years I was playing on a Bach 1C which I am thinking could be the main issue in this matter, as I was often missing the centre of the note. I also find the Yamaha mouthpiece more comfortable on the lips in general and the slightly smaller size generally allows me to centre a bit better. There was a period of time where I tried and tested a few mouthpiece brands and sizes. I was so indecisive and kept thinking that I found the perfect piece until the problem popped up again and again. After typing all this, would you say that I have made a smarter choice in settling on the Yamaha? My cracking problems on particular notes have somewhat disappeared.
Hey there, friend. I played trumpet in high school. I can honestly say, I was pretty good. I picked up my old Holton the other day and found that I’ve lost almost all of the muscle memory, embouchure, and endurance that I once had. My jaw and mouth muscles and lips as well wear out VERY quickly. Would you consider doing a video for musicians who are returning after a significant period of time? If not, do you have any specific exercises or other tips to help me get back to where I used to be? I’d love to build on the foundation I set in school. Btw it’s been over ten years since I played regularly.
Thanks for your comment Nicholas. You are not alone! Since starting this channel I've been so surprised by the amount of comeback/senior players wanting help. It actually makes a lot of sense when you think about it but this channel really brought it to my attention. I will do a video about this because at some point it will affect all of us. In the meantime here are a few things you can consider: Start using face cream at night. I use an aqua based cream but anything to help hydrate the facial muscles. Always warm up well. Low notes are best. Check out my Learn to Play Relaxed video. The drop and land exercise is great for warming up and you can use it to keep muscles relaxed during practice. Set some new habits. My Three Essential Tips video is a good place to start. Don't expect it to feel the same as it did. The body changes over time, especially teeth, so let go and let the trumpet do more of the work. Hope that helps for now. TP
Thank you for all your posts; I have taken away a lot, I think, from your videos as I find my way in the learning process. This was a very interesting video, but I had hoped for more guidance on MP to fit structure. I have thin not very fleshy lips and on my 3C I frequently find air is leaking out one side or the other of my bottom lip. I try not to press hard as I'm told that is a negative thing, especially for the teeth - I've noticed. I tried puckering a bit to get more meat for the MP to seal on but that isn't good through the whole scale range. I've read that a smaller MP is better for my lip structure, like a 9C. What are your thoughts on this?
Hi, thanks for your message. Unlike you I have very fleshy lips and for the first 25 years I could only play a large mouthpiece (Bach 1C / Monette B15). I tried smaller pieces but they cut out or made my lips swell. After changing the way I play I settled on a Denis Wick 4B although I can comfortably play other mouthpieces around that size and much smaller. My point here is; I have always had the same size lips but it is the way I play which determines the best choice of mouthpiece for me and not the size of my components. And that is why I don't feel it is right to give more specific advice online. So to answer your question, I would work on your technique a little and try to sort your issues that way to begin with. I see no reason why you shouldn't be able to play a 3C. If air is leaking it sounds like you need to strengthen your embouchure/scaffolding. Get hold of a sip straw (they come with small drink cartons) and blow through it as fast as you can without puffing out your cheeks. If you can do that without air leaking try to apply the same way of blowing when you play. You could slide the mouthpiece up the straw as you blow and rest it on your lips. That way you have the sensation of blowing without air leaking. Hope that helps. TP
Dear pr.paul ,i like very much your video.i have a problem i've some mouthpieces c-7 ,c-5,c4 ,c3 and i wont to choose the one that is the best for me to play high notes ,and i don't know how.can you please help me ? thanks a lot.
Thanks for sharing, amazing! This being the case, would be as easy to play cornet, flugelhorn and trumpet? Asking because I could not find a a decent dealer to buy a trumpet from so purchased a cornet and flugelhorn to practice on. Taken that it is not going to be detrimental to playing trumpet. Both the cornet and flugelhorn have a beautiful sound.
I'v studied already 8 yers of trumpet. No one did ever explain what makes the sound in the trumpet. Learning to buzz did not help me very well. The aha-erlebnis was there when you explained in a video that the sound comes from the upperlip who has to trill so many times to generate a tone. Thanks dear "Trumpet Prof"
Hi Timo. If you like the sound and it works in your environment then yes. The fit won't be great because it's not built for a trumpet receiver, and the tuning might be inconsistent, but if you like a deep mouthpiece and a more open throat/backbore then give it a go. If you get on OK you can always look for a trumpet mouthpiece with similar specs. I really like it too! TP
I am still on my mouthpiece safari. Am now on a VB 7c having played a Yamaha 14B4C and 14B4B which were on the large size for me but gave me a great sound. I have bought a VB 7D as the 7c is a bit sharp and uncomfortable but prefer the 7c for the sound i can make using it. The VB7D is a bit stuffy. How can deep cup VB7b or a VB7A work they will be lip killers .Stamina is a problem anything over 3/4 hrs and am shattered with a ring on my lip where the mouthpiece has been .Jens Lindemann recommends try smaller rather than larger but he doesnt say whether 1c to 7c or 7c to 20c . How small do you have to go? VB 10 3/4c seems to be a popular one but i dont want to waste more money if i cant get my lip inside the thing. . I am still trying to find range in the upper register above A on top of the stave although his has improved from just a G a few weeks ago. Bottom notes are an absolute breeze and i have a great sound on all the notes i play. . My tone am told is beautiful and pure so that suggests that the embouchure and mouthpiece placement is about right . I am a returning trumpet player after 40 years. I am 59 now. I have fleshy but not overly fleshy lips.I am getting better and stronger but i dont want to find i am still in the same situation in 5 years time. Never practiced so many hours in my life! Definitely getting better when a few weeks was ready to throw in the towel and concentrate on my saxophone! I played in a church last night and players in the band complimented that my tone was beautiful but a trumpet player who is struggling with stamina and cannot get above an A on top of the stave ie a range of just over 2 octaves is a bit rubbish really great tone or not. I therefore prefer a better range at the expense of of tone. I want to end up being lead trumpet not 3rd or 4th in a Big Band which i was 40 years ago!
Hi Michael. You will never find a mouthpiece that gives you range. Maybe for a few minutes, but that's no good to anyone. Range will come from technique. But just as most players spend years searching for the best mouthpiece, they also spend just as long searching for the right technique. I was once that player. Out of all the mouthpieces I demonstrated my absolute favorite is the Denis Wick 3F flugel mouthpiece. Not because it is Denis Wick, but because it is really deep and the clicks between harmonics (even to double C) are amazing. However, I can't use anything that deep because it doesn't make the right sound for what I do. The best players use the mouthpiece to refine not to rely. They don't use the lips to get high they allow the lips to respond. Efficient players use small mouthpieces even though they can use large ones. Yes, I also believe that range should be prioritized over sound but just not when choosing a mouthpiece.
Hi Prof, I have been playing a 1-1/4 C Bach mouthpiece for a long time. Recently I bought the Monette equivalent and for my flugelhorn I use a Stork with a similar rim. I really like the sound the mouthpiece gets but It takes work for me to articulate with my trumpet mouthpiece. Its much easier to do articulation on my flugel mouthpiece because of the deeper cup. Slurred arpeggios are also easier on the flugel mouthpiece. I have been playing on these mouthpieces for around 30 years. Is it possible to get a mouthpiece with a deeper cup without changing the rim size. What should I do to help my playing?
Yes, you can get a deeper cup and still keep the rim you use, you can even have the cup on your Bach piece modified to whatever spec's you'd like-Ken Titmus in Orlando does fantastic work
Could you discuss how to overcome "smile embouchure"? I'm trying the steps of your videos about playing higher notes, but I still notice that I still am pulling the corners of my lips further away from center in an attempt to make things tigher.
There are many ways to control pitch (changing air pressure, using high tongue, manipulating aperture, using mouthpiece pressure etc). Your goal should be to reduce facial/aperture control as much as possible by re-balancing another way. From low F sharp to high C there are 31 different pitches. The most efficient techniques change lip position just a few times over that range; like a car driving from 0- 140mph with only 5 gears. The more inefficient techniques will try to change lip position 31!, trying to "buzz" every single pitch. Watch this from 16:16 th-cam.com/video/ZzHNP4peTe8/w-d-xo.html The high tongue creates resistance for the air and you really need to feel that the air is restricted so you can blow/sigh against it. But most importantly you SHOULD try to move the tongue into 31 different pitch positions when moving from low F sharp to high C. There is your re balance. It will take you some time to work it out. You will need to experiment, but as long as you are experimenting around these two fundamental ideas (resistance / pitch whisper) you won't be wasting your time. I would also encourage you to work in front of a mirror. That way you can try to "stop" your corners moving which will motivate more positive changes. Good luck. TP
After playing on the Monette B2S3 for several months (a very good mouthpiece), I ended up trying the Lotus line of mouthpieces that Adam Rapa produces, and right now they seem to be helping me in ways that the Monette did not. The throat is slightly smaller, and the one I’ve chosen is a Nickel-Silver model 1L (equivalent to a Bach 1.25). The Nickel-Silver causes the sound to be a bit more directional, which is closer to the kind of sound I was looking for (a little more Severinsen-like, if you will). Like any mouthpiece, there’s always give and take, and for this one, when I begin to tire, the sound can become a bit too bright, but is also a good indicator that I need to rest. I appreciate all your advice about your Monette that helped me to adjust to mine and to the Lotus (that uses the same concept). Are you still satisfied with your B4S S2? I notice also that you’re using a different horn; was that for the purpose of this video?
Hi Nick. Sorry for the late response. I really appreciate your views and I'm sure other players will too. Yes, still happy with the B4S S2 although I'm always open minded with both technique and equipment so who knows what I'll be playing this time next year! I used the Eastar beginner trumpet (which I reviewed) because even though it's a decent instrument it's a long way from my Shires and therefore keeps the video more mouthpiece focused. It's still a turbulent time for me but I'm planning to push the channel a bit more very soon. TP
Hi Stephen. Stretching or pulling the lips open vertically is very different from stretching them horizontally. Never rule anything out until you've tried it and beware of trumpet myths! TP
I need some advice. I am a young 72 yrs old who’s been playing a Bach 1.5C on a Bach 37 ML bore for over fifty years. At 69, I decided to get braces to realign my teeth and I just got them off two weeks ago. I have been surprised at the progress I’ve made in just two weeks, however, they aligned my teeth perfectly but the 1.5 just doesn’t feel the same in the upper register. I know that it’s only been two weeks but I would like to think there may be a transition size that would make the upper register just a little easier and still keep that big sound. This would be the perfect time to change as I would have plenty of time to get used to the new mouthpiece. I would not have a problem paying for the Monette mouthpiece but I also know that you can’t expect miracles from just the mouthpiece. What are your thoughts ?
Hi Chris. Changes in the alignment of your teeth could be the reason for the loss in range and not necessarily the 1.5C. The teeth change the current/flow of the air against the lips which changes the way they vibrate. It's almost impossible to advise you on a mpc without seeing your teeth. I would stick with the 1.5C for now and see if things improve. If they don't, then you can look at getting something else. In my opinion the teeth are the reason players have the ability they have and any changes to the contour of them will require re-balancing elsewhere. Hope that helps. TP
@@TheTrumpetProf thanks for the reply. The braces worked and aligned my teeth perfectly and probably better than when I was young. I’ll just take time and keep practicing. I have more like a Louis Armstrong type of embouchure and certainly a lot better teeth than some really great trumpet players I’ve seen. Thanks again and I’ll keep watching your videos!😊
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Every time I hear a Monette mouthpiece in a comparison, I stare at my wallet and picture it at half it's thickness.
Yea those monettes are bullies lolol
Nice to finally see another person who packs a video full of information. You got right to the point less than 3 minutes into the video- love it!
You're a fantastic teacher Paul!
Glad to see you are making vidz again!
Thanks Paul, excellent video, I learned a lot!
Complimentes Paul. Good and amazing video. 👍👍👍👍👍
Great briefing and the result is so obvious: We do not necessarily sound differently having chosen another mouthpiece, though we may feel better or worse. The sound we heard just now on those two different demonstrations of trumpet calisthenics was more or less identical though the feeling very likely for the performer was quite different. The difference in sound will happen once we also change the " amplifier" the horn....playing on a Vincent Bach 43 or as an alternative a heavy Monette or Inderbinen ( I play the Inox and Adam Rapa's Lotus tp) does change the sound dramatically! I play the same mouthpiece on my trumpets and my flugelhorn the deep v shape monette prana designed for the flumpet. The best result I could find...now for the past 12 years
That was an excellent video! I agree with all your points on approach, especially sound. Sound is the most important aspect of your playing for sure! I stress this to my students! A double high G doesn't mean anything if your sound is bad! Many thanks for the great video! I believe you sounded the best on the Bach 3C! Everything seemed to come together more evenly!
Thanks for your kind words - much appreciated. I'm now going to think about my mouthpiece choice again! TP
Really helpful thanks 🎺🇬🇧
Thank you vary helpful
I really enjoyed all of your comments.
Thanks for the great mouthpiece discussion! Let me share my experiences. I had been using a Bach 1c on both my Bach Strad concert horn, and my Getzen Severinsen jazz horn. I took my Strad in to a great store (can I name it here?) to see if I could find a better mouthpiece. They had hundreds of trumpet mouthpieces in stock, from at least half dozen brands, and encouraged me to try any of them. They helped me be methodical narrowing down the options. I ended up with a Pickett 3. We tweaked the rim, throat and gap with their multi-piece Picketts until it was tuned in great. I was fortunate that the perfect combo was available in a much less expensive 1 piece unit. Not only did I believe my sound, range, response, intonation, and slotting were all improved over my Bach 1C, but my wife and I both reached that conclusion with “blind” switching of the many mouthpieces. I later found that my endurance has also significantly improved with this new Pickett. Now for the surprise, at least to me. The Pickett was a definite step down on my Getzen! I took the Getzen back to the store to repeat the process to find the right mouthpiece for me on that horn. Using similar mostly blind back and forth between the many mouthpieces, I ended up finding the Bach 1C my best match on that horn! The horn makes a big difference as to which is the best mouthpiece. Another surprise to me was how HUGE the difference a mouthpiece can make with a flugelhorn. Much bigger differences than on a trumpet. A flugelhorn mouthpiece can change the tone from very deep to almost trumpet like. It also has a very significant impact on intonation in both the high range and with pedal tones.
Thank you for posting Paul. This inspired me to do some practice!!!
Gotta say though, that pTrumpet 7c sounded great!! Seriously!!
@@nickwright9064 Yes it felt good too. Maybe I'll start using it!!
I currently use a Bach Artisan 3 C. It’s old school Mt Vernon cup 3. I’m looking at the Monette B4SS2
This is an amazing subject. I was just thinking about all the years I've played on the same mouthpiece for over 40 years. I have also tried others to see what it may do because of how someone else sounded and like you said in the beginning, some people can switch mouthpieces without it changing the sound except the style of the sound. I have went as far as taking old mouthpieces and modify them to create a comfortable placement. I have succeeded in just one and to realize it's almost the same as the what I have had.
The fact that I can pick up any of my horns and play something after having time off from my leisure playing, my mouthpiece does not fail me. It's comfortable, reliable and most of all fits my needs without harming any structure. I love how you demonstrated the different sounds and see some of the notes being struggled to play just shows how important it is to sometimes stay with what works best. Thank you again for a wonderful demonstration and a wonderful topic. I have saved this and will share it with friends of mine. Great to see and hear you. Always remember, like I have said, you get what you put into it, time and patience and like you said, don't try to copy someone else. God bless.
David, thank you, it's great to hear from you too. After 40 years I'd say you probably have the perfect marriage! Best, Paul
@@TheTrumpetProf That is a great way to put it. Keep the support going with everything you do. Amazing how a topic like this can make you remember, when you find the right equipment, continue to fuel the machine, endurance and attitude.
Even if I can't the hours of playing like I used to, the time I do, I continue to always start with a good warmup. This has helped to stay focused on position to just pick the horn up and start playing. Almost like the mouthpiece placement is automatic. Keep sharing. 👍🏻🎺
Hi David! May I ask you with what mouthpiece you have been playing for 40 years?
@@Bebop_man not a problem.
It was one I ordered special. It is considered an, s2a with a cushioned rim.
I had one made for my flugelhorn and cornets. I've taken others and modified them with emery paper and drilled the hole at the base of the cup along with flattening the rims then send out to get refinished. Back then it was 168.00 for what I wanted. If you get a chance to look up Adam Rapa and his Lotus trumpets along with his many designs that he does. From different styles of metals and so much more that he offers for many players. Of course he wasn't around back then doing what he does now. His horns and mouthpieces are amazing and when I listen to him or other players play on different mouthpieces with the different metals, I can hear the difference. Amazing how far they have come. I love what the trumpet professor does and enjoy what he shares. Everyone has different techniques etc. My style of playing is what I love and just learn to focus on what works or helps improve a little more. I hope you find something that works for you or other choices. Some music stores have areas to try a mouthpiece using your horn etc. Just like Adam Rapa does on his videos. It's great to watch others change things up and their response as well. Best of luck with your journey. 🎺🎺
@@davidharrison3074 Thank you very much for your detailed and useful response. I appreciate it very much. I like the idea of sticking with a mouthpiece that is comfortable and one likes its sound. The rest is a matter of diligent practice. And as you correctly mention, every individual has his or her style, sound and preferences. I play trumpet since 38 years, and have seldom changed my mouthpiece. My teacher who is now 82 and is a first rate talent is playing - as far as I know - since nearly 55 years with just one mouthpiece. Best Regards! And thanks again for the time taken.
At the moment, I am playing on a Yamaha 16c4 standard. I have had a few issues in cracking notes before this. This is an issue that doesn't seem to be talked about too much online. For years I was playing on a Bach 1C which I am thinking could be the main issue in this matter, as I was often missing the centre of the note. I also find the Yamaha mouthpiece more comfortable on the lips in general and the slightly smaller size generally allows me to centre a bit better. There was a period of time where I tried and tested a few mouthpiece brands and sizes. I was so indecisive and kept thinking that I found the perfect piece until the problem popped up again and again. After typing all this, would you say that I have made a smarter choice in settling on the Yamaha? My cracking problems on particular notes have somewhat disappeared.
very good advice, indeed; I wonder it applies to french horn players like me. regardings from Brazil!
Hi, yes I think it does apply to all brass instruments. It's very general advice. Hope to visit Brazil one day!
Hey there, friend. I played trumpet in high school. I can honestly say, I was pretty good. I picked up my old Holton the other day and found that I’ve lost almost all of the muscle memory, embouchure, and endurance that I once had. My jaw and mouth muscles and lips as well wear out VERY quickly. Would you consider doing a video for musicians who are returning after a significant period of time? If not, do you have any specific exercises or other tips to help me get back to where I used to be? I’d love to build on the foundation I set in school. Btw it’s been over ten years since I played regularly.
Thanks for your comment Nicholas. You are not alone! Since starting this channel I've been so surprised by the amount of comeback/senior players wanting help. It actually makes a lot of sense when you think about it but this channel really brought it to my attention. I will do a video about this because at some point it will affect all of us. In the meantime here are a few things you can consider:
Start using face cream at night. I use an aqua based cream but anything to help hydrate the facial muscles.
Always warm up well. Low notes are best. Check out my Learn to Play Relaxed video. The drop and land exercise is great for warming up and you can use it to keep muscles relaxed during practice.
Set some new habits. My Three Essential Tips video is a good place to start.
Don't expect it to feel the same as it did. The body changes over time, especially teeth, so let go and let the trumpet do more of the work.
Hope that helps for now. TP
Would love to see that video for people picking up the horn again after many years.
Thank you for all your posts; I have taken away a lot, I think, from your videos as I find my way in the learning process. This was a very interesting video, but I had hoped for more guidance on MP to fit structure. I have thin not very fleshy lips and on my 3C I frequently find air is leaking out one side or the other of my bottom lip. I try not to press hard as I'm told that is a negative thing, especially for the teeth - I've noticed. I tried puckering a bit to get more meat for the MP to seal on but that isn't good through the whole scale range. I've read that a smaller MP is better for my lip structure, like a 9C. What are your thoughts on this?
Hi, thanks for your message. Unlike you I have very fleshy lips and for the first 25 years I could only play a large mouthpiece (Bach 1C / Monette B15). I tried smaller pieces but they cut out or made my lips swell. After changing the way I play I settled on a Denis Wick 4B although I can comfortably play other mouthpieces around that size and much smaller.
My point here is; I have always had the same size lips but it is the way I play which determines the best choice of mouthpiece for me and not the size of my components. And that is why I don't feel it is right to give more specific advice online.
So to answer your question, I would work on your technique a little and try to sort your issues that way to begin with. I see no reason why you shouldn't be able to play a 3C. If air is leaking it sounds like you need to strengthen your embouchure/scaffolding. Get hold of a sip straw (they come with small drink cartons) and blow through it as fast as you can without puffing out your cheeks. If you can do that without air leaking try to apply the same way of blowing when you play. You could slide the mouthpiece up the straw as you blow and rest it on your lips. That way you have the sensation of blowing without air leaking.
Hope that helps. TP
Dear pr.paul ,i like very much your video.i have a problem i've some mouthpieces c-7 ,c-5,c4 ,c3 and i wont to choose the one that is the best for me to play high notes ,and i don't know how.can you please help me ? thanks a lot.
Thanks for sharing, amazing! This being the case, would be as easy to play cornet, flugelhorn and trumpet? Asking because I could not find a a decent dealer to buy a trumpet from so purchased a cornet and flugelhorn to practice on. Taken that it is not going to be detrimental to playing trumpet. Both the cornet and flugelhorn have a beautiful sound.
I'v studied already 8 yers of trumpet. No one did ever explain what makes the sound in the trumpet. Learning to buzz did not help me very well. The aha-erlebnis was there when you explained in a video that the sound comes from the upperlip who has to trill so many times to generate a tone. Thanks dear "Trumpet Prof"
Hi
Loved the sound of the Flugel 3F!
Is it recommendable to play a Flugel mouthpiece on a trumpet?
Thank you!
Hi Timo. If you like the sound and it works in your environment then yes. The fit won't be great because it's not built for a trumpet receiver, and the tuning might be inconsistent, but if you like a deep mouthpiece and a more open throat/backbore then give it a go. If you get on OK you can always look for a trumpet mouthpiece with similar specs.
I really like it too! TP
@@TheTrumpetProf Thank you so much for the answer! :)
I think I'll try it.
Do you have any trumpet mouthhpieces with similar specs in mind?
Super informative.. thanks.. Do you know of a shop in London where it's possible to try a range of mouth pieces?
Hi. Yes, Prozone Music in Chesham or Phil Parker Brass in Aldgate.
. . .although not sure if testing is happening again after Covid.
Thanks.. I'll give them a call...
I am still on my mouthpiece safari. Am now on a VB 7c having played a Yamaha 14B4C and 14B4B which were on the large size for me but gave me a great sound. I have bought a VB 7D as the 7c is a bit sharp and uncomfortable but prefer the 7c for the sound i can make using it. The VB7D is a bit stuffy. How can deep cup VB7b or a VB7A work they will be lip killers .Stamina is a problem anything over 3/4 hrs and am shattered with a ring on my lip where the mouthpiece has been .Jens Lindemann recommends try smaller rather than larger but he doesnt say whether 1c to 7c or 7c to 20c . How small do you have to go? VB 10 3/4c seems to be a popular one but i dont want to waste more money if i cant get my lip inside the thing. . I am still trying to find range in the upper register above A on top of the stave although his has improved from just a G a few weeks ago. Bottom notes are an absolute breeze and i have a great sound on all the notes i play. . My tone am told is beautiful and pure so that suggests that the embouchure and mouthpiece placement is about right . I am a returning trumpet player after 40 years. I am 59 now. I have fleshy but not overly fleshy lips.I am getting better and stronger but i dont want to find i am still in the same situation in 5 years time. Never practiced so many hours in my life! Definitely getting better when a few weeks was ready to throw in the towel and concentrate on my saxophone! I played in a church last night and players in the band complimented that my tone was beautiful but a trumpet player who is struggling with stamina and cannot get above an A on top of the stave ie a range of just over 2 octaves is a bit rubbish really great tone or not. I therefore prefer a better range at the expense of of tone. I want to end up being lead trumpet not 3rd or 4th in a Big Band which i was 40 years ago!
Hi Michael. You will never find a mouthpiece that gives you range. Maybe for a few minutes, but that's no good to anyone. Range will come from technique. But just as most players spend years searching for the best mouthpiece, they also spend just as long searching for the right technique. I was once that player.
Out of all the mouthpieces I demonstrated my absolute favorite is the Denis Wick 3F flugel mouthpiece. Not because it is Denis Wick, but because it is really deep and the clicks between harmonics (even to double C) are amazing. However, I can't use anything that deep because it doesn't make the right sound for what I do.
The best players use the mouthpiece to refine not to rely. They don't use the lips to get high they allow the lips to respond. Efficient players use small mouthpieces even though they can use large ones. Yes, I also believe that range should be prioritized over sound but just not when choosing a mouthpiece.
Hi Prof, I have been playing a 1-1/4 C Bach mouthpiece for a long time. Recently I bought the Monette equivalent and for my flugelhorn I use a Stork with a similar rim. I really like the sound the mouthpiece gets but It takes work for me to articulate with my trumpet mouthpiece. Its much easier to do articulation on my flugel mouthpiece because of the deeper cup. Slurred arpeggios are also easier on the flugel mouthpiece. I have been playing on these mouthpieces for around 30 years. Is it possible to get a mouthpiece with a deeper cup without changing the rim size. What should I do to help my playing?
Yes, you can get a deeper cup and still keep the rim you use, you can even have the cup on your Bach piece modified to whatever spec's you'd like-Ken Titmus in Orlando does fantastic work
trompet öğreniyorum ancak dudaklarım kalın rica etsem hangi ağızlığı tavsiye edersiniz teşekkür ederim
Could you discuss how to overcome "smile embouchure"? I'm trying the steps of your videos about playing higher notes, but I still notice that I still am pulling the corners of my lips further away from center in an attempt to make things tigher.
There are many ways to control pitch (changing air pressure, using high tongue, manipulating aperture, using mouthpiece pressure etc). Your goal should be to reduce facial/aperture control as much as possible by re-balancing another way. From low F sharp to high C there are 31 different pitches. The most efficient techniques change lip position just a few times over that range; like a car driving from 0- 140mph with only 5 gears. The more inefficient techniques will try to change lip position 31!, trying to "buzz" every single pitch.
Watch this from 16:16
th-cam.com/video/ZzHNP4peTe8/w-d-xo.html
The high tongue creates resistance for the air and you really need to feel that the air is restricted so you can blow/sigh against it. But most importantly you SHOULD try to move the tongue into 31 different pitch positions when moving from low F sharp to high C. There is your re balance.
It will take you some time to work it out. You will need to experiment, but as long as you are experimenting around these two fundamental ideas (resistance / pitch whisper) you won't be wasting your time.
I would also encourage you to work in front of a mirror. That way you can try to "stop" your corners moving which will motivate more positive changes.
Good luck. TP
Find a little booklet called "The Balanced Embouchure". All will become clear.
After playing on the Monette B2S3 for several months (a very good mouthpiece), I ended up trying the Lotus line of mouthpieces that Adam Rapa produces, and right now they seem to be helping me in ways that the Monette did not. The throat is slightly smaller, and the one I’ve chosen is a Nickel-Silver model 1L (equivalent to a Bach 1.25). The Nickel-Silver causes the sound to be a bit more directional, which is closer to the kind of sound I was looking for (a little more Severinsen-like, if you will). Like any mouthpiece, there’s always give and take, and for this one, when I begin to tire, the sound can become a bit too bright, but is also a good indicator that I need to rest. I appreciate all your advice about your Monette that helped me to adjust to mine and to the Lotus (that uses the same concept). Are you still satisfied with your B4S S2? I notice also that you’re using a different horn; was that for the purpose of this video?
Hi Nick. Sorry for the late response. I really appreciate your views and I'm sure other players will too.
Yes, still happy with the B4S S2 although I'm always open minded with both technique and equipment so who knows what I'll be playing this time next year! I used the Eastar beginner trumpet (which I reviewed) because even though it's a decent instrument it's a long way from my Shires and therefore keeps the video more mouthpiece focused. It's still a turbulent time for me but I'm planning to push the channel a bit more very soon. TP
Solid video! Stretching the chops before playing would thin the cushion. This can make your response worse.
Hi Stephen. Stretching or pulling the lips open vertically is very different from stretching them horizontally. Never rule anything out until you've tried it and beware of trumpet myths! TP
I need some advice. I am a young 72 yrs old who’s been playing a Bach 1.5C on a Bach 37 ML bore for over fifty years. At 69, I decided to get braces to realign my teeth and I just got them off two weeks ago. I have been surprised at the progress I’ve made in just two weeks, however, they aligned my teeth perfectly but the 1.5 just doesn’t feel the same in the upper register. I know that it’s only been two weeks but I would like to think there may be a transition size that would make the upper register just a little easier and still keep that big sound. This would be the perfect time to change as I would have plenty of time to get used to the new mouthpiece. I would not have a problem paying for the Monette mouthpiece but I also know that you can’t expect miracles from just the mouthpiece. What are your thoughts ?
Hi Chris. Changes in the alignment of your teeth could be the reason for the loss in range and not necessarily the 1.5C. The teeth change the current/flow of the air against the lips which changes the way they vibrate. It's almost impossible to advise you on a mpc without seeing your teeth. I would stick with the 1.5C for now and see if things improve. If they don't, then you can look at getting something else. In my opinion the teeth are the reason players have the ability they have and any changes to the contour of them will require re-balancing elsewhere. Hope that helps. TP
@@TheTrumpetProf thanks for the reply. The braces worked and aligned my teeth perfectly and probably better than when I was young. I’ll just take time and keep practicing. I have more like a Louis Armstrong type of embouchure and certainly a lot better teeth than some really great trumpet players I’ve seen. Thanks again and I’ll keep watching your videos!😊
I play best on a Bach Mt Vernon 7 C . I’m a come back player
Uh oh here you go getting me all excited about buying more gear again....
Sorry!!
Save your money. Buy a Monette
Almost no actionable advice
Really?? Look at the title and watch again my friend. Based on the comments so far I think you are missing something.
What are you on about? Loads of info you can act on.
You must be deaf!