WHAT MOUTHPIECE DO YOU PLAY?

Now here is a subject for brass players (trumpet players) that is a minefield. So much mis-information has been floating around about mouthpieces that I'm afraid that this article may only further muddy the waters.

Big mouthpieces (big sound - actually darker sound) shallow mouthpieces (high register) deep cup, shallow cup, you name it.  All of these dimensions and shapes have been considered rightfully or wrongfully. However for the purposes of this anecdote we won't travel down this alley.

Even top name recording artists of the day have gone down this frustrating road of "confusion".  Recently, Bobby Shew renowned Hollywood recording artist admits to playing three different trumpet mouthpieces.  In his words, "I try to use the mouthpiece that will give me the result that is required at that moment."

In other words, one piece for all manner of styles and technical requirements just doesn't cut it for him. Not everyone can switch mouthpieces and enjoy little or no disruption from the size differences as Bobby seems to advocate.

Some years ago, a friend of mine was visiting Bobby Hackett (cornetist) at his apartment. Hackett is from the Rhode Island area and well known for Jackie Gleason's album "For Lover's Only".   Bobby does an incredible job on these haunting standards backed by a lush string section.    This album showcases Bobby's artistry and is a great listening treat.

Well Bobby and his visiting friend got talking about mouthpieces. Both were trumpet players and it seemed like a good topic to discuss.  Bobby opened up a drawer in which contained what looked like a hundred mouthpieces in every shape and size made by an assortment of manufacturers.

Bobby grabbed a mouthpiece from this collection, stuck it in his horn and played some short lyrical melody.  He turned to his guest and asked, "Jerry... how does that sound?   Do you like how this mouthpiece sounds?"   His guest said, "Bobby, you sound like Bobby Hackett no matter what mouthpiece you play. It always sounds like you. It sounds great."

Some years ago, during the Big Band era two famous trumpet players were travelling by bus to their next gig.   The artists were Johnny Howell and renowned lead player Conrad Gozzo.     They sat by each other with Gozzo occupying the window seat.  

Johnny pulled out two mouthpieces and asked Gozzo for advice. (To this day Conrad Gozzo ranks as the top all-time lead trumpet player in that style and for years was on staff at Capitol Records.)  He said "Goz, Here's two mouthpieces I've been wrestling with.  They are almost identical and I can't make up my mind which one to stick with. I seem to be going around in circles. Got any suggestions?"

He handed Goz the mouthpieces in which Conrad carefully scrutinized and pondered. Then to his horror, Gozzo threw one of the mouthpieces out the window. Handing back the other mouthpiece he turned to Johnny,

"This is the mouthpiece I think you should stick with."

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