Gear
Trevor's Gear
Bb Trumpet:
C Trumpet:
Mouthpieces:
Vincent Bach 3C for classical playing
Curry 60M for Jazz/Lead playing
Mutes:
Straight Mute: Tom Crown Straight Mute
Straight Mute (soft): TrumCor Lyric Mute
Cup Mute: Dennis Wick Adjustable Cup Mute
Harmon Mute: Jo Ral Copper Bubble Mute
Plunger Mute: Designer Sink Plunger
Case
Mouthpiece quick reference guide
In general, a trumpet mouthpiece with a deeper cup, such as the Bach 1.5C, tends to produce a darker and more open tone. On the other hand, a mouthpiece with a shallower cup, like the Shilke 14A4A, typically produces more brilliant and pointed tones, particularly suited for enhancing the upper register. A mouthpiece with a standard cup depth, such as the 5C or 3C, is often preferred for its versatility and ability to accommodate a range of playing styles and performance requirements.
It is true that many trumpeters use Bach sizing as a reference when selecting mouthpieces, even from different manufacturers. This practice is primarily based on tradition and familiarity. Over the years, Bach mouthpieces have become widely recognized and used as a standard for comparison due to their popularity and long-standing reputation. However, it's important to note that mouthpiece designs can vary among manufacturers, and it's always advisable for trumpeters to try different mouthpieces to find the one that best suits their individual playing preferences and needs.
Key: MS = Middle School HS = High School
Model No. | in "Bach" | Features | Purpose | Typical skill level
Bach 1.5C | - | large diameter, for larger lips | Good, dark Tone, makes upper register difficult | HS/College
Bach 3C | - | Middle of the road mouthpiece | Decent tone, decent range; good for a decent player | HS/advanced MS
Bach 5C | - | Similar to 3C | Mouthpiece for shifting from beginner to advanced | MS+
Bach 7C | - | Beginner piece, easy to play | Standard beginner piece, NOT FOR RANGE | MS+
Bach 7E | - | 7C but shallow | Intended for high register, THE piccolo mouthpiece | College
Bach 10.5C | - | Shallow mouthpiece | Intended for high register, not very common | HS/College
Model No. | in "Bach" | Features | Purpose | Typical skill level
Yamaha 16C4 | 1.5C | See 1.5C | This is Yamaha's 1.5C, comes with a Xeno | HS/College
Yamaha 14B4 | 3C | Middle of the road | This is Yamaha's 3C | HS+
Yamaha 11B4 | 7D | Beginner piece | This is Yamaha's 7C, comes with beginner horns | MS+
Model No. | in "Bach" | Features | Purpose | Typical skill level
Shilke 15 | 1.5C | large diameter, for larger lips | Good, dark Tone, makes upper register difficult | HS/College
Shilke 14B | 3C | Middle of the road mouthpiece | Decent tone, decent range; good for a decent player | HS+
Shilke 14A4a | 3D? | Shallow cup for high playing | shallow/jazz lead only, starter "lead" mouthpiece | HS+
Shilke 14C2 | 7C | Beginner piece, easy to play | Standard beginner piece, NOT FOR RANGE | MS+
Shilke 13A4a | 7D | 7C if it was a lead piece | 14A4a but for thinner lips | College/Recommendation
Shilke 6A4a | - | extra shallow lead mouthpiece | Not for your average student, extreme upper register | College/Recommendation
Model No. | in "Bach" | Features | Purpose | Typical skill level
Curry 60M | 3D | Shallow cup but 3C rim | Great for jazz lead player with bigger lips | HS+
Denis Wick = Denis Wick Mouthpieces are directly related to the Bach mouthpiece sizing
Trumpet Buying Guide
Please note that the specific models and prices of trumpets can vary over time, so it is always recommended to research and try out different options before making a purchase decision.
Beginner Trumpets
Beginner trumpets are designed for new players who are just starting their musical journey. These models are generally more affordable and offer features that aid learning and development. They often have a durable construction and easier playability at the cost of sound.
Intermediate Trumpets
It can indeed be challenging to recommend intermediate trumpets due to the price-to-performance ratio. Beginner trumpets are generally priced lower and may not produce the same level of sound quality as professional instruments. Intermediate trumpets fall somewhere in between, but comparing them can be difficult as brands sometimes price new intermediate models similar to used professional ones in the market.
In terms of playing abilities, intermediate trumpets may not offer the same level of sound quality as professional instruments and can be more challenging to play compared to typical beginner trumpets. These models are often very similar to professional models, and in some cases, could be a "failed" version of a professional horn. However, there are some popular intermediate trumpet models that can be referenced if one finds them at the right price.
Professional Trumpets
Professional trumpets are crafted to meet the demands of experienced players, including advanced techniques, professional performances, and studio recordings. These models are constructed with the highest quality materials, meticulous attention to detail, and superior craftsmanship. Professional trumpets often offer exceptional tonal range, projection, and intonation. As a result, they tend to be more expensive and may be more difficult to play for a less experienced player. It is recommended to purchase a professional trumpet once a player has achieved a high level of proficiency and intends to have a lifelong relationship with their instrument. This is usually the final trumpet purchased in a players career.
Beyond Professional
While the professional-level trumpets are already top-tier instruments designed to meet the needs of advanced players, there are a few reasons why someone might consider getting an artist or custom trumpet, which are even higher-end models. Here are a few possible reasons:
Unique Sound and Personalization: These trumpets offer customization options, allowing players to tailor the instrument to their tonal preferences and achieve a unique sound.
Enhanced Projection and Resonance: Artist or Custom trumpets are meticulously crafted to maximize projection, resonance, and tonal quality, delivering a powerful and precise sound.
Specialized Playing Styles: These trumpets cater to specific playing styles or genres, providing features that suit the player's needs, such as bore sizes or designs optimized for flexibility, brightness, warmth, or other desired characteristics.