Good point! You're the second person that's mentioned this; the other was doing some arranging mentally and wondering how to express a sound he had in his mind - he found it here. :) Funny, actually; I'd never have anticipated this when I thought about doing this video. Glad it's a help, Katie - and thanks much for your kind comment.
I used to have a harmon, bucket, cup, straight, practice, plunger, and derby hat mute collection! I had also stripped the lacquer off my old Conn trumpet to make it raw brass. I sold all the mutes with the trumpet, back in about 2007. Wish I'd kept the mutes, now. I have my Grandpa's old trumpet, and I still have the Monette mouthpiece that I bought. Nice video!
Thank you for commenting. It is a bummer to lament selling a horn, isn't it? And it sounds like you had a nice mute collection, too. Monette mouthpieces are expensive; may be worth more than some trumpets... :) Take care and have a great day ~ Jonathan
Agh, this explains everything! I wrote recently an orchestral music piece featuring a second trumpet with mute... I just realized I needed to specify I wanted a harmon mute to get the sound I needed! Thanks for the video, it helps a lot for someone who is a music composer but isn't too knowledgeable with the specifics of every instrument.
+Pau Strange Pau; Great comment. Congrats on orchestral writing - that's got to be a challenge. The most I've done in that area is for keyboard and 6-10 brass musicians as back up.
Dennis A; Greetings! The trumpet I'm using here (I did have to check - I go through a lot trumpets) is a Bach Stradivarius with a 37 bell. The mouthpiece is a Marcinkiewicz Shew 1.75. The rim is about the width of a Bach 10.5, but it's a little shallower than a C, probably like a D. I really like the Marcinkiewicz pieces; I have 10 or so of them, mostly just different depth cups. I've bought a lot of very nice mouthpieces at very affordable prices at TrumpetHerald.com; a great resource of knowledge and horn and equiptment sales. Take care, Dennis.
Thank you for that !! I was looking everywhere for the sound of the Harmon mute with the stem out. If anyone have any jazzy suggestions of music with that mute, please share with me :)
I've seen guys (with long arms) cup the end of the mute and alternately cover and uncover the mute-hole as they play. Then you can really get various 'wah-wah' sounds. Have fun with it! With the hand , or a rubber-plunger piece, one can get really different sounds. :)
I think if you have to choose only one mute, try this one ! For the inspiration, listen to Miles Davis : Summertime, Time after time, 'round midnight ...
Thanks for the comment! The Yamaha is very, very quiet. I've actually played it while my son and I watched movies at home... Gotta get my practice in, right? :) One word of warning: The back-pressure of the Yamaha Silent Mute is very strong. I used it once with a trumpet that had a rather tight receiver. I was also experimenting with small backbore mouthpieces. Between the mute, the horn and the mouthpieces, I messed my chops up so bad I had problems playing for a couple of weeks - and it really scared me. If you'll google the following "TrumpetHerald silent mute practice mute" you should come up with links to several TrumpetHerald.com threads that discuss which silent or practice mutes are the quietest AND the least difficult to use... This might give you additional input. But the Yamaha is definitely one of the quietest mutes around. Good luck - and keep us informed what you try and how it works. :)
***** Yes; I've heard good things of this newer model Yamaha silent mute. I believe the back-pressure problem has been relieved. For a lengthier review by a trumpeter needing a silent mute you may want to read his feelings here: www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1361446#1361446
I thought there were only two kinds of mutes. The one you hear in old vintage early-mid 20th century recordings, and the ones we hear in new-ish smooth jazz music.
@@GreenBoy9000 Mutes are such an interesting topic. Humes and Berg, of the old Red and Cream colored mutes, now make a magnificent Harmon type mute, called a Swish - Wah mute. It's a little bigger than the old Harmon, which seems to offer a bit more in the way of sound options. I picked one up in a horn purchase and did a video review here... ruclips.net/video/Q0vC3CJdsBs/видео.html Incidentally, I buy all my mutes used (or pick them up in trades) at Ebay and TrumpetHerald.com. Saves a ton of money, and if I'm not thrilled with the sound, just resell at TrumpetHerald and pick up another type. :)
Adam; greetings. The Yamaha is quiet but the back-pressure on the original model can be challenging. I recently picked up a Best Brass practice mute that is very good. Not quite (but nearly) as quiet but much less back- pressure. I use it in Hotels when travelling. They are bothe often available used... Good luck with whichever you choose. A good practice mute is a wonderful thing.
Great video, very informative. Thanks for that tip about warming-up the corks to get a better seal. Hey, I dig that shirt! Reminds me of the paisley shirts Elvis used to wear in the late-1960s only his had his trademark high collars and, I think, were made of polyester.
Thanks for the positive comments on the vid, I appreciate it. I've got this shirt thing going on - I really like nice casual mens dress shirts. That's from Dillards, I think. :) Strange, but I was kidding my family a few weeks ago, "I wear these excellent dress shirts (hey, I like 'em :) ) and NO ONE ever says anything in the comments about them..." So, thanks for saying something...lol My son and I both like the Paisley pattern. One guy commented that his teacher told him to lick the cork (not my idea of a good time). Another comment was to blow on the inside of the bell - and that works like blowing on the cork - except you can see the humidity better. Take care and again - thanks for the comment.
Can't you just use the Soulo bucket mute as your "Flugelhorn" sound? It does the exact same thing as an expensive Flugelhorn does. Especially that good type of bucket mute.
Not quite the same, Aaron. With a trumpet/flugel mouthpiece I can get close to a flugel sound, but the spread isn't the same. I'm not crazy about flugels (haven't had one for a few years, but there's nothing quite like their sound. :)
Thanks for the reply! In jazz I feel people use the Flugelhorn too much as a "warmer trumpet sound" in a ballad when they could put on a quality bucket mute to achieve a warmer trumpet sound. Instead of switching to a completely different horn because of trumpet sound insecurities. It really discredits the trumpet's versatility in my opinion. Just take advantage of the mutes and if you really want a Flugelhorn, then play it as the unique Instrument that it is and not a crutch for ballads, bossa nova's etc.
Aaron; I must say that you're thought here is very impressive and interesting. I almost found myself reaching for a couple of mutes... Really, I think you make a very good reason to stick with a trumpet, embracing its potential guilt in a way that many, as you mention, may be missing. I know I've got a recording of Chris Botti playing with a mute and it's very impressive. Again, Aaron; great thing, great reasoning. Congrats!
KeenerThan KeenerThan; thanks for your kind comment. Mutes are interesting, aren't they? I don't use them often in my regular playing but I do find them fascinating.
Dave; thank you. I'm not a big mute user but this is an example of what I like - an easy listen to various sounds. I've got some cheap(er) silent/practice mutes that I'm getting ready to do a vid on. Waiting for one more to arrive and I'll have 5. :)
Jonathan Milam That's a lot of practice mutes! I think I have two, but never really use them. I'm intrigued by the Soulo mute. I think I'll put that on my list of goodies to acquire! I have a ton of various cup mutes. Did a comparison test the other day on H&B type cup mutes (non-metallic) and the standard Humes and Berg was the most responsive of all! Can't beat that mute for what it can do!
Yadiel; Thanks for your kind comment. The Harmon mute offers so much - with the middle section being movable and even removable. Good luck with your new mute! I'm fond of buying used trumpets and equipment (saves a lot of money) so I buy (and occasionally sell) a lot on Ebay. You may save some money purchasing there. Good luck! :)
Greetings. I'm sorry; I don't play enough classical music to be certain. My belief is that the cup mute is a common, older style and is probably used for classical music. I always suggest TrumpetHerald.com for a great reference; it's a fantastic place to pose quetions and get answers from people qualified in many different fields; classical, studio, jazz, etc.
Hi Jonathan. Have you played around with those plastic Bachs? They're most versatile because of their price (pretty cheap stuff). You could try filling it with cotton balls OR shave the corks on them. Another thing is to cut off some of the plastic to open it up in certain spots (no need to be artistic, just make it work). I find that doing any of this with those cheap mutes REALLY gives it character! Great video. :)
Thanks for the video! I've recently bought myself a trumpet Bb by Startone. Since, i am an absolute beginner, I think I should by myself one of these, because i dont want to start a military campaign with my neighboors. Which one would you recommend?
If you have neighbors close by, like an apartment, etc., a good practice mute can be great. I have a Wallace that I'm getting ready to do a video of, the Wallace Studio Practice Mute, also a great Tom Crown Practice Mute is inexpensive and quite effective. Best Brass puts out another good practice mute, a bit pricey but very small, compact and quiet. Hope this helps - and welcome to the trumpet! I've got many good tips (and lots of well priced used equipment) at TrumpetHerald.com - it's a great forum for trumpeters around the world.
Hi, I play a jumbo acoustic guitar (unplugged) and was wondering if there is a way for me to play along w/ a trumpet player and still be heard? Would they have to go all the way down to a practice mute? For reference, my guitar does fine with a violin playing loud fiddle music. Or is there a certain type of horn that is naturally quieter than others? thanks
greeneking77 This is a great question; perhaps others will pitch in with their ideas. I don't think you'd need to go all the way down to a practice mute. There are so many types of mutes - I think you should be able to find one that would work well for the trumpeter and still enable your guitar to come through. A lot depends on the mouthpiece and style of your trumpeter. I use a Trumpet/Flugel mouthpiece that takes a lot of the cutting characteristic out of a trumpet, that might be a start. Or a cornet or flugelhorn might be a nice option. Let me know what works best, ok? And thanks for the question.
I bought a Wallace mute but it goes a half or whole tone up. Do these mutes do that? Isn't a mute supposed to create the same tone only muted? No compromise in sound intonation.
+Audun Jemtland Audun; Greetings. Thanks for the comment - it's really a very important point. I believe that when a mute is altering intonation like that it's because it isn't fitting properly in the bell of your horn. I recall one mute I had was horribly out of tune (and that is always a huge dissapointment). I put that mute back in my drawer and used it months later with another horn - and the intonation was excellent. That's because the bell was a different size or shape and the mute sat in the correct 'tuning point'. For someone like me that buys and sells a lot of horns the intonation of mutes is a real pain. For someone that has finally chosen (kind of like 'married') a horn that they're going to stick with long term it's probably good to have some material onhand to 'recork' the mute, or to use other material that may be thicker. This subject has come up at TrumpetHerald.com previously with some excellent comments there; you may do a google search for those threads or also perhaps search for info on how to redo the cork/material here at RUclips. Wallace mutes are considered EXCELLENT mutes by most that have used them; sorry you're having this problem.
Keyshaun; Greetings. I almost never buy anything new for a trumpet. These mutes were all used; mostly from TrumpetHerald.com. Occasionally I'll buy used items from Ebay. Why pay new prices? :) The exception is the Soulo mute: www.soulomute.com/ Thanks for listening and watching, Keyshaun; good comment.
Jade; Greetings. No, I've never had that mute. I've almost bought a Dennis Wick practice/silent mute but still debating. Here may be some info on that mute... www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1055870 or possibly here... www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1381002 If you pick one up - be sure and post your opinion here, please. Always nice to have more info! :) Best wishes, Jonathan
The DW cup mute is actually better, as it sounds darker. Also you can adjust the cup and so adjust the sound. This is very useful in a section. There are a lot of different horns with different bells and if they all used a the same cup mute and adjusted the cup to the same bell opening, everyone would be able to sound the same, which is very important when playing in a section.
Yes, I have heard some nice comments on those, but I never got to try them out. If you do pcik one up, please make a video of it, so we get your opinion on it.
Do these mutes change pitch in the same way, or differently? My Harmon with the stem pulled out forces me to pull out the tuning slide for about half a note, to be in tune.
I've been told that if a mute sits in the bell properly it can be played without much intonation changing. I've got one great practice mute that alters the tone 1/4 step - but the developer acknowledges this and mention it in their advertising. I'm not a big mute user (except for practice mutes when necessary travelling) but if you have further questions I suggest you look for answers at TrumpetHerald.com (a tremendous resource) or ask the question there in the forum. There are many symphony players, jazz and other types so they should be able to give you ideas about intonation when playing. Yours is a GREAT question. If you get answers - please link them in a reply, ok? Thanks for watching and contributing such a great question.
I tested Silent Brass and seems the air has no way out. It creates a pressure, it turns difficult to push the air column. Other mutes feels more comfortable to me.
Theo; Greetings. I've played the Yamaha Silent Brass easily while my son and I watched tv - but the backpressure can really be a pain. I've also used the Best Brass practice mute and, my favorite, the Wallace studio practice mute in close quarters. Here's a newer vid with 3 good practice mutes... ruclips.net/video/0-11x_sz4Bo/видео.html The Best Brass is really quite - but the intonation is a bit wacky for me on the very bottom and top of my range. Hope this helps you, Theo - keep up the practice!
+Sierra Autumn Sierra; Greetings. Glad you like the vid; I enjoy making them and need to do about 3 more but I'm on the road a lot right now and need to get home first. :) The song I'm playing here is an old gospel number (just a phrase or two really), "All That Thrills My Soul is Jesus": Great song, great words. I usually use old church songs, my Father was a Christian Pastor; I know tons of church songs. Take care, Sierra!
Bruno; I think that was actually a 'Harmon' Harmon mute. A little red and white decal with the 'Harmon' name on it. Seems like there are dozens of harmon mute makers out there; I just happened to have the original. Here's my favorite harmon type mute, though. It's a "Swish Wah" harmon by Humes and Berg. A little bigger than the traditional harmon style, but the insert (end) is longer and I think I get a little more variation with it. ruclips.net/video/Q0vC3CJdsBs/видео.html I get almost all of my stuff (mutes included) used; occasionally on Ebay but more often at Trumpetherald.com in their Marketplace. Good luck, Bruno; thanks for watching. :)
+Daniel O'Brien Great idea but I'd rather just breathe on it. :) The point is - the cork, when dry, doesn't stick real well in some horns. A bit of moisture will enable the cork to expand and, hopefully, stay in the horn. Quite the bummer to chase a mute around on stage, right? Good idea from your teacher!
+froglitter Greetings. The difference is quite subtle, I do agree. There is some difference; it may be more obvious in the same room - but it isn't a great difference. Thanks for the comment!
Pascal; Greetings and thank you for your kind comment. I really enjoy making these vids and had an abnormal amount of mutes laying around one day so... :) I've been really happy with the results, it's a well liked vid (and a shocker to me, too!) Oh, here's a link to a tremendous trumpeter demoing an excellent mute... ruclips.net/video/Lsm3HIBA79c/видео.html&spfreload=10 Continued best wishes ~ Jonathan
Jonathan Milam Jonathan, thankd for this video and the fast reply. I've tried to play trumpet for 2 weeks now and I love playing but I'm obviously not good yet, but do you happen to have any good exercises for learning how to play. By the way, the songs I want to play later (may be years in the future because I'm not in a hurry whatsoever) are solo's from Louis Armstrong and jazz solo's with the wah wah mute without the pin. I really love the trumpet, it's a great instrument and wonderful music can be made by it, but I need a bit more practise for the basics. So again, do you know any blowing exercises and some beginner songs? Thanks in advance ~Pascal
I have two words for you - Long Tones! :) When you start (your warm up) play a Gb in the staff (valves 1-2-3 or just 2). Play it as a long tone... At least 8 slow counts (12 slow beats). Just fill your horn up and let your lips relax... Think 'sound - tone'. Stop for 12 beats and rest. Then down half a step to F (the low note in the staff) and play it 12 slow beats... Rest 12 beats... Then up to G (one whole step above F) for 12 beats, rest 12 beats. Then down to E - play this for a long, 15 beats, rest 12. Then up to G# for 15 beats, rest 12. Then Eb for 18 beats, rest 12, Then up to A for 18 beats... You're going up 1/2 step and down 1/2 step each time - just low notes until you've gotten to C below the staff and C above the staff. Then rest a few minutes and do some scales... Tonguing, then slurring. It's important to rest after each exercise - this lets the blood circulate and this builds your muscles. Some players end their practice session with long tones, too. Maybe not so many but at least 5 or 6. You can google this " trumpetherald practice exercises for beginners " and you'll probably get some great ideas. Really, at first it's all about scales and tonguing (after long tones). Every pro I've ever heard of did scales; it's great for fingering and tonguing. Once you've got the basics down it shouldn't be hard to play some of Louis A's stuff... Now, sounding like him? That's another story. :) If you're beyond long tones and scales (already doing them) just google the above suggestion. There are suggested practice books (many of them for sale at Trumpetherald.com Marketplace) that will be excellent for you. There are also play along books (with music written for trumpet) with CD's (music) that you can play along with... Playing with backup can be great fun.
Jonathan Milam thank you very much, I really appreciate your help! I started with my dad's old trumpet, the issue is though, valve 2 and 3 are completely stuck. There is no movement and I cant get them out to oil them. Once I get that fixed I can start with all of the helpful stuff you said above. I'm new to playing music so reading notes is something I have to work on, but I hoped if I memorised the height with the keys and I knew a song really specifically, I would be able to do it of the top of my head (at least a little of a song). But first ofcourse being able to blow notes correctly. I hope your tips will work and again Thankss!!
Theo; Greetings. I'm glad you like the little line I'm playing. It's the first part of the verse of an old Christian hymn; "All That Thrills My Soul is Jesus". It's a very beautiful song, quite traditional. I'd like to think that I play a smooth jazz style but I'm afraid I lean more towards be-bop. :) Again, glad you like the song - thanks for watching and commenting. Oh - have a great new year, too!
Here's the best version I can find. I'll try to do this on keyboard sometime with more of a jazz feel; I think that would be a great way to present the song. This is the best I found - and some excellent chords here. ruclips.net/video/JUwjbtC-ng0/видео.html
Funny, but that is a good point. :) With a mute, they say the sound of the horn reverberates more in your head; back through the players jawbone(s), so the valves aren’t so noticeable. :) Great comment though, thank you.
+Mr _Viral Minecraft And More The harmon mute I used says 'Genuine Harmon Mute'. The print on the label is so small I can't read it but I guess it's made by the Harmon Co.
Open 0:28 | Bucket less closed 0:55 | Bucket more closed 1:29 | Cup 2:04 | Straight (metal) 2:40 | Straight (plastic) 3:35 | Harmon (stem in) 4:12 | Harmon (stem halfway) 4:40 | Harmon (stem out) 5:03| Practice 6:09
Fantastic! I'll input this when I get onto my computer with a mouse. THANK YOU!!!!! :)
FabioCostaMusic I
HI Jonathan, it's a pleasure, thank YOU for the great video! Best, Fabio
FabioCostaMusic thanks very useful
This is a great reference video for arrangers deciding what kind of sound they're looking for! Thanks for the video Jonathan!
Good point! You're the second person that's mentioned this; the other was doing some arranging mentally and wondering how to express a sound he had in his mind - he found it here. :) Funny, actually; I'd never have anticipated this when I thought about doing this video. Glad it's a help, Katie - and thanks much for your kind comment.
Literally why I am here as well. Thank you, Jonathan!
I used to have a harmon, bucket, cup, straight, practice, plunger, and derby hat mute collection! I had also stripped the lacquer off my old Conn trumpet to make it raw brass. I sold all the mutes with the trumpet, back in about 2007. Wish I'd kept the mutes, now. I have my Grandpa's old trumpet, and I still have the Monette mouthpiece that I bought. Nice video!
Thank you for commenting. It is a bummer to lament selling a horn, isn't it? And it sounds like you had a nice mute collection, too. Monette mouthpieces are expensive; may be worth more than some trumpets... :) Take care and have a great day ~ Jonathan
Agh, this explains everything! I wrote recently an orchestral music piece featuring a second trumpet with mute... I just realized I needed to specify I wanted a harmon mute to get the sound I needed! Thanks for the video, it helps a lot for someone who is a music composer but isn't too knowledgeable with the specifics of every instrument.
+Pau Strange Pau; Great comment. Congrats on orchestral writing - that's got to be a challenge. The most I've done in that area is for keyboard and 6-10 brass musicians as back up.
Thank you! Well, it is a bit challenging but quite enjoyable, I would recommend you to try sometime! ^_^
Dennis A; Greetings! The trumpet I'm using here (I did have to check - I go through a lot trumpets) is a Bach Stradivarius with a 37 bell. The mouthpiece is a Marcinkiewicz Shew 1.75. The rim is about the width of a Bach 10.5, but it's a little shallower than a C, probably like a D. I really like the Marcinkiewicz pieces; I have 10 or so of them, mostly just different depth cups. I've bought a lot of very nice mouthpieces at very affordable prices at TrumpetHerald.com; a great resource of knowledge and horn and equiptment sales. Take care, Dennis.
Very helpful demonstration - thanks!
Thank you for that !! I was looking everywhere for the sound of the Harmon mute with the stem out.
If anyone have any jazzy suggestions of music with that mute, please share with me :)
I've seen guys (with long arms) cup the end of the mute and alternately cover and uncover the mute-hole as they play. Then you can really get various 'wah-wah' sounds. Have fun with it! With the hand , or a rubber-plunger piece, one can get really different sounds. :)
@@JonathanMilam1 Would definitely try if I had arms !
I think if you have to choose only one mute, try this one ! For the inspiration, listen to Miles Davis : Summertime, Time after time, 'round midnight ...
Thank you for taking the time to make this, I'm considering getting a silent mute and your video helped me :)
Thanks for the comment! The Yamaha is very, very quiet. I've actually played it while my son and I watched movies at home... Gotta get my practice in, right? :)
One word of warning: The back-pressure of the Yamaha Silent Mute is very strong. I used it once with a trumpet that had a rather tight receiver. I was also experimenting with small backbore mouthpieces. Between the mute, the horn and the mouthpieces, I messed my chops up so bad I had problems playing for a couple of weeks - and it really scared me.
If you'll google the following "TrumpetHerald silent mute practice mute" you should come up with links to several TrumpetHerald.com threads that discuss which silent or practice mutes are the quietest AND the least difficult to use... This might give you additional input. But the Yamaha is definitely one of the quietest mutes around.
Good luck - and keep us informed what you try and how it works. :)
They have a new model now: Yamaha SB7X Silent Brass
Very quiet, and smal!
***** Yes; I've heard good things of this newer model Yamaha silent mute. I believe the back-pressure problem has been relieved. For a lengthier review by a trumpeter needing a silent mute you may want to read his feelings here: www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1361446#1361446
Jonathan Milam Thanks! :-)
I thought there were only two kinds of mutes. The one you hear in old vintage early-mid 20th century recordings, and the ones we hear in new-ish smooth jazz music.
George Greener Cute! :) You could throw in a third kind... Miles Davis’ kind of mutes. :)
@@JonathanMilam1 The ones I have my ears set on are the Harmon and cup mutes.
@@GreenBoy9000 Mutes are such an interesting topic. Humes and Berg, of the old Red and Cream colored mutes, now make a magnificent Harmon type mute, called a Swish - Wah mute. It's a little bigger than the old Harmon, which seems to offer a bit more in the way of sound options. I picked one up in a horn purchase and did a video review here... ruclips.net/video/Q0vC3CJdsBs/видео.html Incidentally, I buy all my mutes used (or pick them up in trades) at Ebay and TrumpetHerald.com. Saves a ton of money, and if I'm not thrilled with the sound, just resell at TrumpetHerald and pick up another type. :)
Extremely helpful! thank you so much!
Thank you so much!! I’m looking to by a bubble mute for jazz band thanks for the advice!
Red; very kind of you to comment. Thanks - and enjoy the bubble mute! Mutes can be fun to use. :)
this is great! I've been trying to decide whether I can practice in my apartment, and it looks like I definitely can with the yamaha silent mute!
Adam; greetings. The Yamaha is quiet but the back-pressure on the original model can be challenging. I recently picked up a Best Brass practice mute that is very good. Not quite (but nearly) as quiet but much less back- pressure. I use it in Hotels when travelling. They are bothe often available used... Good luck with whichever you choose. A good practice mute is a wonderful thing.
thank you for your reply Jonathan. It's great to know that there are lots of options for practicing without disturbing others.
Great video, very informative. Thanks for that tip about warming-up the corks to get a better seal.
Hey, I dig that shirt! Reminds me of the paisley shirts Elvis used to wear in the late-1960s only his had his trademark high collars and, I think, were made of polyester.
Thanks for the positive comments on the vid, I appreciate it. I've got this shirt thing going on - I really like nice casual mens dress shirts. That's from Dillards, I think. :) Strange, but I was kidding my family a few weeks ago, "I wear these excellent dress shirts (hey, I like 'em :) ) and NO ONE ever says anything in the comments about them..." So, thanks for saying something...lol My son and I both like the Paisley pattern. One guy commented that his teacher told him to lick the cork (not my idea of a good time). Another comment was to blow on the inside of the bell - and that works like blowing on the cork - except you can see the humidity better. Take care and again - thanks for the comment.
Can't you just use the Soulo bucket mute as your "Flugelhorn" sound? It does the exact same thing as an expensive Flugelhorn does. Especially that good type of bucket mute.
Not quite the same, Aaron. With a trumpet/flugel mouthpiece I can get close to a flugel sound, but the spread isn't the same. I'm not crazy about flugels (haven't had one for a few years, but there's nothing quite like their sound. :)
Thanks for the reply! In jazz I feel people use the Flugelhorn too much as a "warmer trumpet sound" in a ballad when they could put on a quality bucket mute to achieve a warmer trumpet sound. Instead of switching to a completely different horn because of trumpet sound insecurities. It really discredits the trumpet's versatility in my opinion. Just take advantage of the mutes and if you really want a Flugelhorn, then play it as the unique Instrument that it is and not a crutch for ballads, bossa nova's etc.
Aaron; I must say that you're thought here is very impressive and interesting. I almost found myself reaching for a couple of mutes... Really, I think you make a very good reason to stick with a trumpet, embracing its potential guilt in a way that many, as you mention, may be missing. I know I've got a recording of Chris Botti playing with a mute and it's very impressive. Again, Aaron; great thing, great reasoning. Congrats!
Thanks for the video, very helpful!
Is a Harmon mute used in Pixar's Up 'Married Life' theme?
ThePianoSpeaks pretty sure it’s a cup mute
Thanks for the video run down, and an important tip about practice mutes! Best regards.
KeenerThan KeenerThan; thanks for your kind comment. Mutes are interesting, aren't they? I don't use them often in my regular playing but I do find them fascinating.
Great video, Jonathan!
Dave; thank you. I'm not a big mute user but this is an example of what I like - an easy listen to various sounds. I've got some cheap(er) silent/practice mutes that I'm getting ready to do a vid on. Waiting for one more to arrive and I'll have 5. :)
Jonathan Milam That's a lot of practice mutes! I think I have two, but never really use them. I'm intrigued by the Soulo mute. I think I'll put that on my list of goodies to acquire! I have a ton of various cup mutes. Did a comparison test the other day on H&B type cup mutes (non-metallic) and the standard Humes and Berg was the most responsive of all! Can't beat that mute for what it can do!
This video was very helpfull for me. I'am goin to a hormon mute (the 5th one), so thankyou
Yadiel; Thanks for your kind comment. The Harmon mute offers so much - with the middle section being movable and even removable. Good luck with your new mute! I'm fond of buying used trumpets and equipment (saves a lot of money) so I buy (and occasionally sell) a lot on Ebay. You may save some money purchasing there. Good luck! :)
Great, helpful demos!
+dmar droimar Thank you for the kind comment! Continued best wishes, Jonathan
Hello, a guy once told me to use earplugs with your practice mute to hear better. The sound gets bone conduction
That was highly educative
Hi ! I would like to know if the cup mute is used in classical music. For example if you are playing with a symphonic orchestra...
Greetings. I'm sorry; I don't play enough classical music to be certain. My belief is that the cup mute is a common, older style and is probably used for classical music. I always suggest TrumpetHerald.com for a great reference; it's a fantastic place to pose quetions and get answers from people qualified in many different fields; classical, studio, jazz, etc.
Thanks !
I haven’t used a cup in orchestral music for 25 years. There are pieces out there that use them but very very very few.
Hi Jonathan. Have you played around with those plastic Bachs? They're most versatile because of their price (pretty cheap stuff). You could try filling it with cotton balls OR shave the corks on them. Another thing is to cut off some of the plastic to open it up in certain spots (no need to be artistic, just make it work). I find that doing any of this with those cheap mutes REALLY gives it character! Great video. :)
Thanks for the video!
I've recently bought myself a trumpet Bb by Startone. Since, i am an absolute beginner, I think I should by myself one of these, because i dont want to start a military campaign with my neighboors. Which one would you recommend?
If you have neighbors close by, like an apartment, etc., a good practice mute can be great. I have a Wallace that I'm getting ready to do a video of, the Wallace Studio Practice Mute, also a great Tom Crown Practice Mute is inexpensive and quite effective. Best Brass puts out another good practice mute, a bit pricey but very small, compact and quiet. Hope this helps - and welcome to the trumpet! I've got many good tips (and lots of well priced used equipment) at TrumpetHerald.com - it's a great forum for trumpeters around the world.
Jonathan Milam
I've already subscribed! Thanks for quick anwer!
What kind of trumpet and size mouthpiece? Good video; thanks.
He's playing a Bach Strad with a 37 bell and Marcinkiewicz Shew 1.75 mouthpiece.
Hi, I play a jumbo acoustic guitar (unplugged) and was wondering if there is a way for me to play along w/ a trumpet player and still be heard? Would they have to go all the way down to a practice mute? For reference, my guitar does fine with a violin playing loud fiddle music. Or is there a certain type of horn that is naturally quieter than others? thanks
greeneking77 This is a great question; perhaps others will pitch in with their ideas. I don't think you'd need to go all the way down to a practice mute. There are so many types of mutes - I think you should be able to find one that would work well for the trumpeter and still enable your guitar to come through. A lot depends on the mouthpiece and style of your trumpeter. I use a Trumpet/Flugel mouthpiece that takes a lot of the cutting characteristic out of a trumpet, that might be a start. Or a cornet or flugelhorn might be a nice option. Let me know what works best, ok? And thanks for the question.
I bought a Wallace mute but it goes a half or whole tone up. Do these mutes do that?
Isn't a mute supposed to create the same tone only muted? No compromise in sound intonation.
+Audun Jemtland Audun; Greetings. Thanks for the comment - it's really a very important point. I believe that when a mute is altering intonation like that it's because it isn't fitting properly in the bell of your horn. I recall one mute I had was horribly out of tune (and that is always a huge dissapointment). I put that mute back in my drawer and used it months later with another horn - and the intonation was excellent. That's because the bell was a different size or shape and the mute sat in the correct 'tuning point'. For someone like me that buys and sells a lot of horns the intonation of mutes is a real pain. For someone that has finally chosen (kind of like 'married') a horn that they're going to stick with long term it's probably good to have some material onhand to 'recork' the mute, or to use other material that may be thicker. This subject has come up at TrumpetHerald.com previously with some excellent comments there; you may do a google search for those threads or also perhaps search for info on how to redo the cork/material here at RUclips. Wallace mutes are considered EXCELLENT mutes by most that have used them; sorry you're having this problem.
It would of been cool if you left links to where you can buy the mutes
Keyshaun; Greetings. I almost never buy anything new for a trumpet. These mutes were all used; mostly from TrumpetHerald.com. Occasionally I'll buy used items from Ebay. Why pay new prices? :) The exception is the Soulo mute: www.soulomute.com/ Thanks for listening and watching, Keyshaun; good comment.
True. After watching your video I did buy a mute from eBay. Thanks for this video !
Hey, you were wearing Batik! :D
Anyway I play flute and clarinet. Flute is not that noisy, but clarinet is, but not as noisy as the trumpet. :)
Any thoughts on the Dennis wick adjustable cup mute (dw5531 specifically)? Or any other adjustable cup mute for that matter?
Thanks!
Jade; Greetings. No, I've never had that mute. I've almost bought a Dennis Wick practice/silent mute but still debating. Here may be some info on that mute... www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1055870 or possibly here... www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1381002
If you pick one up - be sure and post your opinion here, please. Always nice to have more info! :) Best wishes, Jonathan
The DW cup mute is actually better, as it sounds darker. Also you can adjust the cup and so adjust the sound. This is very useful in a section. There are a lot of different horns with different bells and if they all used a the same cup mute and adjusted the cup to the same bell opening, everyone would be able to sound the same, which is very important when playing in a section.
I would like to pick up some (or at least one) Wallace mute. It looks like their ability to alter tone is a nice plus.
Yes, I have heard some nice comments on those, but I never got to try them out. If you do pcik one up, please make a video of it, so we get your opinion on it.
Do these mutes change pitch in the same way, or differently? My Harmon with the stem pulled out forces me to pull out the tuning slide for about half a note, to be in tune.
I've been told that if a mute sits in the bell properly it can be played without much intonation changing. I've got one great practice mute that alters the tone 1/4 step - but the developer acknowledges this and mention it in their advertising. I'm not a big mute user (except for practice mutes when necessary travelling) but if you have further questions I suggest you look for answers at TrumpetHerald.com (a tremendous resource) or ask the question there in the forum. There are many symphony players, jazz and other types so they should be able to give you ideas about intonation when playing. Yours is a GREAT question. If you get answers - please link them in a reply, ok? Thanks for watching and contributing such a great question.
I tested Silent Brass and seems the air has no way out. It creates a pressure, it turns difficult to push the air column. Other mutes feels more comfortable to me.
I agree very much with you. They say the newer model has less 'back pressure' but I haven't tried one yet.
Hey Johnathan, what mute would you suggest to me for just playing quietly when my parents are watching T.V.
Theo; Greetings. I've played the Yamaha Silent Brass easily while my son and I watched tv - but the backpressure can really be a pain. I've also used the Best Brass practice mute and, my favorite, the Wallace studio practice mute in close quarters. Here's a newer vid with 3 good practice mutes... ruclips.net/video/0-11x_sz4Bo/видео.html The Best Brass is really quite - but the intonation is a bit wacky for me on the very bottom and top of my range. Hope this helps you, Theo - keep up the practice!
Jonathan Milam, Thanks, I used to have a mute and the pressure got to me, the literal pressure, so I'll check out that video and thank you.
Practice mute
I may have missed it but what song are you playing? Great video
+Sierra Autumn Sierra; Greetings. Glad you like the vid; I enjoy making them and need to do about 3 more but I'm on the road a lot right now and need to get home first. :) The song I'm playing here is an old gospel number (just a phrase or two really), "All That Thrills My Soul is Jesus": Great song, great words. I usually use old church songs, my Father was a Christian Pastor; I know tons of church songs. Take care, Sierra!
What's the brand of the harmon mute?
Bruno; I think that was actually a 'Harmon' Harmon mute. A little red and white decal with the 'Harmon' name on it. Seems like there are dozens of harmon mute makers out there; I just happened to have the original. Here's my favorite harmon type mute, though. It's a "Swish Wah" harmon by Humes and Berg. A little bigger than the traditional harmon style, but the insert (end) is longer and I think I get a little more variation with it. ruclips.net/video/Q0vC3CJdsBs/видео.html I get almost all of my stuff (mutes included) used; occasionally on Ebay but more often at Trumpetherald.com in their Marketplace. Good luck, Bruno; thanks for watching. :)
Cool! My trombone teacher taught me with a Harmon mute, that one should give the cork a quick lick. Dunno what you think?
+Daniel O'Brien Great idea but I'd rather just breathe on it. :) The point is - the cork, when dry, doesn't stick real well in some horns. A bit of moisture will enable the cork to expand and, hopefully, stay in the horn. Quite the bummer to chase a mute around on stage, right? Good idea from your teacher!
The bucket mute sounds the same to me whether it's open (0:54) or more closed (1:30)
+froglitter Greetings. The difference is quite subtle, I do agree. There is some difference; it may be more obvious in the same room - but it isn't a great difference. Thanks for the comment!
nice video, helped alot
Pascal; Greetings and thank you for your kind comment. I really enjoy making these vids and had an abnormal amount of mutes laying around one day so... :) I've been really happy with the results, it's a well liked vid (and a shocker to me, too!) Oh, here's a link to a tremendous trumpeter demoing an excellent mute... ruclips.net/video/Lsm3HIBA79c/видео.html&spfreload=10 Continued best wishes ~ Jonathan
Jonathan Milam Jonathan, thankd for this video and the fast reply. I've tried to play trumpet for 2 weeks now and I love playing but I'm obviously not good yet, but do you happen to have any good exercises for learning how to play. By the way, the songs I want to play later (may be years in the future because I'm not in a hurry whatsoever) are solo's from Louis Armstrong and jazz solo's with the wah wah mute without the pin. I really love the trumpet, it's a great instrument and wonderful music can be made by it, but I need a bit more practise for the basics. So again, do you know any blowing exercises and some beginner songs? Thanks in advance ~Pascal
I have two words for you - Long Tones! :) When you start (your warm up) play a Gb in the staff (valves 1-2-3 or just 2). Play it as a long tone... At least 8 slow counts (12 slow beats). Just fill your horn up and let your lips relax... Think 'sound - tone'. Stop for 12 beats and rest. Then down half a step to F (the low note in the staff) and play it 12 slow beats... Rest 12 beats... Then up to G (one whole step above F) for 12 beats, rest 12 beats. Then down to E - play this for a long, 15 beats, rest 12. Then up to G# for 15 beats, rest 12. Then Eb for 18 beats, rest 12, Then up to A for 18 beats... You're going up 1/2 step and down 1/2 step each time - just low notes until you've gotten to C below the staff and C above the staff. Then rest a few minutes and do some scales... Tonguing, then slurring. It's important to rest after each exercise - this lets the blood circulate and this builds your muscles. Some players end their practice session with long tones, too. Maybe not so many but at least 5 or 6. You can google this " trumpetherald practice exercises for beginners " and you'll probably get some great ideas. Really, at first it's all about scales and tonguing (after long tones). Every pro I've ever heard of did scales; it's great for fingering and tonguing. Once you've got the basics down it shouldn't be hard to play some of Louis A's stuff... Now, sounding like him? That's another story. :) If you're beyond long tones and scales (already doing them) just google the above suggestion. There are suggested practice books (many of them for sale at Trumpetherald.com Marketplace) that will be excellent for you. There are also play along books (with music written for trumpet) with CD's (music) that you can play along with... Playing with backup can be great fun.
Jonathan Milam thank you very much, I really appreciate your help! I started with my dad's old trumpet, the issue is though, valve 2 and 3 are completely stuck. There is no movement and I cant get them out to oil them. Once I get that fixed I can start with all of the helpful stuff you said above. I'm new to playing music so reading notes is something I have to work on, but I hoped if I memorised the height with the keys and I knew a song really specifically, I would be able to do it of the top of my head (at least a little of a song). But first ofcourse being able to blow notes correctly. I hope your tips will work and again Thankss!!
What is that solo called if anyone knows because it sounds so cool.
Theo; Greetings. I'm glad you like the little line I'm playing. It's the first part of the verse of an old Christian hymn; "All That Thrills My Soul is Jesus". It's a very beautiful song, quite traditional. I'd like to think that I play a smooth jazz style but I'm afraid I lean more towards be-bop. :) Again, glad you like the song - thanks for watching and commenting. Oh - have a great new year, too!
Jonathan Milam , thank you I'll be playing that all night long!
Here's the best version I can find. I'll try to do this on keyboard sometime with more of a jazz feel; I think that would be a great way to present the song. This is the best I found - and some excellent chords here. ruclips.net/video/JUwjbtC-ng0/видео.html
With the quite mute you can here the keys more
Funny, but that is a good point. :) With a mute, they say the sound of the horn reverberates more in your head; back through the players jawbone(s), so the valves aren’t so noticeable. :) Great comment though, thank you.
i need the silent mute to practice at nights! :
What kind of Harmon mute is that?
+Mr _Viral Minecraft And More The harmon mute I used says 'Genuine Harmon Mute'. The print on the label is so small I can't read it but I guess it's made by the Harmon Co.
yes indonesian batik ,,, good