Mouthpiece Basics

• The mouthpiece of a trumpet serves as a resonator, relaying vibration from the player's lips to the air in the instrument. It has a circular rim, which leads to the cup, which then concentrates the flow of air into the bore of the instrument. There are many variables, and subsequent combinations, which is why there are so many mouthpiece options available. The aspects which can vary are: the diameter and contour of the rim, the shape and dimensions of the cup, the size of the bore and the size and shape of the backbore.
  
  

Choosing a Mouthpiece

• Since even the most minute changes in the dimensions of a mouthpiece can make a marked difference, the choice of the perfect mouthpiece for any player is a personal one, and can be quite difficult. Adding to this difficulty is the accepted knowledge that just "trying out" a few different options doesn't really work, since a player needs time to adjust to any new mouthpiece. In addition, there are very opinionated and vocal camps in favor of different manufacturers (Bach and Schilke being the most popular), and the debate is endless. Many experienced trumpeters find they like to use a variety of mouthpieces, depending on the type of music being played.
  
  

Comparisons

• Therefore, a player needs to seek out advice and do a lot of research when choosing a new mouthpiece. Due to the overwhelming choices available in trumpet mouthpieces, there are many charts available to help a trumpet player. Some compare the varying sizes of the rim and cup, some compare manufacturer to manufacturer, and some even give examples of the type of sound which will be produced.