Price, playing styles, the tubist’s embouchure, and the music the tubist will play are all factors to consider when selecting the best tuba mouthpiece. Although generalizations about the various aspects of a mouthpiece can be used to assess its value to a player, the importance of personally testing the mouthpiece should not be overlooked. Choosing the best tuba mouthpiece depends on the player as much as it does on factors like playing style and price.
Although not an exact indicator of quality, price is the most important factor to consider when purchasing a new tuba mouthpiece. In 2011, high-density plastic mouthpieces were available for as little as $30 USD, whereas custom silver- and gold-plated mouthpieces could cost well over $300 USD. Before making a decision, the tubist must consider the construction material as well as his or her budget constraints.
Tuba mouthpieces produce a variety of playing styles. The sizes and dimensions of the rim, cup, throat, and backbore, among other geometric variables of the mouthpiece, have a significant impact on the tuba’s playing style. The playing style predicted by the tuba mouthpiece’s geometry can be used to match the tubist’s anticipated style of play.
Sharp, narrow rims increase flexibility and attack precision, while wide, round mouthpiece rims are more comfortable and increase playing endurance. Small, shallow cups brighten tone and relieve fatigue, while large, deep cups give the tubist better control and darker, richer tones. The flow of air through the horn, the volume, and the tone are all improved by a wide mouthpiece throat, whereas the tone brilliance and playing endurance are increased by a small throat. A brilliant sound is produced by a tight backbore, while a mellow sound is produced by a wide backbore.
The tubist’s playing style is closely linked to the music he or she will perform and the environment in which the music will be performed. Marches, concertos, small ensemble pieces, and solo music can all have a wide range of styles. Marching pieces, for example, may necessitate high volume and brilliant tones, whereas a small ensemble piece may necessitate deep, mellow tuba notes. A good tuba mouthpiece should be adaptable enough to accommodate a variety of musical styles.
When choosing a tuba mouthpiece, the most important factor to consider is how well the mouthpiece fits both the tuba and the tubist. A comfortable mouthpiece for the tubist may be rendered useless if it does not fit properly in the mouthpiece receiver. It’s also possible for a mouthpiece to produce various tones depending on the player. Putting the mouthpiece through its paces is a great way to determine its true nature and performance.