Posted by Neil W. Dwyer on January 04, 2002 at 10:47:09:
Mr. Dedman's earlier post regarding his visit to Brook Mays got me to thinking about how a fair evaluation can be made when one of the most important factors in the playing equation is a large variable. Does one bring along a favorite mouthpiece? Based on what, that it worked on your last horn? Since the mouthpiece can contribute so much to the success of any horn, do you also try new mouthpieces at the same time? Based on what, the advice of the salesperson? Advice from associates? Since a major decision is being made based on sounds from a horn you have only held for a few minutes, and since choice of a mouthpiece is a matter which usually requires some time and experience, it seems that much is left up to luck. Another interesting note, on my last visit to Brook Mays in Houston, I saw a large sign posted: "No mouth-blown instruments may be played prior to purchase". This adds even more uncertainty to the selection....