Transition from Bach 5G to Hammond 10M

[sdenlinger]

I've been using a Bach 5G with my Bach 42 for several years, but I've struggled with my high register. About two weeks ago I tried switching to a Hammond Design 10M mouthpiece with my 42 because I switched from second to third in a community band I'm in, and it has had a surprising effect on my *high* range that I did not anticipate. I now find it easier to play notes in the 7th and 8th partials, where I used to struggle. It's still a work in progress, but I feel like I've made a jump in ability. Perhaps the wider rim diameter of the 10M is helping with that? I do have pretty full lips, but it's disorienting to think that a rim diameter that large would be a benefit with my high register. At the same time, I'm trying to really focus on good breath support in my high (and low) range, and I do notice that the larger 10M requires more support, but it is really making me think that I should stick with the 10M for several months and build up my conditioning and high range with that, rather than transfer that approach back to my 5G.

[Doug Elliott]

Yes, for many (or most) players, the "conventional wisdom" that says smaller=high range is just plain wrong. In many cases it inhibits overall function and limits high range.