The Trumpet in the USA

Continuing the Brass Bulletin survey of technical aids and equipment used by U.S. trumpeters, the subject this time is mouthpiece backbores, of two types: First, the larger backbores used by players who use the piccolo trumpet in large ensemble performance circumstances where a freer sound, for tonal volume and increased intonational flexibility are required, and, second, the similarly larger backbores of various manufacturers which are used on the "C" trumpet for the same reasons. In the case of the latter, the four most popular backbores were installed on a common model Bach mouthpiece and then tested by several performers. They are listed from the largest to the smallest, but all were more open than the standard Bach (#10) backbore.

These backbores can be installed by the manufacturers on any mouthpiece, but it is probably more prudent to purchase new mouthpieces, either through BIM or the manufacturer, until a determination is made as to the suitability of any of them for one's personal use.