Classical Mouthpieces

The Classical sheet metal mouthpiece is an exceptionally good match to the classical models because of its long, conical shape, which lacks the modern cup, throat, and backbore. Although the instruments certainly play well with many modern mouthpieces, these conical models yield a soft, warm quality of sound that blends well with other early wind instruments in the wind section of a period instrument classical orchestra or chamber music group.

Several designs are available

(K1) High horn mouthpiece copied from an original by Kruspe, mid 19th century. Inner rim diameter of 16-17.5mm.                      

(K2) Low horn mouthpiece copied from a mid-19th century original, possibly also by Kruspe. Inner rim diameter 17-18mm.

(F) French cor-alto mouthpiece from an anon. original of the late 18th- early 19th century. Inner rim diameter 16-17.5mm. Rather narrow conical body shape.

(B) French cor-basse mouthpiece from an anon. original of the late 18th-early 19th century. Inner rim diameter 17-18mm. Wider conical body shape than the high horn model, with larger inner diameter at the shank end.

(T) French classical  mouthpiece copied from an original possibly by Tabard, ca. 1810. Inner rim diameter of the original is around 17mm. This model tends toward the high horn side, but is a good general purpose mouthpiece. It is a good match for the Halari, Raoux and Courtois french classical horn models.

(W) English mouthpiece copied from an original possibly by Nicholas Winkings, London, ca. 1760. Inner rim diamer is just over 17mm. This is the earliest model that I make, and is a good match for the Hofmaster English baroque horn.

Rims can be made in a number of diameters and widths on request. All six designs are formed by hand from sheet metal with a separate turned rim soldered on. Shank sleeves are soldered to the mouthpiece, but can also be made detachable. (see articles below)

For more on classical mouthpieces, see the following articles:

• Early Horn Mouthpieces

• How to Make a Classical Horn Mouthpiece