This series introduces six meticulously crafted tenor trombone mouthpieces, each a result of Alessi and Backun’s dedication to innovation while honoring Laskey’s legacy. On the other hand, the Alessi Signature Series represents a collaboration between Backun and Joseph Alessi, Principal Trombone of the New York Philharmonic. With options available for both tenor and bass trombone players, Laskey trombone mouthpieces from the Classic Series reflect the timeless appeal of Laskey’s work and remain popular choices among musicians worldwide. The Classic Series pays homage to Laskey’s original designs, faithfully recreating his craftsmanship. Today, the company offers two distinct series: the Classic Series and the Alessi Signature Series – designed in collaboration with Joseph Alessi. In 2019, Backun Musical Services acquired Laskey’s company, taking on the responsibility of preserving his designs while infusing new life into the brand. Produces a more focused sound, but with open response.Scott Laskey’s legacy in crafting trombone mouthpieces began in 1985, establishing him as a respected figure in the industry until his passing in 2018. More focused than the standard 90 leadpipe. Standard leadpipe for the R90 contrabass trombone. Particularly suitable for use with dual bore slides and /or large bass trombone mouthpieces. More focused than the standard 9 leadpipe.Īlso available in large shank fitting as 31BL. More focused than the standard 31 leadpipe.Īlso available in large shank fitting as 31AL. Each can be ordered in brass, nickel silver or silver.Īlso available in large shank fitting as 31L. And if you are changing your mouthpiece, a change of leadpipe may also be appropriate.īelow are the leadpipes currently available for our trombones. A shallow cup may be better with a tighter more focused leadpipe. It is important to bear in mind that a leadpipe should also be a suitable match not only for your trombone but also for your mouthpiece.įor a large cup mouthpiece you may find that a leadpipe with a more open taper and feel is preferable. However in addition to our standard leadpipe, we also have leadpipe options based on the standard taper that are more focused, “A”, or more open ,”B”. The standard leadpipe for each trombone model is in brass, whilst nickel silver gives a more brilliant sound and silver a darker, denser sound quality.Įxtensive research has shown that, for most players, the standard taper leadpipe in brass is the best solution. Leadpipes are available for Michael Rath Custom trombones in three materials, brass, nickel silver and silver, and three sizes. When coupled with the right main slide, tuning slide and leadpipe, nickel bells can also sound dark, full and resonant, particularly on our bass trombones.įor most players our standard bell size and weight will be the best choice – 7 1/2″ for medium bore tenor trombones (R1, R2, R10 and R12) 8″ for medium large bore trombones (R3) 8 1/2″ for large bore tenor trombones (R4) and 9 1/2″ for bass trombones (R9).Īll leadpipes are stamped with the size as per the picture above.Ĭhoice of a leadpipe is an important factor in determining the sound, and particularly the response, of an instrument. Nickel silver bells tend to produce an extremely clear sound, but without becoming excessively bright. For example a yellow brass bell will sound more brilliant and brighter than gold and red brass bells with a consistency of tone. The higher the copper content in the material, the darker and warmer is the sound. They are available in yellow brass (70% copper, 30% zinc), gold brass (85% copper, 15% zinc), red brass (90% copper, 10% zinc) and nickel silver. Michael Rath Custom Trombone bell flares offer wide range of tonal characteristics, each material giving a variety and flexibility of sound. This has advantages of tuning and timbre with little penalty in terms of slide weight.
The standard dependent setup is Bb/F/D.Īs with all Michael Rath custom trombones, an “in slide” tuning system for bass trombones similar to that on the R11 alto trombone is available. Other tunings have also been accommodated.
Similarly, as well as the standard independent double valve tuning of Bb/F/Gb/D, a Bb/F/G/Eb configuration can be manufactured. For example a “dual bore” slide of 0.562”/0.578” is possible and bell flares up to 10½” and above have been supplied. The standard dimensions for the R8 and R9 are a bore size of 0.562” and a bell flare diameter of 9½” but other sizes are available on request. Available in a single valve model, the R8, and double valve independent and dependent models, the R9 and the R9D, the modular construction allows significant tailoring of an instrument. The options available for Michael Rath custom bass trombones are extensive, allowing you to configure an instrument unique to you.