What is the shank size of the Coppergate 12C?

The Coppergate 12C features a small shank. This makes it compatible with most standard student and intermediate tenor trombones, but not with large-bore symphonic or bass trombones.

What material is the mouthpiece made from?

The mouthpiece is crafted from high-quality brass. It is then finished with a silver plating to provide a luxurious look and a long-lasting, durable surface for the player.

What kind of tone does the 12C produce?

It produces a brilliant and rich tone. The design is intended to provide a balanced sound that works well across different musical styles while maintaining clarity.

Is the 12C good for high notes?

Yes, the Coppergate 12C is specifically noted for its fantastic high register. The medium cup size helps players achieve upper notes more easily than larger-cupped mouthpieces.

What genres of music is this mouthpiece suitable for?

The medium cup design makes the 12C highly versatile. It is suitable for all genres of music, including jazz, orchestral, and brass band performances.

How does the throat size affect the playing experience?

The Coppergate 12C is designed with a medium-sized throat. This specific dimension is intended to provide an even response and reliable intonation throughout the instrument's range.

How does the 12C compare to the Coppergate 11C?

The 12C typically offers a slightly different cup profile compared to the 11C. While both are part of the same range, the 12C is specifically geared towards a brilliant tone and strong high-register performance.

Can I use this mouthpiece on a bass trombone?

No, this is a small-shank mouthpiece. Bass trombones, such as those that use the Denis Wick 2AL, require a large-shank fitting which is much wider than the 12C shank.

Is this mouthpiece suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is a fantastic all-round mouthpiece for students. Its medium cup and even response make it easier for developing players to find their sound and manage intonation.

Does the silver plating require special care?

Like all silver-plated brass accessories, it should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and occasional mild soapy water. This helps maintain the luxurious finish and hygiene.

Will this fit a Conn 52H trombone?

The Conn 52H is a dual-bore trombone that typically accepts a small-shank mouthpiece. Therefore, the Coppergate 12C should be compatible with this specific model.

What is the typical price for the Coppergate 12C?

The mouthpiece is generally positioned as an affordable equipment option. It typically retails for approximately £13.00, making it accessible for most musicians.

Gear article

Gear4music Coppergate 12C Trombone Mouthpiece

The Coppergate 12C is a small-shank trombone mouthpiece designed as a versatile, all-round equipment upgrade or replacement. Produced by Gear4music, it features a medium cup and silver-plated brass construction to support a rich tone and an accessible high register.

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Background and Design

The Coppergate 12C is part of the Gear4music proprietary range of brass accessories, aimed at providing affordable yet reliable alternatives to premium brand mouthpieces. It is specifically designed for small-bore trombones, a common standard for student and intermediate instruments. The mouthpiece is machined from quality brass and finished with a durable silver plating to ensure longevity and a traditional aesthetic.

Technical Specifications

The 12C designation refers to a medium-depth cup, which balances ease of play with tonal depth. Key technical features include:

Small Shank: Compatible with standard small-bore tenor trombones.
Medium Cup: Offers a balance between the brightness required for lead playing and the warmth needed for ensemble work.
Medium Throat: Specially crafted to provide even air resistance, leading to consistent intonation and a predictable response across all registers.

Tonal Characteristics

The Coppergate 12C is characterised by a brilliant and rich tone. The medium cup design is particularly advantageous for the high register, making it easier for players to reach upper notes without excessive fatigue. Despite its focus on the higher range, the use of brass and silver plating ensures the sound remains resonant and full-bodied rather than thin or harsh.

Suitability and Genre

Due to its balanced design, the 12C is considered suitable for all genres of music, from orchestral and brass band settings to jazz and pop. It is particularly well-suited for student musicians or those using 'School Series' instruments, such as the Grassi STB850, who require a dependable mouthpiece that does not demand the extreme lung capacity sometimes required by larger 6.5AL or bass trombone mouthpieces.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Gear4music range, the 12C serves as a brighter, more high-register focused alternative to the Coppergate 11C. While professional alternatives like the Bach Classic or Denis Wick series offer similar geometries at a higher price point, the Coppergate 12C provides a highly accessible entry point. It is distinct from bass trombone mouthpieces, such as the Denis Wick 2AL, which feature significantly larger shanks and cups for low-end resonance.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shank size of the Coppergate 12C?: The Coppergate 12C features a small shank. This makes it compatible with most standard student and intermediate tenor trombones, but not with large-bore symphonic or bass trombones.
What material is the mouthpiece made from?: The mouthpiece is crafted from high-quality brass. It is then finished with a silver plating to provide a luxurious look and a long-lasting, durable surface for the player.
What kind of tone does the 12C produce?: It produces a brilliant and rich tone. The design is intended to provide a balanced sound that works well across different musical styles while maintaining clarity.
Is the 12C good for high notes?: Yes, the Coppergate 12C is specifically noted for its fantastic high register. The medium cup size helps players achieve upper notes more easily than larger-cupped mouthpieces.
What genres of music is this mouthpiece suitable for?: The medium cup design makes the 12C highly versatile. It is suitable for all genres of music, including jazz, orchestral, and brass band performances.
How does the throat size affect the playing experience?: The Coppergate 12C is designed with a medium-sized throat. This specific dimension is intended to provide an even response and reliable intonation throughout the instrument's range.
How does the 12C compare to the Coppergate 11C?: The 12C typically offers a slightly different cup profile compared to the 11C. While both are part of the same range, the 12C is specifically geared towards a brilliant tone and strong high-register performance.
Can I use this mouthpiece on a bass trombone?: No, this is a small-shank mouthpiece. Bass trombones, such as those that use the Denis Wick 2AL, require a large-shank fitting which is much wider than the 12C shank.
Is this mouthpiece suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is a fantastic all-round mouthpiece for students. Its medium cup and even response make it easier for developing players to find their sound and manage intonation.
Does the silver plating require special care?: Like all silver-plated brass accessories, it should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and occasional mild soapy water. This helps maintain the luxurious finish and hygiene.
Will this fit a Conn 52H trombone?: The Conn 52H is a dual-bore trombone that typically accepts a small-shank mouthpiece. Therefore, the Coppergate 12C should be compatible with this specific model.
What is the typical price for the Coppergate 12C?: The mouthpiece is generally positioned as an affordable equipment option. It typically retails for approximately £13.00, making it accessible for most musicians.