Wondering what a Harmon mute is and why so many trumpet players use it? The Harmon mute, also called a bubble mute or a wa wa mute is a trumpet accessory known for its distinctive buzzy "wah-wah" sound, made famous by legends like Miles Davis. Keep reading to become the go-to expert on harmon mutes in your band!
What is a Harmon Mute?
A Harmon mute, also called a bubble mute or Wa Wa mute is a type of trumpet mute that fits snugly into the bell, altering the trumpet’s resonance to produce a buzzy, muted tone. Popular for jazz solos, it’s often used to add emotional depth to performances. It consists of a metal body and a removable stem, offering versatility in sound.
History of the Harmon Mute
The Harmon mute was created in the 1920s and has since become a staple in jazz. Miles Davis helped bring this mute to the forefront of the jazz world, especially in tracks like "So What." Modern players still love the mute for its unique sound and expressive possibilities.
Best Harmon Mutes for Trumpeters in 2024
1. JoRal Copper Bubble Harmon Mute - Pro Pick
The JoRal Harmon Mute stands out in 2024 for its superior craftsmanship and sound quality. Its copper construction provides a rich, warm tone that enhances the depth of your playing. Ideal for professional trumpet players, this mute delivers exceptional projection and clarity, making it perfect for live performances and recording sessions. The balanced resistance allows players to achieve a smooth, expressive sound, particularly in jazz solos.
2. Libretto Trumpet Wah-Wah Harmon Mute - Value Pick
For those seeking affordability without sacrificing sound, the Libretto Trumpet Wah-Wah Harmon Mute is a must-have in 2024. It offers excellent control over the classic "wah-wah" effect, making it a versatile tool for jazz musicians and students alike. This mute provides a strong balance between resistance and playability, allowing for clean, muted tones at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models. If you're on a budget but still want a professional-sounding mute, the Libretto Trumpet Wah-Wah Harmon Mute delivers fantastic value.
Why Use a Harmon Mute?
Trumpeters use mutes like the Harmon mute to soften their sound and create different tonal effects. The mute is much quieter, so this can be appealing for performing in small rooms such as jazz cafes where the audience doesn't want to hear the full power of an unmuted trumpet. It also allows for a variety of tone colors to be created. Buzzy sounds with the stem in or more mellow tones with the stem out can create pleasing variety which can increase listener engagement.
Learn to Play with a Harmon Mute - Watch Video
Is It Harder to Play with a Mute?
Yes, playing with a mute can add resistance, making it harder to hit notes cleanly. If you're wanting to practice trumpet at home quietly without the backpressure of a mute it is recommended to use Yamaha's SILENT Brass System For Trumpet.
How Does a Harmon Mute Work?
The Harmon mute works by reducing the air escaping from the bell, changing the sound's timbre. Unlike other trumpet mutes, the harmon mute is a two for one! By removing the stem you can reduce the buzzy sound and create a warmer mellow tone color.
How do you stop a trumpet mute from falling out?
Some players wet the cork before gently twisting the mute into the bell end of their instrument. This helps to create a tighter seal. How you wet it though is up to your comfort level as many players use a water bottle, the spit valve or even just lick it in between fast changes! You can decide which method you prefer!
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