DENIS WICK GOLD PLATED STEVEN MEAD ULTRA EUPHONIUM MOUTHPIECE DW4880E

British virtuoso euphonium player Steven Mead has assisted in the subtle design modifications needed to make the finest range of euphonium mouthpieces available in the world today. Although they are all based on the well-worked principles of the Denis Wick trombone mouthpieces, they offer small but significant refinements that make them the choice of the best euphonium players.

It is important that a proper euphonium mouthpiece is used to get the best results from an instrument. Some manufacturers simply supply trombone mouthpieces, which are often inappropriate for the euphonium, which generally requires a much warmer-sounding mouthpiece to bring out its true character.

Steven Mead designed his original SM series for Denis Wick back in 1995, but recent changes in instrument design and Steven s desire for perfection, have been the spur to create this new design. After many prototypes, the Ultra SM3U was finally given Steven s consent, and was met with universal approval at both Music China and the Brass Band Championships.

The new mouthpiece has a different, heavier outer shape, a slightly more rounded cup and a slightly sharper inner edge to the rim. The sound is powerful, with a beautiful singing high register.

Steven Mead said From an initial concept drawing we started to get closer to the desired goal. Each prototype was subjected to rigorous testing in different acoustics, using blind judges listening to the new mouthpiece in relation to others. Each time following the tests we were able to make it a little better, then again a little better. Finally, we arrived at the finished version and I m delighted with it!

Praise has come from every quarter for the Ultra Euphonium mouthpieces. Now these models are available in the 'M' (or European) shank, making the Ultra suitable for players with the medium shank receiver on their instruments, in particular the famous Willson 2900, as well as most brands of German Bariton.