Accessories for Brass Instruments

About Brass Accessories

Brass accessories have many different uses - all of which contribute to the sound and playability of the brass instrument they are designed for. Cases and gig bags and instrument stands ensure instruments are protected in between practice sessions and performances. Cases like the Schilke Double Trumpet Case are designed with hard, rigid shells and are built for musicians who travel out of town to play. Gig bags, conversely, are typically more flexible and feature padded constructions. These lightweight, easy-to-carry bags are best suited to brass musicians who perform locally. Instrument stands are standard stage equipment as they give musicians quick and easy access to their instruments during performances.

Brass mouthpieces and mutes play a major role in an instruments sound production. The mouthpiece is the part of the brass instrument that touches the musician's lips. They are chosen based on many factors, the most important being the embouchure of the musician, the desired tone and the instrument itself. Brass mutes typically fit into the bell of the instrument. However, they can also be suspended outside of the bell with a clip or hang from the outer lip of the brass instrument. The most common materials used for mutes are metals - aluminum, brass and copper metal. And while each metal produces its own unique tone, all mutes are generally known to sharpen the instruments sound.

Accessories also come in the form of care and cleaning supplies. Regular instrument maintenance is a must - which is why a complement of repair tools and cleaning kits is essential. From entire kits like the Bach 1877 Trumpet Repair/Maintenance Kit and the Giardinelli French Horn Care Kit to single brass care items like the Bach Deluxe Silver Polishing Cloth and Schilke's Tuning Slide Grease, using the proper maintenance accessories will go a long way in extending the playing life of any instrument.