"The Curran “Orchestral” model mouthpiece is ideal for any playing you do on the job. It has a deep, rich sound with a clear and very defined core. For having such a big sound, the articulation is very easy and consistent throughout the range of the horn. The Curran Orchestral mouthpiece has a great range and flexibility, yet really fills out the section. It is the ideal ensemble mouthpiece.
The Curran “Recital” model is very similar to the Orchestral mouthpiece, but has a slightly lighter sound. This makes playing virtuosic passages easy, and long solo performances aren’t taxing. The articulation and flexibility are really efficient, while still letting me feel like I can create a great sound. I also use this mouthpiece occasionally for getting a lighter section sound in ensemble playing.
If I really want to dial it back and play lighter music, possibly with an alto trombone in the section, I recommend using the Curran “Leggiero” model mouthpiece. The blend with a section of smaller horns is really special, and both soft and articulated passages are a breeze. I use the Leggiero with a single-valve bass trombone for these situations, or for when I want to play a tenor.
And for those moments when you really need an extra gear in your low playing, I present to you “The Crusher” Curran mouthpiece. It has a deeper sound than the Orchestral model and centers extremely well in the low range. It does a great job in the middle and upper ranges as well, though its specialty is to lay the foundation of a larger section or in a trombone choir.
All of these mouthpieces have similar rims and throats, so switching from one to another doesn’t take any adjustment at all. "
-George Curran, Bass Trombone, New York Philharmonic
