Michael Dodd

We all know that a mouthpiece is where it all begins, so why do so many young players feel that the mouthpiece presented to them for producing their first note is the one that should remain with them until the end of time? Now is the time to discard the myth of ‘everlasting mouthpieces’ and to pick and chose the best tool to suit.

I have tried and tested many mouthpieces over the years, and I was recently asked to road test the new Steven Mead SMFU Ultra in gold for euphonium by Denis Wick. If you are considering venturing out into the world of mouthpiece choice or thinking about an up-grade, this is definitely one to try.

With its subtle curvature and non-imposing top rim the SM4U is aesthetically pleasing. The gold-plated version that I played on complimented my silver Besson Prestige instrument and said “notice me – I’m the latest thing”.

But the main question is, of course, is it any good? My answer would be a resounding “yes”. For me, a euphonium is the epitome of pure sound and should bring colour and shading to a brass band at any level. The heavy weight and increased depth of the SM4U Ultra really accentuates the true nature of the sound of the euphonium, bringing with it bigger and warmer tones, especially in the lower register.