New Vocalise Bb Clarinet Mouthpieces by Hawkins/Backun

This is the new Hawkins Backun Vocalise series mouthpiece for Bb clarinet. These pieces are made by a joint venture with Richard Hawkins and Backun to develop a series of professional mouthpieces to carry on the tradition of Hawkins' popular line of pieces. Designed at Backun using advanced CAD/CAM software and tested with 3D printing technology, these mouthpieces are crafted from hard rod rubber on a highly advanced nine-axis CNC machine and finished in a unique done-in-one machining program that combines the milling and lathing processes without the need for a second setup or recalibration. This results in an exceptionally consistent mouthpiece that stays true to the original design.

Available in 3 facings :

• R Model (Close/Short) - Evenness and a focus of sound that sings with ease are two characteristics of this close facing mouthpiece. The R allows artists to articulate with reduced effort, while ringing true with fabulous clarity. This is Hawkins’s choice for young artists looking to step up to a more complex mouthpiece.
• G Model (Medium/Medium) - A medium faced mouthpiece that combines exceptional evenness and round tonal complexity. The G has a smoother influence on interval connections just where you need it. An all-around mouthpiece for those who prefer medium facings and lengths.
• H Model (Open/Long) - The most open facing in the lineup, the H is both smooth and dark, with ample cushion for those who need more robust flexibility throughout the registers. This mouthpiece gives as much as it takes, requiring balanced breath support and unyielding passion in performance.

These pieces have been extensively play-tested by our clarinet tech and professional, Audrey Denny (who loves her original Hawkins hand finished mouthpiece). She thought the G in particular most closely resembles her original Hawkins and is an incredible mouthpiece. The H is also quite nice, for those looking for a larger, more open facing, and the R is a solid choice for younger players, as its smaller facing may be more comfortable for students. Together, the 3 pieces offer a range of options for players at all levels.