Mute Theory

Rwwilson · Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 10:49 am Post subject: Mute Theory

Does anyone know of a source for the theory of mute design? In particular, designing them so they don’t overly impact the tuning of the trumpet. I’m a wood worker and have been trying my hand at making wooden trumpet mutes. My first attempt was a simple conical straight mute. I made it about 2/3 the length of my tried and true stone lined mute. It sounded OK on notes above first line e, but for notes below that it impacted the slotting of the trumpet to the extent that I could not play them. I know I can just model my mutes after existing ones but I was curious about how they were designed. Trial and error or some sound theory?

Divitt Trumpets · Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 12:17 pm Post subject:

There are no books on the subject.
Trial and error, and looking at what's on the market to see the common features is the best way.

Took me around 50 designs to get my practice mute worth selling.
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kehaulani · Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 12:39 pm Post subject:

You'll have to do the research yourself, but it's possible there's an academic paper (Master Thesis?) on mutes. Or perhaps a work on musical acoustics/design with a mute subsection.
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Rwwilson · Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 2:04 pm Post subject:

Short update. I made my previous attempt longer by adding a cylindrical section at its end and now it plays in tune across the entire range of my trumpet. It is a little louder and more mellow than my old stone lined.

DJtpt31 · Posted: Sun Dec 26, 2021 4:39 pm Post subject:

If you're interested in getting feedback from the community I'm sure there are people who would be happy to try out your mutes including myself.