runyon custom 9,11,or 12?

[sam_2d]

i have been changing my mind back and forth from quantum and a custom and i have finally decided to buy the custum because the mouthpeice i buy would have to be used in jazz and in concert band. I have been playing for about 4 years now and was thinking i should buy a 9, 11,or 12. i was just afraid i wouldnt be able to play on the 11 or 12.i wanted the 11, and 12 so i would have something to grow into. any help on what i should get ?

[colibri]

Don't be afraid to get a 12. Runyons are very easy on chops so it'll feel normal. But of course if you're used to a small mouthpiece then it'll take time to get your chops adjusted.

[MS]

For alto or tenor? With four years experience and to use in concert band and jazz band, you might consider something a little smaller, especially if you play alto.

[MojoBari]

Dont get something to grow into. Get a piece to fit you. I think you should try some in the 7-10 range on tenor, 6-9 on alto.

[Paul Coats]

I have fitted hundreds, maybe over a thousand players with Customs, and have had opportunity to make some educated observations.

With only 4 years experience, on either alto or tenor, I would highly recommend the 7. This will be large enough for you for jazz band, and yet, comfortable and controllable for concert band. I would NOT get any larger.

If, in a few years, you feel you need a larger mouthpiece, simply mail it to Runyon Products, enclose a money order for $25, and mark it Attention Leroy, and ask for it to be refaced to whatever size you want.

I will tell you this... about 50% of the players prefer the 7 in alto, with smaller percentages playing 6 and 8 (about 15-20% each), and even fewer players playing 5 or 9.

For tenor, about 50% of the players prefer the7's and 8's, with fewer choosing 6 or 9, etc. A sort of bell curve in the preferences. In the tenor sizes, younger players seem to do better with the 7's, and older players prefer the 8's.

I can promise you will be having problems with the low notes, playing softly, and have fatigue, biting through the lower lip, etc, with the 9-12 sizes.

If it makes an impression on you, Mr. Runyon himself played the 7's on alto. He once stated to me, "One of my Custom #7's, and a 2 1/2 Rico is all any player would ever need to play lead alto."