Topmusicanswers
The harmon mute, also known as the wa-wa, wow-wow, or wah-wah mute, is available for trumpet and trombone and is mainly used in jazz. Unlike the cup and straight mutes, it has a cork that completely blocks airflow around the mute.
What does trumpet mute mean?
A mute is a device brass players use to lower the volume and/or alter the timbre (tonal quality) of the instrument. Mutes fit directly into the bell of the instrument, or are held or clipped on. Even though the word “mute” means silence, a muted horn still makes sound.
Which mute did Miles Davis use?
Miles was more introverted in his approach. He used a Harmon mute — it wasn't really popular before he started to use it — and it's a very beautiful sound.
Why do trumpeters use a mute?
A mute is a device inserted into the bell of a trumpet to either make the tone produced softer, to change the tone quality, and with the Baroque trumpet, to change the tonality. The most common types of mutes are the straight mute, the cup mute, and the wah-wah mute.
