Metal mouthpiece refaced?

Demolisher_2000 said:

Hey, Im wondering if metal mouthpieces can be refaced or repaired? Also, Ive heard of lots of mouthpieces being opened up but can you ever make the tip opening of a mouthpiece smaller?

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Yes on both counts. If it's a stainless steel piece, it's extremely time consuming (thus expensive) to go much more than .005" on a tip opening adjustment (either more open or more closed).

Closing down the piece involves working the table, so one of the caveats is that if you have a specific ligature you like to use with a piece, the ligature may fit more loosely once the piece has been closed down. Something to consider with a ligature like a Vandoren Optimum or Francois Louis where they are not adjustable across a wide range of pieces (though slightly accomodating).

Of course, starting with a piece that is of similar design but a smaller facing can usually get you there as well.

Demolisher_2000 said:

Thanks guys,
What about a selmer metal piece? I assume its brass with silver plate.

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You are correct, sir. Very workable! And very sweet on alto, those pieces are. I don't do replating, so the brass is exposed when I am finished with a plated piece, but there are sources that can replate pieces that have been worked. I've never had it done - I just know they are out there.