Your list of requirements probably requires more than one mouthpiece. For example, "ability to play really really loudly" usually goes along with a more open tip which isn't necessarily what you want for classical playing which is better suited with a more closed tip opening.
The numbers on the facing signify the tip opening. So for classical playing, you might be suited with a 5 or 6 facing but you might need an 8 facing to get the loud jazz sound you are after.
It IS difficult to know where to start. My recommendation is to find a music store that you can try mouthpieces or find a mouthpiece seller that allows returns or trade-ins so you can trial some different things before committing to any one (or two) mouthpieces.
It is a journey, so be patient. Good Luck.
- Ed
The numbers on the facing signify the tip opening. So for classical playing, you might be suited with a 5 or 6 facing but you might need an 8 facing to get the loud jazz sound you are after.
It IS difficult to know where to start. My recommendation is to find a music store that you can try mouthpieces or find a mouthpiece seller that allows returns or trade-ins so you can trial some different things before committing to any one (or two) mouthpieces.
It is a journey, so be patient. Good Luck.
- Ed
