Mercer & Barker launch Crockford sop mouthpiece

The new MB4-KC has been launched, inspired by the attributes that have made Kevin Crockford on of the most decorated soprano player sin the brass band world.

Kevin Crockford is arguably the most decorated soprano playing in the banding movement.

Friday, 07 March 2025

Mercer & Barker has teamed up with legendary soprano cornet player Kevin Crockford to produce a new mouthpiece.

The new MB4-KC is based on the Salvation Army 'Rangefinder' model that Kevin has used throughout his 50-year career and which has seen him help bands such as Black Dyke, Grimethorpe, Desford and many more to win a host of major contest titles.

My choice

Speaking about the new venture Kevin said: "Soprano cornet mouthpieces have always generated strong debate, and I've always been asked what I look for in my choice.

The 'Rangefinder' has always enabled me to maintain a big, full sound quality without losing the ability to sit on top of a band at the top of the range. The rim is essential to this to stop the mouthpiece digging in, especially when it comes to near the end of a concert when fatigue is setting in.

Players are all different but the team at Mercer & Barker have taken a great deal of time talking to players to get their opinions. This serious research especially in relation to my requirements has meant that they have got the new MB4-KC just right."

Perfect sound

He added: "It is of similar depth to my old mouthpiece, the rim is nicely rounded and it enables me to deliver the perfect soprano playing sound and characteristics.

The aesthetics and quality of manufacture are simply stunning. This ais a brilliant mouthpiece for me — and one to seriously consider for any player."

It's been a huge honour to work with Kevin on this new mouthpiece. His insight and clarity in explaining his requirements and what the mouthpiece should help enable a player to do was incredibleMercer & Barker

Huge honour

A spokesperson for Mercer & Barker told 4BR: "It's been a huge honour to work with Kevin on this new mouthpiece. His insight and clarity in explaining his requirements and what the mouthpiece should help enable a player to do was incredible.

We are delighted with the end result, and we are sure fellow soprano player will be too — so why not get in touch and find out more or drop in and see our trade stands at the Regional Championships."

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