6. Plunger Mutes

The plunger mute takes its name from the toilet plunger! It’s used in a similar manner to the ‘bowler hat’ mute which was widely used in the big-bands of the 20s. By manipulating the mute in front of the bell of the instrument, a player can create a surprisingly wide array of sounds, ranging from one similar to a cup mute, to a wah-wah effect, but without the harshness of a harmon mute. The plunger mute was famously used on Glenn Miller’s ‘Tuxedo Junction’.

Plunger mute
Denis Wick Trombone Plunger Mute

Sound Samples

Trumpet sound without mute

Trumpet sound without mute

Plunger

Plunger

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