OK, here we go 🥳.. I just ordered a matte black WCW 56 Mk II for alto sax; My curiosity got to me, so after I get it and check it out, I’ll report back on how I think Dr.W., Theo, and WCW did. Might take a couple of weeks though…
Wally, I can't say enough about the support you have built up. It is clear that you have helped a lot of people with their craft. Playing the saxophone "perfectly" is a quest that none of us will achieve, but none the less you are making the journey so much more enjoyable. A very wise man once told me that if I am having a bad day, go try to find someone to help. Then he went on to say that if you help out people before you have a bad day, your bad days will start to disappear. You clearly are living that nugget of wisdom. Well done.
Doc, you’re easily becoming one of my favorite saxophonist and I wish i had this information back in high school. However the content you’ve been producing has been nothing short than amazing, you are an excellent musician which is a given but also a fantastic teacher which is hard to find one that can do both adequately. Thank you so much for you hard work and dedication to advancing the saxophone community. I personally am very grateful and will take advantage of this free gift you’re giving us and I will continue to push myself towards mastery
The quality of the video is truly amazing, and the mouthpiece is beautiful. I'm happy to see you so happy playing on a mouthpiece that is not that expensive. Thanks for this great content!
Thanks Joel! It's really important to me to play what I recommend. When students kept asking me what they should get, I couldn't tell them to hunt for a $300+ vintage piece. Luckily, when I reached out to Windy City Woodwinds to solve the problem, they totally got it and nailed the design!
Congratulations Dr Wally and guys from Windy City! It looks and sounds beautiful! It's refreshing to see someone offering such an amazing mouthpiece at an affordable price. It's a rarity in today's world 🙏🏼
The moment you started playing it I fell in love with the sound. Definitely putting it on my list of items to buy soon. Love WCW for the work they are doing.
Got my '56 today. Love it! Thanks for making a quality mouthpiece at an affordable price. I really appreciate how much you do for the saxophone community.
Thanks Blaine! (and thanks for your patience). It was, in a sense, an almost selfish endeavor: I wanted it!! The fact that my students could buy one for cheap was gravy on the vintage dish!
I've been following the progress of this mouthpiece over their Instagram account and you can definitively tell that they are working hard to get the highest quality possible! Great work there! I hope I can get one of those beauties and test the hell out of them!!!
Mine arrived this week. Only had time to test it for about 10 minutes so far but I've gotta say, I'm impressed! This thing will stay on my sax for a while
Dr. Wally, I met up with a friend yesterday who just purchased one of these mouthpieces. He let me take it for a test drive and I must say, I was very blown away by the quality of this mouthpiece and the incredible flexibility of it. I too love the west coast sound, Art Pepper and Bud Shank have been big influences on my playing. So this morning I ordered one of these mouthpieces for alto and I’m excited. Been playing on a long shank soloist the last couple of years and an old Meyer before that. This mouthpiece blows them out of the water! Cheers!
Hello Dr. Wally, after a 7 weeks odyssey from the US to Germany via Qatar and Greece I now have it finally in my hands. I am playing a Vandoren V16 A7 with 2.5 reeds and I was very happy with this setup. I ordered the WCW without really needing it nor with too high expectations. But as a fan of your videos (which I consider as remarkable treasures - I appreciate your sense of humor) you made me curious. And I am more than surprised. I can confirm what most of the other customers said, it plays well in all registers. But what it makes it even more interesting is a much better dynamic play. Even with soft and quiet blowing, I can produce a much clearer and stable tone compared to my other mouthpieces. I am still a beginner, a pro would maybe not consider this as important, but for me it increases joy and motivation a lot. Thanks for all. I can’t wait to showing it to my teacher. Regards, Norbert
That's fantastic Norbert!! What you're experiencing, even as a beginner is the "ease" of play. The design balances resistance. Far too many modern pieces aim for "free blowing" which just doesn't feel great to me (preferring warmer, mid-century jazz). I'm so glad you're pleased! It's not a beginner, or pro mouthpiece - it's just a great mouthpiece. I'm so thrilled we were able to create something at such a great price. Thanks for the update, and happy practicing!
I played on Lakey 5*3 which has the same opening of 0.080”. Both have basically the same resistance and are easy to play with a 2.5 reed. The tone is darker and more refined on wcw! It’s a very nice sound.
I received my 56 Mk II yesterday, and played it tonight for the first time. So far I'm loving it. You were on the money about the reed strength . . . a Boston Sax Shop 3 gave me a dry martini, and a Hemke 2.5 gave me something with a bit more punch. I'm not crazy about the WCW ring ligature (it doesn't slide down far enough past the shoulder for my preference), but a Vandoren MO worked well. Looking forward to getting to know it better!
Hey, that's fantastic! I don't really care for ring ligatures, but we wanted to include one just incase this is someone's first mouthpiece and did not have one. Glad you're loving it, I'm still loving mine as well!
Dr Wallace I bought this mouthpiece and got it Saturday. I just had a chance to play it today! It is my favorite mouthpiece by far. It checks all the boxes that I was looking for. I love the ease of play and the beautiful sound. It seals very well and passes the pop test with ease.
After hearing your mission statement regarding this mpc, I’m really really keen on purchasing one to support the cause. And given the price to performance/quality ratio, this mouthpiece is unbeatable. Amazing product u got here Doc. I’ll be getting one for Christmas 👍🏼
I've received my 56 mouthpiece and it is fantastic. I'm use to playing bright high powered mouthpiece, but I usually sacrifice control and intonation. The 56 is a very professional playing and sounding mouthpiece that sits perfect under a trumpet in a horn stack.
Wow. I know I'm a year or so behind, but can I just say this is *amazing*. Thank you so much for the work you're doing, not just with the amazing videos, but now a *really* sweet mouthpiece too. Plus it's always great to see more color options. The white really stands out, but it looks kind of sophisticated at the same time 😍
Now, before I have to go wait in the car... I truly love this mouthpiece, great value for the cost! It sounds amazing on my alto; but, it sounds FANTASTIC on my C-Melody.
Hey Dr Wally! My “56” arrived this morning - it is quite excellent. I’ve just finished playing for nearly 2 hours - normally my lip gives out after about 45 minutes. It really is quite amazing. I was a little unsure about ordering one from here in England because, as a relative beginner, my mouthpieces have a much smaller tip opening. However, it plays beautifully from top to bottom and much better than any of my other pieces - including a few vintage Brilharts. And such a lovely tone too. I’ve been following you for about a month now - thank you so much for all your great lessons, inspiration and guidance.
@@drwallysax Thanks very much. Daunting 😯 but yea! I can do that - I think! 😊 Where should I send it? It's still amazes me that it plays better and easier than my other mouthpieces.
Got mine in the mail today, it sings! Exactly what I was expecting and looking for, very warm and mellow but its can project surprisingly far when pushed. It would work very well in either a combo setting or playing lead alto.
Yes!!! I'm glad you like it! Obviously I love it, or would never put my name on it (figuratively). I had a feeling the Academy peeps would love it as well. As you noted, I love the versatility, you can get the west coast cool sound, but with a slightly softer reed, lead a big band section no problem. And all for under $100, I'm proud of this lil' mouthpiece! Thanks for the great feedback, makes my day, Evan!
Thanks Andreas! It really is my favorite mouthpiece. If I was going to sell it, I had to make sure it was what I was playing on 100% of the time - in the studio, everywhere! Appreciate the kind words my friend!
Awesome, and thanks for supporting the Academy! I know you'll love it - I'm crazy over mine! Vintage souls UNITE, Scott! (we need an old-time secret handshake).
Dr. Wally, love your UA-cam channel, your master class and informative videos have helped me a lot.. I've already ordered my 56/0.80 Alto MP. If I like it, I'll ordered the other three... baritone, tenor, and soprano... What's attractive in these promotions, is the price. I'm very leery about what these modern mouth piece are going for. I've been playing the sax for over 50 years, on and off and remember paying under a hundred dollars for a good mouth piece in the 70's, now... 200.00 and better... some vintage going for over 500.00, and you don't even know if it's going to be right for you, and sold most of the time as a no return, so you'll need to pass it on, and sometimes at a lost... This mission Dr. Wally is on, could help many of the beginners and seasoned players like me, who don't gig anymore, who are living on a fix or budgeted income, and now will be able to afford a good playing, free blowing mouth piece at a price that will not break the bank... My concern now, is what opening to chose for my Mark VI Tenor MP, my baritone and Soprano... Yep, I play them all... and it ran me over 1,600.00 from another brand, with these MP's it's be under 500.00. Well, we'll see how well the MP will perform for me... Thanks Dr. Wally... Now to wait for the 2-3 weeks to receive the MP's.
Phil, glad you made your order. I think you will like the work we did with these mouthpieces. We also will likely have these in the mail within the next 7 days, so you can cut that delivery time in half! :). Dave (WCW Staff)
Just wanted to send a big Thank You Dr. Wally!!! I just received my 56 in the mail late last week, and couldn't be happier. I love the tone, which seems to easily play a mix of both louder/brighter, or darker/mellow depending on reed, breath and embouchure. But my favorite thing aside from the tone is that, I'm quite sure is due to the hand facing, that reeds that wouldn't seal/play well on my Claude Lakey sound fantastic on this piece, so I have a lot of experimenting to do. At this stage, all I'm hoping for is that the tenor version is coming sooner than later. :o)
I too love the "cool school" of playing and think it's great you've partnered with a company to produce a mouthpiece with a proper tip opening. I need another mouthpiece like a new hole in my head, however. But I'm tempted because the price is fantastic.
Wow ... What Great News !.. and...that Feb Blues (Int) is really a great etude . Im very impressed... and also love the..more Emotionally Restrained ? Aesthetic (of the Cool Jazz Era)
I already biught the first WCW alto mpc you showed (I took a .80 opening). I finally found the best sound on Vandoren Great Concert 3. I'll order this new mpc and I'm looking forward to try it !!! Thanks Doc !!
Hi Doc, I've just got my '56 and played it for a few hours: it is surprisingly good! It's easy to play, super volume control, easy on altissimo (high Bb at first shot, I mean the fourth Bb as hamonic). Lush on low register, brighter on the high side. I played it with a Vandoren ZZ n. 3.5 on my 1927 silver Chu Berry. A great mpc. Same level of my HR Meyer 8 and D'Addario Select Jazz n.7 (the 2 mpc I like and play the most). So, thank you !!!
Yes, both alto and tenor... '27 and '28, both silver. There's nothing like those ones... at least for me ! I went through the 'vintage' desease 20 years ago and I finally sticked on old Chus..
Hi Dr. Wally! I spent the whole day yesterday looking between mouthpieces to buy. I looked at your reviews and other ones and was about to purchase before I decided to wait. And now, right on cue, you brought this amazing product. I'm preordering now and can't wait to try it! You're the best. Ps If you're ever in Austin I'll be happy to buy you as many cups of coffee as you want.
@@drwallysax I can't wait for it to arrive! As for Austin, I'd recommend waiting for the snow to pass ... afterwards, Mozarts Cafe is a good place to start.
I've been meaning to get a decent affordable one and not sure which one to choose from. Thanks to you, Dr. Wally for making that possible and I am looking forward to one :)
Llegó mi boquilla 56 a España hace un mes. Es una boquilla fantástica y muy versátil, hermoso tono y mucha proyección. Muchas gracias por su recomendación.Saludos desde España.
I just received my mouthpiece, so I thought I’d give my opinion…….WOW!!!!!! I took it out the box, table was like glass, smooth and there were no imperfections. I put it on the horn and gave it a blow and I was AMAZED. The sound was incredible, full with a hint or dark (not at all bright or shrill). Plays great in all registers too. I had to compare it next to my JJ DV NY (I appreciate one is metal and the other is not), but I have to say, it played better! £80 vs £415 and the WCW won hands down! I take my hat off to you, I was very sceptical buying a cheaper 3D printer mouthpiece but you proved me wrong, truly is one of the best mouthpieces I have played. Well done all of you 👏 This will be my no.1 mouthpiece going forward, credit you you all!! People in the UK 🇬🇧 need to play this mouthpiece
This makes me so incredibly happy, thanks for sharing Thomas! Obviously I feel the same, I've been playing mine nonstop since December (when it was in prototype)! Happy practicing, Thomas!
Wow, this is the perfect brilhart inspired herb geller and bud shank mouthpiece! Art pepper could have played this. I love the fact that it's got the .080" tip opening which is a perfect Meyer 7MM (.081"). Because this is hand faced, it's way better than other 3D printed mouthpieces. You are getting a classic bebop, cool school sound like Arnie Lawrence or Lee Konitz. You could even use this for incredible big band lead alto.
Absolutely, Grant! That was my goal. Man, so sad we lost Konitz last year (though he had a long marvelous life). It's got as much power as my Ebolin and Tonalin - but much more reed friendly. I'm so in love with the cool school, it's my greatest passion (outside family, of course) :)
@@drwallysax yes!!! please join my Facebook group called "Bebop Saxophone" and post this ad !!! I want the people to hear your playing. You got that great west coast tone!!! reminds me of supersax.....
@@drwallysax yes. I know what you mean, On facebook everyone thinks of themselves as being the next trane, Bird, or brecker. It can get pretty egotistical.
Just to be 100% transparent - this isn't a review! It's a partnership that that supports the Academy, so I can't claim it as an unbiased "review." I absolutely love the thing, but don't want anyone to be misled! Glad you like the Bari piece. I was a customer of WCW first, so felt confident in their quality and mission before reaching out about this project!
I just received the 56 alto Mk II in the mail today (.70 tip opening). I played it right away and... before I say anything else, a bit of context. I'm in my mid-50s and just picked up the saxophone about 9 months ago. After starting on a Yamaha 4C, I switched to a Vandoren AP3 mouthpiece and I've been using it for the last six months (playing about an hour a day). The AP3 is terrific, especially for a beginner, but it is definitely designed for classical playing. As much as I like the AP3, I'm at the point where I want to find a mouthpiece that will let me start me to explore a broader sound pallet and play with a bit more "oomph." I'm looking for a focused and somewhat dark sound but also want to be able to project when needed. At the same time, I need something that is easy for a newbie to play. Over the last few weeks, I've tried about 10 different mouthpieces. While they were all excellent products, none of them felt quite right. Many were too bright. Others were just too hard to play (even those in a size 5 tip opening). I was about to give up, but decided to give the 56 a try. It was literally the last one I was going to test drive. And now for the good news: I LOVE IT! It was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much for creating such an excellent mouthpiece--and one that is affordable. I look forward to many hours of playing on the Mk II and maybe one day giving the Select a try. 😁
Got my preorder in just in time! Can’t wait to see how it stacks up against my vintage 1940s Meyers Bros 4M. Always in search of that Paul Desmond sound.
Meyer 4 is a VERY different mouthpiece, but I think you're going to love the 56! I have an alarming collection of mouthpieces, this thing is my favorite.
¡¡¡ that's an amazing price !!!! I think there's hardly anything that really plays under $100. (You should see my mpc collection - I think I could buy that Aston Martin for it 😳). Great insights into the 3D production process as well. As usual, great stuff! 👏👏👏
Ha! My wife found my "collection" when we moved....she was NOT amused. Thanks Kurt - I'm over the moon with this mouthpiece, really excited for my students to have access to the same thing I play!
@@ronrobbins2737 I've not noticed any difference in altissimo! It will never be as easy as a mouthpiece with a bit baffle, but my altissimo is just as easy as a Meyer or similar piece.
@@drwallysax Very interesting sir, thanks! I am definitely getting more and more used to this 56, And feeling more comfortable with it every day. Seems a big improvement over my recent BEECHLER experiment。
Got my 56..gotta say..I like it.. I’m going to stick with it for a bit.. Thinking it will be my go to mouthpiece.. Now all I need is a stylish suit/ tie.. and then the forehead hair “V” thing...
It's called a "widow's peak" you magnificent beast. You can borrow mine. I'm so glad you like it! I had a very fun chat with the WCW boys, and we've got some COOOOOL things planned for this line of mouthpiece. I'm in love with mine!
Really love your videos. I ordered this mouthpiece. Can’t wait to try it. I was curious about what you thought about a selmer soloist? I am looking to try a “classical” mouthpiece and maybe something that can do both since Kenny Garrett plays one. I’m used to a .80 tip opening like the 56. Should I try the selmer soloist F?
Man I could not resist after hearing your fantastic smooth tone. I have the 56 ordered. Can you now find a way I can skip the years of practice its going to take me to sound as good :) Thanks for another great video.
SO tempted to try this - I feel like I lost some brightness when I went from my Meyer 5M to an Otto Link 6*...maybe a "bump" up to this opening, with the walled off chamber could bring that focus back. Regardless - nice looking piece!
I know what you mean - the Link has a beautiful core - but missing some color at the edges? I like the Meyer - but this just "feels" right to me. Happy practicing my friend!
Dr. Wally: You may be wondering, "why is this less than half the price of other 3D mouthpieces?" (Incredulous but gentlemanly look by Dr. Wally) That LOOK! It spoke volumes and I even like some of the pieces that other manufacturer makes!
Oh man, that's awesome Andy - I have no doubt you'll love it! I was TERRIFIED sticking the sharp metal calipers in my vintage Tonalin to get measurements. But after trying the last few prototypes - I DIDDN'T CARE! I like this better. Happy practicing my friend!
It looks like the 'other brand' 3-D mouthpiece I felt obliged to hang on to might now end up on eBay! Dr Wally, this looks amazing and something I really want to pre-order. I've a feeling it'll sound great on my vintage alto.
I hope you love it! There's no way I'd put my name "on" it unless it were truly my favorite mouthpiece. The fact that its $90 is just a bonus. I mean, I won't be trading in my "Long Island Watch" for a Rolex any time soon - but I'm thrilled that my students can get the same great mouthpiece I play within most budgets!
Well, my 56 has arrived and I love it. Quality all the way. The weight and feel is exactly as you described in the video. I've not played it extensively yet but I'm impressed by its versatility. It can belt out serious sound whilst allowing very delicate tones too. Superb.
59’ I thought was Jazz’s seat at the big table. With ‘kinda Blue’. Irregardless, I’ve been shopping. Three other you tube sax teachers have their mouthpiece models out also. (Jay, Nigel, Scott) Your is the one I’m getting cause I see what goes into it.
Wait, Nigel St. Caire has a mouthpiece? '59 was an amazing year indeed. For alto tone - '56 was my favorite. Thanks for your support, George, I think you're gonna love the mouthpiece.
Love this Wally. I’m glad you finally have your own mouthpiece with a trusted company. I have one question, is it good at altissimo? Congrats again man👍🏽💪🏽
It’s as good as any mouthpiece with a rollover baffle - very easy. I debated about doing a demo, because honestly, at this stage I can get altissimo out of a garden hose 🤷♂️
Sounds great! Looks really cool as well! Any plans to make a tenor version of this mouthpiece? I'm currently still playing on my first and only Yamaha 4C as I'm getting the basics of the instrument, however I've been thinking about my next possible mouthpiece more and more
Great sound Dr Wally! Is the tip opening (and the mouthpiece for that matter) suitable for players with only 6 months/about 125 hours of experience? (somebody compared it with Meyer 7mm.) Would Vandoren Java red unfiled 2.0 work on it? I have to correct you on your Formula 1 statement btw, F1 cars are becoming more and more quiet.
As a tenor sax student for the past 6 years, I'm always on the lookout for a mouthpiece that will provide me with a warm Paul Desmond sound. Last week I received my WCW Concert Series, which I am really enjoying. My question is, in your opinion, is there much difference between the "56" and the "Concert Series". Wishing you continued success, especially with your Cool School video's
HUGE difference. The concert series is a classical piece with a very small tip opening. The 56 has a larger tip opening and vintage jazz chamber profile. Two completely different pieces!
The 56 is warmer and a bit more of the vintage vibe I adore. I like the boo-berry, but this (to my ear) has a fuller core. I'm obviously biased, it's made to my exact taste!
Ordered so fast. Only thing I'm not looking forward to is the wait. I've been playing a Boston Sax Shop 3 or Rigotti 3.5 on a Tonalin, but I haven't tried a 4. Maybe I oughta try once I get this, I really enjoyed your sound
@@dennischacko499 That's the funny thing, My Tonalin was not as reed friendly - too stiff and it got all stuffy. Try it though - could totally work on yours!
@@drwallysax I will try and get something to you on the weekend! It is a very different mouthpiece from all the others in my collection...I have a few! I am enjoying it quite a bit.
Dr. Wally I love most of your teachings. So thank you for all the info you share with the world. My question to you is that you are dressed so perfectly in all your you tube appearances. It's hard to find anything out of place. You are also funny but straight. Nothing wrong in that . Wondering if you have casual clothes as well. Sorry for being nosy but I just wonder. No need to even answer. 😊👍🏾🙏🏾🎷🎶
That is my casual suit. Seriously, I dress that part to create a sense of "occasion." I want those who can't afford lessons to feel like the instruction is something special, something I put my all into. I'm quite casual in my actual life - but for my students, I really want to make each interaction feel a bit special. Make sense?
sounds wonderful, how about the Tenor mouthpiece, is that similar quality and are any reviews available, which one would you choose for the kind of music you teach in the course?
Hi Dr Wally, very nice mouthpiece, it's definitely going to be on my radar. I currently play a Vandoren AL4 (it's a little weird but I like it). I'm having trouble on my alto and I'm hoping you maybe can point me at the best place to fix it, I think it's my technique. On soprano, I can start on low Bb no issue, playing a 2.5 strength reed. On alto, regardless of the mouthpiece, even with a 2.0 reed I can barely hit low D and anything below that is iffy, B and Bb are basically impossible. I took the horn to get it looked at, and the tech made some adjustments and seemed to be able to play it well enough, but while it seemed better, I'm still struggling on the low end. It's almost as if I'm holding the octave key, but once I get above G everything seems happy again. Given all that, what am I doing wrong?
Hi John! Sorry you're having alto problems! I hate to say it, but without being able to test your horn myself or see you play in person, I can't accurately say what the issue is! Embouchure tension is the usual culprit - but if you're having no problem on soprano - I'm assuming you are doing ok on alto? I'm sorry to not be more help, but I don't want to give you bad information having not actually seen you or your instrument! Good luck and please do keep me posted!
Hi Dr. Wally, I love everything you are doing! How would this MP do with a vintage saxophone? I am playing a Buescher TruTone ca1926, and I’ve been told to stick to vintage pieces or very large chamber, to fit the geometry of the horn. Thank you for the accessibility of your instruction.
Hey P.J.! I can't say for certain, but I played on a 1924 TruTone for many years. Intonation is a bit different, but mine worked with the Brilhart style mouthpiece (that this is based off). Can't say for certain - it's been a good number of years since I've played a horn that old! Happy practicing my friend!
No recordings yet! But once we're pumped full of vaccine, the Sononatus are going to release a full length LP - full of cool-jazz nerdy goodness! (and thanks for asking, that was kind).
I already have what I considered a really great mouthpiece (a Phil-Tone refaced Ebolin); however, I'll give it a try. If it turns out not to be my cup of tea I'll try to make sure it finds a good home.
You'll find the character VERY similar to the Ebolin - was the inspiration for the design. I hope you love it! My main reason for switching (and approaching WCW) was 1. My Tonalin (and Ebolin) has lil' micro-cracks and is annoyingly fragile. 2. I couldn't send my students on an Ebolin/Tonalin goose chase! Hope you're well, JoAnn - it's been a while! Things good in your neck of the woods?
@@drwallysax We have similar sound concepts so I expect to enjoy it. As for the Ebolin/Tonalin goose chase I know all about that (Ha!) Did you ever try the ARB Great Neck pieces which are supposed to be based on Tonalin blanks? I've been shedding on Baritone recently. 180-200 bpm bebop licks are a challenge for me, but on baritone??? It turns out I'm working on a Alto/Baritone duet where the alto gets the melodic ballady part and the baritone is backing it with bebop inspired phrasing. Good times! Hey I see your subscriber base is growing. I'm very glad to see that.
@@drwallysax Just received my 56 today. It matched up pretty well with a Vandoren Blue box #3.0 reed. I'm loving it so far. It sounds nearly identical to my Brilhart Ebolin but it is more even across registers. The palm keys really sing and are quite full. I was pleasantly surprised.
@@drwallysax I'm pretty happy with my Otto Link HR #7, but this mouthpiece sounds good, is affordable, without the drawbacks of other 3D printed mpcs and is from my home-town, the Windy City (even though I haven't lived there for 50 years, it still has its attraction).
Damn -$105 to the UK, that's hard to pass up. I will take your word for it and order one. Playing Debussy on a 8* Florida Dukoff is too much like hard work.
Once I get my alto later this year I’ll get this mouthpiece. For the price and tone it’s a no-brainer. In the meantime, anything in the works for us soprano players?
I know WCW has a soprano piece, but I haven't tried it yet! I honestly only play classical soprano....whilst wearing a bowtie...and drinking sparkling cider....on a unicycle....
great MP, i got one today and it is great with a nice warm tone :) I am not a big fan of the ring ligature that comes with it. I see you have something else, what is that?
Hi doc! In your opinion would this mouthpiece work well with Plasticover reeds? I recently bought a white BEECHLER tonalex model that seems a little iffy quality wise. But the white color sure does make adjusting those dark reads easier!
I can't say for sure, BUT, Legere just sent me a huge box of synthetic reeds and I LOVE them. In fact, check out my last UA-cam video (on ii/Vs) - I was playing on Legere reeds on that video!
I have a couple of Syos mouthpieces. I think they are similar in composition. The method of checking for a good seal on your reed by holding against palm and sucking the air out does not work on those. Does it work on this beautiful bone ‘56’ alto mouthpiece? Very tempting... and I don’t even own an alto yet!!
Doc, just received my 56 in the mail today. I was so excited, but that was short lived. The table has horizontal machine marks and it just won't seal. I've already sent an email to WCW with a photo. I don't fault them, with the high demand they currently have, something is bound to slip through occasionally.
I'm going to personally make sure this is corrected. Would you please send me a message on my website? thesaxophoneacademy.com (contact form). Give me your best email address and I'll follow up with you personally. I'm texting the WCW team right now. I know you've been waiting, and that's incredibly frustrating.
@@drwallysax I'll shoot you an email. Honestly though, I'm not upset at all. That team and the product you all came up with is well worth the wait, and it wasn't even due until the end of the month if not beginning in May.
Hi Doc, I assume this is the original 56 version? If so, could we see a possible comparison betw this and the newer 56 MK II model sometime down the line?
I love that they addressed the inherent issues with 3d printed mouthpieces.
Hey Adriene! They really are using the technology the right way, it’s a great playing piece. Hope you and the family are well!
👋🏼😊 I just love seeing players I follow following other players I follow! Hope that made sense 😂
@@l.j.2917 We have a secret clubhouse you know?
@@drwallysax 😮😮😮(gasps)!!!
OK, here we go 🥳.. I just ordered a matte black WCW 56 Mk II for alto sax; My curiosity got to me, so after I get it and check it out, I’ll report back on how I think Dr.W., Theo, and WCW did. Might take a couple of weeks though…
Wally, I can't say enough about the support you have built up. It is clear that you have helped a lot of people with their craft. Playing the saxophone "perfectly" is a quest that none of us will achieve, but none the less you are making the journey so much more enjoyable. A very wise man once told me that if I am having a bad day, go try to find someone to help. Then he went on to say that if you help out people before you have a bad day, your bad days will start to disappear. You clearly are living that nugget of wisdom. Well done.
Thanks, Dave! I firmly believe the path to mastery is filled with joy.
Doc, you’re easily becoming one of my favorite saxophonist and I wish i had this information back in high school. However the content you’ve been producing has been nothing short than amazing, you are an excellent musician which is a given but also a fantastic teacher which is hard to find one that can do both adequately. Thank you so much for you hard work and dedication to advancing the saxophone community. I personally am very grateful and will take advantage of this free gift you’re giving us and I will continue to push myself towards mastery
Thanks, Ditty. I really appreciate the kind words. Happy practicing my friend!
Im a freshmen and to be honest you've helped me learn how and what to practice to improve so much!
Just ordered mine, Dr Wally! Congratulations to you and the WCW team! Y’all rock!!!
Awesome! I know you’ll love it, Jose! You rock, my friend!
Ordered. Bringing a bit of West Coast cool to South East England. Thank you Dr Wally and WCW.
Awesome, and thanks Gary! I know you're gonna love it! (I just finished practicing 2 hours on mine this morning). Still absolutely in love with it.
The quality of the video is truly amazing, and the mouthpiece is beautiful. I'm happy to see you so happy playing on a mouthpiece that is not that expensive. Thanks for this great content!
Thanks Joel! It's really important to me to play what I recommend. When students kept asking me what they should get, I couldn't tell them to hunt for a $300+ vintage piece. Luckily, when I reached out to Windy City Woodwinds to solve the problem, they totally got it and nailed the design!
Congratulations Dr Wally and guys from Windy City! It looks and sounds beautiful! It's refreshing to see someone offering such an amazing mouthpiece at an affordable price. It's a rarity in today's world 🙏🏼
Thanks Paula, it's been a loooong time dream come true for me! The fact that my students can get the same thing I play at a great price is just gravy!
This is amazing... so cool. Thank you for sharing this with us all, Dr. Wallace!
Hey Emma! Thanks! Now go practice!!
The moment you started playing it I fell in love with the sound. Definitely putting it on my list of items to buy soon. Love WCW for the work they are doing.
Awwww, thanks! I'm in love with it!
Got my '56 today. Love it! Thanks for making a quality mouthpiece at an affordable price. I really appreciate how much you do for the saxophone community.
Thanks Blaine! (and thanks for your patience). It was, in a sense, an almost selfish endeavor: I wanted it!! The fact that my students could buy one for cheap was gravy on the vintage dish!
I've been following the progress of this mouthpiece over their Instagram account and you can definitively tell that they are working hard to get the highest quality possible! Great work there! I hope I can get one of those beauties and test the hell out of them!!!
I was a customer first, before exploring the collaboration. You’re absolutely right, they’re nailing it!
Classy! What else would we expect from Dr. W?!! Love some Art Pepper! Thank you for your dedication to sharing the love of our craft!
Thanks Karlton, much appreciated my friend!
This looks fantastic - great job Dr W!
Thanks Mark! I'm smitten. Hope all's well on your side of the pond!
Mine arrived this week. Only had time to test it for about 10 minutes so far but I've gotta say, I'm impressed! This thing will stay on my sax for a while
Wooooo! this makes me incredibly happy!
My '56 just arrived and it sounds & looks great. I'm going to enjoy many hours of playing this little treasure. Thank you WCW and Dr Wally.
Yes!! this makes me so happy, Gary! I want to hear a clip if you get a chance - DM me on instagram, or tag, or email!
Did it come with teeth pads and a ring ligature or do you buy those separately
I only recently came upon your channel, but I'm already appreciating your content. Thank you!
that makes me very happy, thanks Daniel!
Dr. Wally, I met up with a friend yesterday who just purchased one of these mouthpieces. He let me take it for a test drive and I must say, I was very blown away by the quality of this mouthpiece and the incredible flexibility of it. I too love the west coast sound, Art Pepper and Bud Shank have been big influences on my playing. So this morning I ordered one of these mouthpieces for alto and I’m excited. Been playing on a long shank soloist the last couple of years and an old Meyer before that. This mouthpiece blows them out of the water! Cheers!
Hello Dr. Wally, after a 7 weeks odyssey from the US to Germany via Qatar and Greece I now have it finally in my hands. I am playing a Vandoren V16 A7 with 2.5 reeds and I was very happy with this setup. I ordered the WCW without really needing it nor with too high expectations. But as a fan of your videos (which I consider as remarkable treasures - I appreciate your sense of humor) you made me curious. And I am more than surprised. I can confirm what most of the other customers said, it plays well in all registers. But what it makes it even more interesting is a much better dynamic play. Even with soft and quiet blowing, I can produce a much clearer and stable tone compared to my other mouthpieces. I am still a beginner, a pro would maybe not consider this as important, but for me it increases joy and motivation a lot. Thanks for all. I can’t wait to showing it to my teacher. Regards, Norbert
That's fantastic Norbert!! What you're experiencing, even as a beginner is the "ease" of play. The design balances resistance. Far too many modern pieces aim for "free blowing" which just doesn't feel great to me (preferring warmer, mid-century jazz). I'm so glad you're pleased! It's not a beginner, or pro mouthpiece - it's just a great mouthpiece. I'm so thrilled we were able to create something at such a great price. Thanks for the update, and happy practicing!
I played on Lakey 5*3 which has the same opening of 0.080”. Both have basically the same resistance and are easy to play with a 2.5 reed. The tone is darker and more refined on wcw! It’s a very nice sound.
I received my 56 Mk II yesterday, and played it tonight for the first time. So far I'm loving it. You were on the money about the reed strength . . . a Boston Sax Shop 3 gave me a dry martini, and a Hemke 2.5 gave me something with a bit more punch. I'm not crazy about the WCW ring ligature (it doesn't slide down far enough past the shoulder for my preference), but a Vandoren MO worked well. Looking forward to getting to know it better!
Hey, that's fantastic! I don't really care for ring ligatures, but we wanted to include one just incase this is someone's first mouthpiece and did not have one. Glad you're loving it, I'm still loving mine as well!
Dr Wallace I bought this mouthpiece and got it Saturday. I just had a chance to play it today! It is my favorite mouthpiece by far. It checks all the boxes that I was looking for. I love the ease of play and the beautiful sound. It seals very well and passes the pop test with ease.
Yay!! This makes me very happy! Hope you continue to love it as muc as I do!
After hearing your mission statement regarding this mpc, I’m really really keen on purchasing one to support the cause. And given the price to performance/quality ratio, this mouthpiece is unbeatable. Amazing product u got here Doc. I’ll be getting one for Christmas 👍🏼
Fantastic, I hope you love it. (I'm still in love with mine)!
I've received my 56 mouthpiece and it is fantastic. I'm use to playing bright high powered mouthpiece, but I usually sacrifice control and intonation. The 56 is a very professional playing and sounding mouthpiece that sits perfect under a trumpet in a horn stack.
FAntastic! This makes me VERY happy to hear!
Wow. I know I'm a year or so behind, but can I just say this is *amazing*. Thank you so much for the work you're doing, not just with the amazing videos, but now a *really* sweet mouthpiece too.
Plus it's always great to see more color options. The white really stands out, but it looks kind of sophisticated at the same time 😍
Now, before I have to go wait in the car... I truly love this mouthpiece, great value for the cost! It sounds amazing on my alto; but, it sounds FANTASTIC on my C-Melody.
Hey Dr Wally! My “56” arrived this morning - it is quite excellent. I’ve just finished playing for nearly 2 hours - normally my lip gives out after about 45 minutes. It really is quite amazing. I was a little unsure about ordering one from here in England because, as a relative beginner, my mouthpieces have a much smaller tip opening. However, it plays beautifully from top to bottom and much better than any of my other pieces - including a few vintage Brilharts. And such a lovely tone too. I’ve been following you for about a month now - thank you so much for all your great lessons, inspiration and guidance.
WhhhoooooooHHHHOooo!!! this makes me so happy! Would LOVE to hear a clip of you playing it!
@@drwallysax Thanks very much. Daunting 😯 but yea! I can do that - I think! 😊 Where should I send it? It's still amazes me that it plays better and easier than my other mouthpieces.
@@kentyler123 Wally @ thesaxophoneacademy.com. (without the spaces, obviously). Looking toward to it!
Got mine in the mail today, it sings! Exactly what I was expecting and looking for, very warm and mellow but its can project surprisingly far when pushed. It would work very well in either a combo setting or playing lead alto.
Yes!!! I'm glad you like it! Obviously I love it, or would never put my name on it (figuratively). I had a feeling the Academy peeps would love it as well. As you noted, I love the versatility, you can get the west coast cool sound, but with a slightly softer reed, lead a big band section no problem. And all for under $100, I'm proud of this lil' mouthpiece! Thanks for the great feedback, makes my day, Evan!
you sound wonderful with this setup!
Thanks Andreas! It really is my favorite mouthpiece. If I was going to sell it, I had to make sure it was what I was playing on 100% of the time - in the studio, everywhere! Appreciate the kind words my friend!
Great video Dr. You were really convincing...so, my godson, who lives in USA is bringing me one when he comes to Greece in June. Can't wait!
I hope you love it! (I sure do love mine)
I learn so much from these videos and get good laughs along the way!
That makes me really happy, thanks LJ. Happy practicing my friend!
Pre-ordered! Looking forward to this mouthpiece. I think I have a vintage soul. Time will tell.
Awesome, and thanks for supporting the Academy! I know you'll love it - I'm crazy over mine! Vintage souls UNITE, Scott! (we need an old-time secret handshake).
I've finally found my ideal matching reed for my original 56. The power I can generate is quite incredible. Equally, there's a delicacy too.
Dr. Wally, love your UA-cam channel, your master class and informative videos have helped me a lot.. I've already ordered my 56/0.80 Alto MP. If I like it, I'll ordered the other three... baritone, tenor, and soprano... What's attractive in these promotions, is the price. I'm very leery about what these modern mouth piece are going for. I've been playing the sax for over 50 years, on and off and remember paying under a hundred dollars for a good mouth piece in the 70's, now... 200.00 and better... some vintage going for over 500.00, and you don't even know if it's going to be right for you, and sold most of the time as a no return, so you'll need to pass it on, and sometimes at a lost... This mission Dr. Wally is on, could help many of the beginners and seasoned players like me, who don't gig anymore, who are living on a fix or budgeted income, and now will be able to afford a good playing, free blowing mouth piece at a price that will not break the bank... My concern now, is what opening to chose for my Mark VI Tenor MP, my baritone and Soprano... Yep, I play them all... and it ran me over 1,600.00 from another brand, with these MP's it's be under 500.00. Well, we'll see how well the MP will perform for me... Thanks Dr. Wally... Now to wait for the 2-3 weeks to receive the MP's.
Phil, glad you made your order. I think you will like the work we did with these mouthpieces. We also will likely have these in the mail within the next 7 days, so you can cut that delivery time in half! :). Dave (WCW Staff)
Ordered mine in February. Just got an email saying it should be here soon and can hardly wait. And hoping the tenor version is available soon.
Keep me updated - I know you're going to love it!
Just wanted to send a big Thank You Dr. Wally!!! I just received my 56 in the mail late last week, and couldn't be happier. I love the tone, which seems to easily play a mix of both louder/brighter, or darker/mellow depending on reed, breath and embouchure. But my favorite thing aside from the tone is that, I'm quite sure is due to the hand facing, that reeds that wouldn't seal/play well on my Claude Lakey sound fantastic on this piece, so I have a lot of experimenting to do. At this stage, all I'm hoping for is that the tenor version is coming sooner than later. :o)
Great videos. Thanks for sharing your passion. You are a fantastic player. Cheers.
Thank you kindly!
Pre ordered ! Dr Wally, i will always follow your advices !
I know you're going to love it Jean Luc! Have a great week my friend!
Got mine today and love it!!!!!!
Yes!!!!
I too love the "cool school" of playing and think it's great you've partnered with a company to produce a mouthpiece with a proper tip opening. I need another mouthpiece like a new hole in my head, however. But I'm tempted because the price is fantastic.
Ha! My wife found my "collection" when we moved a couple of years back. She was NOT amused.
@@drwallysax I can hear it now, "You can only play one at a time. Why don't you sell the ones you no longer use." 😉🤣
@@brianbillings6815 OK. Just be honest, is my wife leading a double life with you or is it her twin sister I never knew she had? 😉🤪😃
Wow ... What Great News !.. and...that Feb Blues (Int) is really a great etude . Im very impressed... and also love the..more Emotionally Restrained ? Aesthetic (of the Cool Jazz Era)
Man, I love the cool school. And that's a good description.
I already biught the first WCW alto mpc you showed (I took a .80 opening). I finally found the best sound on Vandoren Great Concert 3. I'll order this new mpc and I'm looking forward to try it !!! Thanks Doc !!
Awesome, thanks Paolo! It's a darker, warmer vibe than the standard jazz (which I like) - but this thing is my Valentine!
Hi Doc, I've just got my '56 and played it for a few hours: it is surprisingly good! It's easy to play, super volume control, easy on altissimo (high Bb at first shot, I mean the fourth Bb as hamonic). Lush on low register, brighter on the high side. I played it with a Vandoren ZZ n. 3.5 on my 1927 silver Chu Berry. A great mpc. Same level of my HR Meyer 8 and D'Addario Select Jazz n.7 (the 2 mpc I like and play the most). So, thank you !!!
@@paoloalbano4690 I'm thrilled you like it! Honestly, if I didn't love mine, I wouldn't recommend it! You got a Chu Berry!!!?
Yes, both alto and tenor... '27 and '28, both silver. There's nothing like those ones... at least for me ! I went through the 'vintage' desease 20 years ago and I finally sticked on old Chus..
Just ordered one for my 1956 saxophone. How cool is that. Can't wait.
Nice! What model horn?
@@drwallysax I'm too embarrassed to say. We have a saying 'all the gear and no idea'. Think that sums me up perfectly.
Mine is on order to the UK, excited 😊 . I have even promoted it on my sax Facebook community which I am a part of….hoping it doesn’t disappoint!!
If you don't love it, send it to me! I could always use another one ;)
Hi Dr. Wally! I spent the whole day yesterday looking between mouthpieces to buy. I looked at your reviews and other ones and was about to purchase before I decided to wait. And now, right on cue, you brought this amazing product. I'm preordering now and can't wait to try it! You're the best.
Ps If you're ever in Austin I'll be happy to buy you as many cups of coffee as you want.
I hope you love it! (I love mine). I will definitely take you up on the coffee once we're traveling again. I've always wanted to visit Austin!
@@drwallysax I can't wait for it to arrive! As for Austin, I'd recommend waiting for the snow to pass ... afterwards, Mozarts Cafe is a good place to start.
I've been meaning to get a decent affordable one and not sure which one to choose from. Thanks to you, Dr. Wally for making that possible and I am looking forward to one :)
I hope you love it!
Llegó mi boquilla 56 a España hace un mes. Es una boquilla fantástica y muy versátil, hermoso tono y mucha proyección. Muchas gracias por su recomendación.Saludos desde España.
¡Maravilloso! ¡Esto me hace increíblemente feliz de escuchar! Me encantaría escuchar o ver un clip tuyo reproduciéndolo. ¡Feliz practicando mi amigo!
Love your videos - Just Pre-Ordered mine.
Awesome, thanks my friend :)
I've no doubt you'll love it!
I just received my mouthpiece, so I thought I’d give my opinion…….WOW!!!!!!
I took it out the box, table was like glass, smooth and there were no imperfections. I put it on the horn and gave it a blow and I was AMAZED. The sound was incredible, full with a hint or dark (not at all bright or shrill). Plays great in all registers too.
I had to compare it next to my JJ DV NY (I appreciate one is metal and the other is not), but I have to say, it played better! £80 vs £415 and the WCW won hands down! I take my hat off to you, I was very sceptical buying a cheaper 3D printer mouthpiece but you proved me wrong, truly is one of the best mouthpieces I have played. Well done all of you 👏 This will be my no.1 mouthpiece going forward, credit you you all!! People in the UK 🇬🇧 need to play this mouthpiece
This makes me so incredibly happy, thanks for sharing Thomas! Obviously I feel the same, I've been playing mine nonstop since December (when it was in prototype)! Happy practicing, Thomas!
@@drwallysax Thank you all 👏
Wow, this is the perfect brilhart inspired herb geller and bud shank mouthpiece! Art pepper could have played this. I love the fact that it's got the .080" tip opening which is a perfect Meyer 7MM (.081"). Because this is hand faced, it's way better than other 3D printed mouthpieces. You are getting a classic bebop, cool school sound like Arnie Lawrence or Lee Konitz. You could even use this for incredible big band lead alto.
Absolutely, Grant! That was my goal. Man, so sad we lost Konitz last year (though he had a long marvelous life). It's got as much power as my Ebolin and Tonalin - but much more reed friendly. I'm so in love with the cool school, it's my greatest passion (outside family, of course) :)
@@drwallysax yes!!! please join my Facebook group called "Bebop Saxophone" and post this ad !!! I want the people to hear your playing. You got that great west coast tone!!! reminds me of supersax.....
@@grantkoeller8911 That's incredibly kind, Grant! Honestly, I have PTSD from Facebook sax-groups, they were really mean to me!
@@drwallysax yes. I know what you mean, On facebook everyone thinks of themselves as being the next trane, Bird, or brecker. It can get pretty egotistical.
@@grantkoeller8911 I help out WCW. Want me to put a more general post out there on your FB group about the partnership and could link this vid?
Sounds great Wally!!
Zac!!!! My drummer!!! Sononauts, GooooOooooo!!!
Very nice review. I have the Baritone mouthpiece and I love it
Just to be 100% transparent - this isn't a review! It's a partnership that that supports the Academy, so I can't claim it as an unbiased "review." I absolutely love the thing, but don't want anyone to be misled! Glad you like the Bari piece. I was a customer of WCW first, so felt confident in their quality and mission before reaching out about this project!
I just received the 56 alto Mk II in the mail today (.70 tip opening). I played it right away and... before I say anything else, a bit of context. I'm in my mid-50s and just picked up the saxophone about 9 months ago. After starting on a Yamaha 4C, I switched to a Vandoren AP3 mouthpiece and I've been using it for the last six months (playing about an hour a day). The AP3 is terrific, especially for a beginner, but it is definitely designed for classical playing. As much as I like the AP3, I'm at the point where I want to find a mouthpiece that will let me start me to explore a broader sound pallet and play with a bit more "oomph." I'm looking for a focused and somewhat dark sound but also want to be able to project when needed. At the same time, I need something that is easy for a newbie to play. Over the last few weeks, I've tried about 10 different mouthpieces. While they were all excellent products, none of them felt quite right. Many were too bright. Others were just too hard to play (even those in a size 5 tip opening). I was about to give up, but decided to give the 56 a try. It was literally the last one I was going to test drive. And now for the good news: I LOVE IT! It was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much for creating such an excellent mouthpiece--and one that is affordable. I look forward to many hours of playing on the Mk II and maybe one day giving the Select a try. 😁
Got my preorder in just in time! Can’t wait to see how it stacks up against my vintage 1940s Meyers Bros 4M.
Always in search of that Paul Desmond sound.
Meyer 4 is a VERY different mouthpiece, but I think you're going to love the 56! I have an alarming collection of mouthpieces, this thing is my favorite.
¡¡¡ that's an amazing price !!!! I think there's hardly anything that really plays under $100. (You should see my mpc collection - I think I could buy that Aston Martin for it 😳). Great insights into the 3D production process as well. As usual, great stuff! 👏👏👏
Ha! My wife found my "collection" when we moved....she was NOT amused. Thanks Kurt - I'm over the moon with this mouthpiece, really excited for my students to have access to the same thing I play!
My sounds is vintage super cool now!!!! 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻😁
I just got mine, use it with the included ring ligature, my usual plasticover #2 reeds .....this mouthpiece is FANATASTIC!
Yes!!! Ron, I'm so glad you like it, I'm still in love with mine!
@@drwallysax yessir! It’s not a big problem but I will say it doesn’t seem too keen for Altissimo, What do you think?
We are very happy you like it! Dave (WCW Staff)
@@ronrobbins2737 I've not noticed any difference in altissimo! It will never be as easy as a mouthpiece with a bit baffle, but my altissimo is just as easy as a Meyer or similar piece.
@@drwallysax Very interesting sir, thanks! I am definitely getting more and more used to this 56, And feeling more comfortable with it every day. Seems a big improvement over my recent BEECHLER experiment。
I just started my sax journey, and how you sound on the 4 strength reed in this video is how I want to sound
It's my best Desmond impression - but falls short of the master. This is a good way to chase the "cool school" sound.
I preordered 2 of them! With a very special engraving!!! 😎
Nice! I have no doubt you'll love them Leo!
@@drwallysax CAN.NOT.WAIT!!! 🥰
I'm in the club with you guys!!! 😉
Got my 56..gotta say..I like it.. I’m going to stick with it for a bit.. Thinking it will be my go to mouthpiece.. Now all I need is a stylish suit/ tie.. and then the forehead hair “V” thing...
It's called a "widow's peak" you magnificent beast. You can borrow mine. I'm so glad you like it! I had a very fun chat with the WCW boys, and we've got some COOOOOL things planned for this line of mouthpiece. I'm in love with mine!
Just ordered mine. Can’t wait! Thanks
Awesome! I know you'll love it Gustao - I've been over the moon with mine!
@@drwallysax well got it today and love it.
@@gusmarrero Fantastic!!! Was just practicing on mine. Glad you love it, and thanks for supporting the Academy!
Just placed my order Doc! Thanks!
Thanks for your support, Edward! I know you’ll love it!
Really love your videos. I ordered this mouthpiece. Can’t wait to try it. I was curious about what you thought about a selmer soloist? I am looking to try a “classical” mouthpiece and maybe something that can do both since Kenny Garrett plays one. I’m used to a .80 tip opening like the 56. Should I try the selmer soloist F?
Man I could not resist after hearing your fantastic smooth tone. I have the 56 ordered. Can you now find a way I can skip the years of practice its going to take me to sound as good :) Thanks for another great video.
Ha! I'm developing technique hypnosis tapes, simply play them at night while you sleep and you'll magically lose $19.95!
@@drwallysax the frightening part is I would give that a go :))
This is great! And it's a looker. 😍
Thanks my friend, I couldn't be more proud of what we developed!
SO tempted to try this - I feel like I lost some brightness when I went from my Meyer 5M to an Otto Link 6*...maybe a "bump" up to this opening, with the walled off chamber could bring that focus back. Regardless - nice looking piece!
I know what you mean - the Link has a beautiful core - but missing some color at the edges? I like the Meyer - but this just "feels" right to me. Happy practicing my friend!
Dr. Wally: You may be wondering, "why is this less than half the price of other 3D mouthpieces?" (Incredulous but gentlemanly look by Dr. Wally)
That LOOK! It spoke volumes and I even like some of the pieces that other manufacturer makes!
Ha! I’ve never played on one of the “other” and I have no guilt about it. No way I’m paying $200 for low resolution unfinished ABS plastic!
@@drwallysax bro... You got bars
@@Trizno bars of what?
@@drwallysax, In my culture bars means verses of literary content from the top of one's head.
Ordered a couple, they look and sound great 👍
Oh man, that's awesome Andy - I have no doubt you'll love it! I was TERRIFIED sticking the sharp metal calipers in my vintage Tonalin to get measurements. But after trying the last few prototypes - I DIDDN'T CARE! I like this better. Happy practicing my friend!
It looks like the 'other brand' 3-D mouthpiece I felt obliged to hang on to might now end up on eBay!
Dr Wally, this looks amazing and something I really want to pre-order. I've a feeling it'll sound great on my vintage alto.
I hope you love it! There's no way I'd put my name "on" it unless it were truly my favorite mouthpiece. The fact that its $90 is just a bonus. I mean, I won't be trading in my "Long Island Watch" for a Rolex any time soon - but I'm thrilled that my students can get the same great mouthpiece I play within most budgets!
What is impressive is the finish and smooth table. That's something totally lacking on the SYOS I bought. Also, the fact it has some weight.
Well, my 56 has arrived and I love it. Quality all the way. The weight and feel is exactly as you described in the video. I've not played it extensively yet but I'm impressed by its versatility. It can belt out serious sound whilst allowing very delicate tones too. Superb.
@@francistaylor5097 Fantastic! I'm glad you love it (I love mine too). Thanks for your support, and happy practicing Francis!
Looks just what I want but any plans to release a tenor version? Hope, hope!
We've got good stuff cooking my friend...stay tuned!
@@drwallysax I will indeed. And thank you for being such a saxophone teaching inspiration.
@@drwallysax Ooooh... A tenor piece. Where the real saxophone GAS attacks happen. :P
59’ I thought was Jazz’s seat at the big table. With ‘kinda Blue’. Irregardless, I’ve been shopping. Three other you tube sax teachers have their mouthpiece models out also. (Jay, Nigel, Scott) Your is the one I’m getting cause I see what goes into it.
Wait, Nigel St. Caire has a mouthpiece? '59 was an amazing year indeed. For alto tone - '56 was my favorite. Thanks for your support, George, I think you're gonna love the mouthpiece.
I bought one... what you guys waiting for... great vid Wally... chat soon. Ciao G
thanks G! Hope all is well on your side of the pond!
Love this Wally. I’m glad you finally have your own mouthpiece with a trusted company. I have one question, is it good at altissimo? Congrats again man👍🏽💪🏽
Thanks, Mario. I really appreciate that my friend!
It’s as good as any mouthpiece with a rollover baffle - very easy. I debated about doing a demo, because honestly, at this stage I can get altissimo out of a garden hose 🤷♂️
@@drwallysax hahaha😂😂. Love that man.
Sounds great! Looks really cool as well!
Any plans to make a tenor version of this mouthpiece?
I'm currently still playing on my first and only Yamaha 4C as I'm getting the basics of the instrument, however I've been thinking about my next possible mouthpiece more and more
cooking something up - stay tuned!
@@drwallysax :D
I really like it I will order thanks
I'm loving mine - which is a good thing, it's my signature mouthpiece, but it's been just a pleasure to play!
Great sound Dr Wally!
Is the tip opening (and the mouthpiece for that matter) suitable for players with only 6 months/about 125 hours of experience? (somebody compared it with Meyer 7mm.) Would Vandoren Java red unfiled 2.0 work on it?
I have to correct you on your Formula 1 statement btw, F1 cars are becoming more and more quiet.
Cannot wait to order!! What is your setup? What Sax / reeds do you play with Dr? Thanks
Using a Yamaha 875EX with a couple of different reeds (Boston Sax Shop 3.5 and 4 mostly)
As a tenor sax student for the past 6 years, I'm always on the lookout for a mouthpiece that will provide me with a warm Paul Desmond sound. Last week I received my WCW Concert Series, which I am really enjoying. My question is, in your opinion, is there much difference between the "56" and the "Concert Series". Wishing you continued success, especially with your Cool School video's
HUGE difference. The concert series is a classical piece with a very small tip opening. The 56 has a larger tip opening and vintage jazz chamber profile. Two completely different pieces!
@@drwallysax Can I place an order yet, if so what is the expected time line for delivery?
Sounds great! I have one of the original WCW mouthpieces from when you reviewed the blue one. What's your take on the differences between them?
The 56 is warmer and a bit more of the vintage vibe I adore. I like the boo-berry, but this (to my ear) has a fuller core. I'm obviously biased, it's made to my exact taste!
Sounds and looks great! Do you have plans for a tenor version too?
Stay tuned, my friend! Also, your user name is perfect-o! Cool School is the best school - stay tuned for cool school tenor news!
That "dry martini"sound, just like Paul Desmond!
You. You are my new best friend.
Very nice!
Thanks, Romi! Happy practicing my friend!
Ordered so fast. Only thing I'm not looking forward to is the wait. I've been playing a Boston Sax Shop 3 or Rigotti 3.5 on a Tonalin, but I haven't tried a 4. Maybe I oughta try once I get this, I really enjoyed your sound
Thanks, Dennis! Your kind words and confidence means a lot to me! I hope you love it - I'm absolutely over the moon with mine!
@@drwallysax do you also use a 4 with your tonalin? Maybe I'll try it in the meanwhile :)
@@dennischacko499 That's the funny thing, My Tonalin was not as reed friendly - too stiff and it got all stuffy. Try it though - could totally work on yours!
Got mine Monday. Played La Vie En Rose and I’ve Never Been In Love Before. My son said, “that mouthpiece sounds like Christmas”
Kris, this makes my heart happy! Thanks for supporting the Academy. I want to hear sound clips!
@@drwallysax I will try and get something to you on the weekend! It is a very different mouthpiece from all the others in my collection...I have a few! I am enjoying it quite a bit.
Dr. Wally I love most of your teachings. So thank you for all the info you share with the world. My question to you is that you are dressed so perfectly in all your you tube appearances. It's hard to find anything out of place. You are also funny but straight. Nothing wrong in that . Wondering if you have casual clothes as well. Sorry for being nosy but I just wonder. No need to even answer. 😊👍🏾🙏🏾🎷🎶
That is my casual suit. Seriously, I dress that part to create a sense of "occasion." I want those who can't afford lessons to feel like the instruction is something special, something I put my all into. I'm quite casual in my actual life - but for my students, I really want to make each interaction feel a bit special. Make sense?
@@drwallysax always. Like I said nothing wrong but it looks so perfect and then you teach so nice. Thank you for that. So cool.
Love this ❤️
Thanks, Myles! Happy practicing my friend!
sounds wonderful, how about the Tenor mouthpiece, is that similar quality and are any reviews available, which one would you choose for the kind of music you teach in the course?
No tenor model, yet. But soon I hope!
Hi Dr Wally, very nice mouthpiece, it's definitely going to be on my radar. I currently play a Vandoren AL4 (it's a little weird but I like it). I'm having trouble on my alto and I'm hoping you maybe can point me at the best place to fix it, I think it's my technique. On soprano, I can start on low Bb no issue, playing a 2.5 strength reed. On alto, regardless of the mouthpiece, even with a 2.0 reed I can barely hit low D and anything below that is iffy, B and Bb are basically impossible. I took the horn to get it looked at, and the tech made some adjustments and seemed to be able to play it well enough, but while it seemed better, I'm still struggling on the low end. It's almost as if I'm holding the octave key, but once I get above G everything seems happy again. Given all that, what am I doing wrong?
Hi John! Sorry you're having alto problems! I hate to say it, but without being able to test your horn myself or see you play in person, I can't accurately say what the issue is! Embouchure tension is the usual culprit - but if you're having no problem on soprano - I'm assuming you are doing ok on alto? I'm sorry to not be more help, but I don't want to give you bad information having not actually seen you or your instrument! Good luck and please do keep me posted!
Hi Dr. Wally, I love everything you are doing! How would this MP do with a vintage saxophone? I am playing a Buescher TruTone ca1926, and I’ve been told to stick to vintage pieces or very large chamber, to fit the geometry of the horn. Thank you for the accessibility of your instruction.
Hey P.J.! I can't say for certain, but I played on a 1924 TruTone for many years. Intonation is a bit different, but mine worked with the Brilhart style mouthpiece (that this is based off). Can't say for certain - it's been a good number of years since I've played a horn that old! Happy practicing my friend!
Thanks Doc, for 90 bucks I’ll try it.
@@PJBoyle I hope you LOVE it - I adore mine!
Terrific sound on all your videos. Where can I download your recordings from your group?
No recordings yet! But once we're pumped full of vaccine, the Sononatus are going to release a full length LP - full of cool-jazz nerdy goodness! (and thanks for asking, that was kind).
I already have what I considered a really great mouthpiece (a Phil-Tone refaced Ebolin); however, I'll give it a try. If it turns out not to be my cup of tea I'll try to make sure it finds a good home.
You'll find the character VERY similar to the Ebolin - was the inspiration for the design. I hope you love it! My main reason for switching (and approaching WCW) was 1. My Tonalin (and Ebolin) has lil' micro-cracks and is annoyingly fragile. 2. I couldn't send my students on an Ebolin/Tonalin goose chase! Hope you're well, JoAnn - it's been a while! Things good in your neck of the woods?
@@drwallysax We have similar sound concepts so I expect to enjoy it. As for the Ebolin/Tonalin goose chase I know all about that (Ha!) Did you ever try the ARB Great Neck pieces which are supposed to be based on Tonalin blanks? I've been shedding on Baritone recently. 180-200 bpm bebop licks are a challenge for me, but on baritone??? It turns out I'm working on a Alto/Baritone duet where the alto gets the melodic ballady part and the baritone is backing it with bebop inspired phrasing. Good times! Hey I see your subscriber base is growing. I'm very glad to see that.
@@drwallysax Just received my 56 today. It matched up pretty well with a Vandoren Blue box #3.0 reed. I'm loving it so far. It sounds nearly identical to my Brilhart Ebolin but it is more even across registers. The palm keys really sing and are quite full. I was pleasantly surprised.
It sounds good!
Thanks Rob!
@@drwallysax I'm pretty happy with my Otto Link HR #7, but this mouthpiece sounds good, is affordable, without the drawbacks of other 3D printed mpcs and is from my home-town, the Windy City (even though I haven't lived there for 50 years, it still has its attraction).
Damn -$105 to the UK, that's hard to pass up. I will take your word for it and order one. Playing Debussy on a 8* Florida Dukoff is too much like hard work.
This is a pretty easy mouthpiece to play - super comfy for me.
This mouthpiece looking like it needs a home on my Saxophone.
I adore mine. I mean, it's my signature mouthpiece, so that's a good thing. Let me know if you try it!
Once I get my alto later this year I’ll get this mouthpiece. For the price and tone it’s a no-brainer.
In the meantime, anything in the works for us soprano players?
I know WCW has a soprano piece, but I haven't tried it yet! I honestly only play classical soprano....whilst wearing a bowtie...and drinking sparkling cider....on a unicycle....
great MP, i got one today and it is great with a nice warm tone :) I am not a big fan of the ring ligature that comes with it. I see you have something else, what is that?
Hey Johan! I use the Vandoren M/O - for now......
Hi doc! In your opinion would this mouthpiece work well with Plasticover reeds? I recently bought a white BEECHLER tonalex model that seems a little iffy quality wise. But the white color sure does make adjusting those dark reads easier!
I can't say for sure, BUT, Legere just sent me a huge box of synthetic reeds and I LOVE them. In fact, check out my last UA-cam video (on ii/Vs) - I was playing on Legere reeds on that video!
WCW offers clarinet mouthpieces too. I'm thinking of ordering more than the 56...😀
Clari-what now?
@@drwallysax wooden soprano sax
@@drwallysax Don't be downplaying Jimmy Hamilton's tone! LOL
I have a couple of Syos mouthpieces. I think they are similar in composition. The method of checking for a good seal on your reed by holding against palm and sucking the air out does not work on those. Does it work on this beautiful bone ‘56’ alto mouthpiece? Very tempting... and I don’t even own an alto yet!!
I'd never play a mouthpiece that didn't pass the "pop" test. The 56 will seal a reed beautifully.
Doc, just received my 56 in the mail today. I was so excited, but that was short lived.
The table has horizontal machine marks and it just won't seal. I've already sent an email to WCW with a photo.
I don't fault them, with the high demand they currently have, something is bound to slip through occasionally.
I'm going to personally make sure this is corrected. Would you please send me a message on my website? thesaxophoneacademy.com (contact form). Give me your best email address and I'll follow up with you personally. I'm texting the WCW team right now.
I know you've been waiting, and that's incredibly frustrating.
@@drwallysax I'll shoot you an email. Honestly though, I'm not upset at all. That team and the product you all came up with is well worth the wait, and it wasn't even due until the end of the month if not beginning in May.
We have been working with this client directly. This will be taken care of. WCW Staff.
Dr Wallace do you recommend the WCW range in general? I'm looking for a new mouthpiece for Tenor. Much love and appreciation.
In roughly three weeks you will have even more choices for Tenor. Hang tight, very good options incoming (Dave WCW Staff).
Hi Doc, I assume this is the original 56 version? If so, could we see a possible comparison betw this and the newer 56 MK II model sometime down the line?