A mute is an object that is fitted to the end of a brass instrument to change the instrument’s sound and tone. Mutes can be made from many materials but aluminum, brass, and copper are common. A mute works by changing the shape of the instrument and absorbing its acoustic vibrations. This causes the instrument to produce a sharp, damp sound. Mutes are often used in jazz music but sometimes they are called for in other compositions as well.

Question

A mute is an object that is fitted to the end of a brass instrument to change the instrument’s sound and tone. Mutes can be made from many materials but aluminum, brass, and copper are common. A mute works by changing the shape of the instrument and absorbing its acoustic vibrations. This causes the instrument to produce a sharp, damp sound. Mutes are often used in jazz music but sometimes they are called for in other compositions as well.

Responses

Problem and Solution

Compare and Contrast

Chronological

Cause and Effect

Sequence

Answer 1

Problem and Solution:

Problem: The brass instrument's sound is too bright for the desired musical piece.
Solution: Use a mute to change the instrument's tone to a sharper, damp sound.

Compare and Contrast:

Comparison: Mutes are made of materials such as aluminum, brass, and copper.
Contrast: Mutes can change the shape and absorb acoustic vibrations to alter the instrument's sound.

Chronological:

First, the mute is fitted to the end of the brass instrument.
Next, the mute changes the shape of the instrument and absorbs acoustic vibrations.
Finally, the instrument produces a sharp, damp sound.

Cause and Effect:

Cause: Mutes are fitted to the end of brass instruments.
Effect: The instrument's sound and tone are changed to produce a sharp, damp sound.

Sequence:

1. Select the appropriate mute for the brass instrument.
2. Fit the mute to the end of the instrument.
3. Play the instrument to hear the changed sound and tone.