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Re: Beware the Conch, my son...

Posted: Fri May 20, 2016 6:42 pm
by Donn
Maybe you're supposed to bring your own mouthpiece?

Re: Beware the Conch, my son...

Posted: Fri May 20, 2016 8:02 pm
by David Richoux
There are quite a few Youtube instructional videos on making and finishing a conch horn - lots of good advice.

The one I bought on Kauai was pre-drilled and pretty easy on my lips.

Re: Beware the Conch, my son...

Posted: Sat May 21, 2016 1:03 pm
by Michael Bush
Can it be smoothed or rounded a bit with some sandpaper?

I have one my grandparents gave me when I was a child. The "mouthpiece" is about the size of a trumpet mouthpiece. I don't really have chops for it, but it feels fine. With a found natural object like this there is going to be a lot of variation. So if this one can't be made to feel better, maybe put out feelers to see if you can find another one?

Re: Beware the Conch, my son...

Posted: Sun May 22, 2016 2:20 am
by David Richoux
Michael Bush wrote:Can it be smoothed or rounded a bit with some sandpaper?

I have one my grandparents gave me when I was a child. The "mouthpiece" is about the size of a trumpet mouthpiece. I don't really have chops for it, but it feels fine. With a found natural object like this there is going to be a lot of variation. So if this one can't be made to feel better, maybe put out feelers to see if you can find another one?
Yes - they are quite hard, so a combination of file and metal quality sandpaper (usually black or red colored) can be used to smooth the surface and edges of the mouth opening. Check Youtube for several tutorials on how to make them.

Re: Beware the Conch, my son...

Posted: Fri Jun 17, 2016 2:56 am
by eniwatzuba
If you ever have to play it again, the solution is beeswax. You can get it at a hardware store. Melt it, shape it around the sawed opening. If it is a rented instrument, you can pull it off when you are ready to return it. The wax comes off easier if it is cold.