Meaning of Plunger in Music
In the context of music, a **plunger** refers to a type of mute used by brass players, particularly trumpet and trombone players, to alter the sound of their instruments. The plunger mute is most commonly a regular bathroom plunger, held in the player's left hand and manipulated to cover and uncover the bell of the instrument. This technique creates a unique sound effect that is often associated with jazz music.
The plunger mute is not attached to the instrument in any way but is simply held by the player. It is typically used to produce a "wah-wah" sound, similar to the effect created by a Harmon mute. However, the plunger mute has a different tonal quality compared to the metal sound of the Harmon mute.
To use the plunger mute, the player covers and uncovers the bell of the instrument with the plunger, creating changes in the sound and resonance. The player can vary the intensity and speed of the plunger movements to achieve different expressive effects. The plunger mute is often used in jazz music, and notable trumpeters such as Miles Davis and Dizzy Gillespie have used it extensively in their performances.
It's worth noting that the plunger mute is not the only type of mute used in brass instruments. There are various other mutes, such as the Harmon mute, straight mute, cup mute, and bucket mute, each producing distinct tonal qualities and effects when applied to the instrument.
In summary, a plunger in music refers to a type of mute used by brass players, particularly trumpet and trombone players, to alter the sound of their instruments and create unique effects, often associated with jazz music.
1. A round mute used with brass instruments that is held in front of the bell of the instrument to dampen (muffle) the sound. The plunger is often moved back and forth, by the direction of the composition, in front of the bell to provide a range of sounds. This is a common effect in jazz and swing compositions. The notation for a plunger effect is shown by a plus (+) sign over the note to direct the performer to hold the plunger over the bell to dampen the sound and a (o) over the note where the plunger is to be removed from in front of the bell. The common plunger used is most often a standard rubber plunger (plumber's helper) from a hardware store (with the wooden handle removed).
2. The device used in a slide whistle to block the airflow in the slide allowing for the lengthening and shortening of the slide tubing.
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