What is a Harmon Mute?

A Harmon mute is a type of brass mute used mainly with the trumpet and trombone that produces a distinctive metallic, buzzing tone. The mute is inserted into the bell of the instrument and usually includes a removable stem in the center.

When the stem is inserted, the sound becomes thin, nasal, and focused, often associated with classic jazz recordings. When the stem is removed, the mute produces a more open but still metallic tone. Players can also move their hand in front of the mute to create the characteristic “wah-wah” effect.

The Harmon mute is widely used in jazz, big band, film scoring, and orchestral music to create expressive tonal color. It became especially famous through trumpet players like Miles Davis, who frequently used it to produce a soft, haunting sound.