Brass band players know only too well that their facial musculature, teeth and lips have great influence on their performance and development of their careers. This topic was the specialism of dentist Maurice Porter, who was also a gifted amateur musician, whose work during the 1950’s and 60’s and until his death in 1986 was pivotal in developing an understanding of the issues and treatments for the Embouchure.
His work is equally relevant today to brass instrument players and to promote this the British Dental Association is currently holding an exhibition of his life and work. The Exhibition is open to visitors on Wednesdays until 1 November 2023 from 11am - 3pm, at their HQ in Wimpole Street, London. Phoning ahead is encouraged, as the exhibition is also by appointment only
Highlights on display at the Exhibition include performance dentures and other temporary devices, specifically made to be worn when playing instruments, and 3D models and detailed drawings of the facial muscles involved in playing different instruments.
Of long-term benefit to our Members, and readers, a British Dental Association website has been created to provide an on-line resource for all musicians and dentists. This includes copies of all of Maurice Porter’s published papers, which are instrument specific, recent contributions from dentists and performers and content from the exhibition. The website is still being developed but is already accessible.