First time playing a gig with the Orlando Big Band. 3hr show, 3 sets. Great venue that's large, but not huge (we're expecting 300+ swing dancers). I'll be playing the solo in 'Jersey Bounce' that calls for a plunger for the ending solo portion. Since this is the first time for me (plunger solo), should I play it "half-open" to get enough volume? Is a no-stem Harmon an accepted substitute for the plunger?

Thanks in advance!

With no mic, if you use a plunger at all no one in the audience will hear it. You'll hear yourself and think it's perfect.

It's a solo. Do what works. You have options.

If no amplification, you might be better off just playing the open horn. I've had occasions, however, where there was just a mic for the sax. Use it.

Solotone/Cleartone mute has a great sound. I've used this one for pit work. Another option.

<YOUTUBE id="lSWCmIkX3BQ">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSWCmIkX3BQ</YOUTUBE>

<YOUTUBE id="_eF6pAu_jtM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eF6pAu_jtM</YOUTUBE>

Plunger with Pixie might have more highs and cut a bit.

<YOUTUBE id="0XWw9m1p2VM">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XWw9m1p2VM</YOUTUBE>

Trombone on Harmon has to be my least used mute ever.

Benny Goodman band.

<YOUTUBE id="27OK7p8DcGI">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27OK7p8DcGI</YOUTUBE>

Best on the band gig.

Thanks for all the advice. I ended up playing the 2nd part open. There were mics, but only along the front row with the saxes.