Klarinet Archive - Posting 000202.txt from 1994/10

From: NICK WINKLER <winkler@-----.US>
Subj: Help on Mouthpieces
Date: Thu, 20 Oct 1994 12:51:00 -0400

To: CASTILLO@-----.COM
Subject: Help on Mouthpieces

C>Can someone explain to me what the "facings" and "tip" openings are?
C>Also, what are ideal sizes of them? Whats the difference between the
C>sound or feel of an open (or closed) tip? What's the difference between
C>the different facings?

Chris, thank you for bringing up this subject. I hope some of the
technically-oriented members of this conference can shed some light on
this.

The Woodwind catalog lists a bewildering array of mouthpieces: 42
brands, 23 facings, and arcane descriptions such as "M08," or "5RV."
Prices range from $16 to $389.

Vandoren mouthpieces along are listed in 13 types and facings from 41
(5RV) to 57 (5JB). The B45 and B46 are both listed as having a 46
facing, whatever sense this may make.

Perhaps someone can suggest a reference describing for the nontechnical
the considerations involved in designing a mouthpiece, and the tradeoffs
involved. For example, who would want to use a 43 (medium close)
facing? Who would want to use a 47 (medium open) facing? Why? What is
the difference between a mouthpiece designed for chamber music and one
designed for jazz?

-Nick-

* QMPro 1.53 * The bigger the crowd, the more people show up.
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Views expressed by this individual are not necessarily
those of the Tulare County Office of Education
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