Klarinet Archive - Posting 000247.txt from 1994/10

From: Jordan Selburn <jordan@-----.COM>
Subj: Mouthpieces "buy" the numbers
Date: Fri, 21 Oct 1994 13:00:31 -0400

Lew Bowling writes:

"I have a definate feeling that there are a lot of clarinetists (and, yes,
saxophonists too) out there who really don't know how to intelligently compare
the technical aspects of mouthpieces. I agree that, when it comes right down to
it, you need to try out several to find out what best fits your particular
physical structure and aesthetic ear. Wouldn't it be nice, though, to be able to
narrow down the horrendous number of possibilities you have to try out."

It sure would be nice, but . . .

If you do a first-level cut of mouthpieces strictly on the basis of tip-opening
and facing measurements, you might well eliminate the best options. Case in
point: I recently tried some mouthpieces from Peter Eaton. After telling him
that I wanted to try a closed-tip, long-faced model (that's what I've always
liked), he asked what sort of sound I preferred. Based on this, he sent a
selection of 4 different ones he thought might work. I wound up buying a
mouthpiece that, had I ordered one (or several) based on measurements alone,
would never have been considered for even an initial trial.

So while it's a lot of work and hassle, nothing beats trying a broad selection
of mouthpieces - even if you eliminate a vast majority after just a minute or
two. What's a little time spent in the buying process compared to the years
you'll enjoy the mouthpiece?

Jordan
jordan@-----.com