Klarinet Archive - Posting 000155.txt from 1994/12

From: Michael J Doyle <md6q+@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Practice Reeds
Date: Sat, 10 Dec 1994 15:50:42 -0500

Excerpts from klarinet: 10-Dec-94 Practice Reeds by Christopher Avery u=MACH
> drawn is that there should be no such thing. I find it difficult to
> practice properly unless I know what I'm going to sound like "for real".
> It is very difficult to work on articulation and sound especially when
I agree that Christopher's argument was very clearly presented, but
I will disagree with on of his points.
I agree with the fact that you need to have a "useable" reed for
your practice sessions, however it need not be the "one." Buy reeds in
bulk(5 or more boxes at a time will usually get you a price break), that
way you can start to get an idea of the _type_ of reeds you like,(thick,
strong, thin, hard, soft, etc.). Also, you can save up to $10 per box
through mail order places.
Then, just go through a few boxes and find reeds that seem like they
might work. Practice on these reeds, for the practice will "break them
in," and help you get an idea of what might work for you in the future.
This is the process I have started for myself, I am a first year at
Carnegie Mellon University, and I have found that I have been more
"tolerant" of reeds, and I know better "what I like." I think it may
help you a bit. If not, listen carefully to the other players on this
list, they are some really excellent players!

-mike

Ps. If you want to sacrifice animals, double reed players work well!!!
(joke, joke, joke!)