Klarinet Archive - Posting 000239.txt from 1994/12

From: Donald Oehler <dloehler@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: David Long's comments on reeds
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 1994 13:53:24 -0500

On Sun, 11 Dec 1994, Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.edu wrote:

> David, in responding to some request for reed information, suggests that
> both Van Doren and Glotin reeds shipped to the US are inferior to those
> purchased in the country of manufacture. He further asserts that one is
> permitted to go into the store, try out reeds, and buy only those that
> please one.
>
> I inquire of David if these statements are known to be true by him
> personally or did he hear these matters from a third party; i.e., it
> is a questionable practice if what David says is true.
>
> On the other hand, when I lived in France I often went to Van Doren on
> Rue LePic and bought reeds. Never once did I hear of this practice. I
> just got reeds like everyone else in a purple box that was sealed. I
> was given no opportunity to try any out, nor did I hear anyone trying
> out reeds, though this may have happened when I was not there.
>
> Bottom line is that my experience with Van Doren (experience of 20
> years ago, to be sure) does not agree with David's description. Frankly,
> I find it difficult to believe, but does anyone else on the board think
> or better KNOW that this is going on?
>
>
>
> ====================================
> Dan Leeson, Los Altos, California
> (leeson@-----.edu)
> ====================================
>
Well, my European friends are absolutely convinced that all the really
good reeds are shipped over here!

D. Oehler