Klarinet Archive - Posting 000563.txt from 1995/03

From: David Gilman <dagilman@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: reeds,reeds,reeds
Date: Thu, 23 Mar 1995 15:25:28 -0500

Nichol,
I know what you mean. I look at cones, xylems, profiles, ..., and I
also find that they won't always point you toward the best reeds. Some with
thick, even stocks; beautiful center cones; and perfect looking everything
else sound like air-raid sirens or strangled geese. Others with uneven
stocks and slight flaws in the cutting or spotty center structures will
sound and respond very nicely. One thing to keep in mind is that no two
people can agree exactly on how good a given reed is. Differences in
instruments, mouthpieces, ligatures, training, and human anatomy/physiology
make it impossible. My conclusion is that the only way to find a good reed
is to try it and monitor it as it breaks in over several weeks (in rotation
with others).
Good luck in your quest!

David Gilman

>Hello, I am a second year Clarinet student and right now I am really
>struggling with reeds. I'm not sure if there has been massive discussion
>on this topic (I am new to the net). I have read some books on reeds,
>looking at the heart etc. But I always seem to pick one of the lousiest
>reeds in the package. When I go to my lessons My instructor always says
>"it's too soft" It seems fine to me. I'm trying to test all my reeds getting
>used to soft ones and harder ones, but I still bring thoses soft reeds to
>lessons. Is there any more literature I could get a hold of that could help
>me? or any suggestions? they would be greatly appreciated.
>
>Nichol Kadler
>University of lethbridge
>
>