Klarinet Archive - Posting 000609.txt from 1995/05

From: Christopher G Zello <czello@-----.EDU>
Subj: Mouthpieces--really
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 03:24:35 -0400

I have a question regarding the maker's use of their own mouthpiece.

Let's just suppose that John Doe plays the clarinet and makes a
mouthpiece, and stamps his name on it. Mr. Doe becomes popular for his
great sound, and becomes known internationally as a great clarinetist.

Other clarinet players decide they want to sound like him, and want to
buy his mouthpieces, figuring that is one element of many in his
success.

My question is. . .does Mr. Doe really play on the same mouthpiece which
comes out of the factory which is commercially available to everyone else
in the world?

To be more specific. . .if I were to buy a Gigliotti mouthpiece, am I
really playing on a mouthpiece which Gigliotti himself would toot on and
say "yes, I would play on this mouthpiece; it is comparable to the one I
play in the Philadelphia Orchestra?" I do not intend to single out
Gigliotti, I could have used any clarinet player in an orchestra spot or
with a career who sells a mouthpiece with their name stamped on it.

After seeing numerous messages on the list for mouthpiece suggestions, I
cannot wonder if these players _really_ play on the same commercial
mouthpieces which the public has at their disposal? Comments. . .

I just know how easy it is to mail off a mouthpiece to Everett Mateson,
Tom Ridenour, Clark Fobes, etc. for a refacing or "touch up." And
basically a mouthpiece blank stamped with some name could be just about
anything, or am I mistaken?

It will take me about a week before I can read any responses on this. . .

Christopher Zello
czello@-----.edu