Klarinet Archive - Posting 000795.txt from 1995/05

From: Fred Cicetti <cicetti@-----.COM>
Subj: Crystal Clear?
Date: Sun, 28 May 1995 10:30:10 -0400

I've read all the KLARINET logs and haven't found a serious analysis that
answers my questions about crystal mouthpieces.

Some of the opinions expressed by members of this list include the following:

1. Crystal mouthpieces are brighter.

2. Crystal mouthpieces are darker.

3. Crystal mouthpieces chip easily and shatter if you drop them.

4. Crystal mouthpieces are only suitable for glass clarinets.

5. Crystal mouthpieces just sound a little different, but aren't any
better than hard rubber.

6. Crystal mouthpieces aren't very popular among professionals.

7. Crystal mouthpieces make great door stops.

In general, crystal mouthpieces don't seem to be taken very seriously.
Then why are they made?

I play a hard rubber Vandoren. I tried a crystal mouthpiece once that
belonged to a friend, a professional. He made me try an experiment with
it. I took a soft Rico reed that was guaranteed to buzz on my mouthpiece.
When I played the reed on his crystal mouthpiece, the buzz disappeared.
I've been intrigued ever since.

I'm considering buying one even though I know they are fragile. I need
serious advice--the kind Dan Leeson donates to the list. Anybody out
there knowledgeable on this subject? Also, anyone ever use the Pete
Fountain crystal? What's your view on this one?

cicetti@-----.com