Klarinet Archive - Posting 000431.txt from 1997/05

From: Jrykorten@-----.com
Subj: Re: How do you pick a mthpc.
Date: Wed, 14 May 1997 14:58:21 -0400

Excellent! This letter is perhaps a better way of stating what I had tried to
ask before with different mouthpiece facings. I think Americans like closer
facings. I think they do because you have to use a harder reed, and the
system can handle more volume or presence with the stiffer combo (orchestra
vs chamber?).

I too enjoy the open mouthpiece softer reed combination. I believe that you
can more easily "dress" reeds (minor adjustments to get an OK reed to play
great) with an open facing. The gradation from hard to soft is quicker and
you can really see the flex.

I think you have to have experience adjusting reeds on a more open setup in
order to understand what to adjust on a stiff and close setup.

I also think the softer/open combo fills in more midupper partials that helps
me find the center of the tone. Again you can also do this on a closer facing
but it is more difficult in my opinion.

I switch between setups every few weeks. I'm trying to decide what I like. A
B45-13, or an M13 Lyre. (I' ve got a Hawins on order). But alas I do not
think there is one compelling reason to chose one over the other for reasons
other than taste. (And which reeds are playing!).

I'm eager to see what others say about this.

Jerry Korten
NYC

In a message dated 97-05-14 14:02:37 EDT, Jeroen writes:

<< Hello,
Maybe this is something interesting for you (all):
here in The Netherlands (Europe) we play at #2,5 reeds (Vandoren), or #3
with vandoren B40 (or B45 lyre) mouthpiece. I mean: we have the tendency to
play on much softer reeds than is avarage in the U.S. (of A.) I'm speaking
of the french clarinets. But, also the ones playing the Wurlitzers (with
German facing mouthpieces) they play 2,5 or at least #3 reeds vandoren
9white master/german cut).
Does someone have a theory why there is this difference in reed strength?
What are the consequences...

Happy days!

Jeroen T. Salm
The Netherlands
>>