Klarinet Archive - Posting 000640.txt from 1997/08

From: Bill Hausmann <bhausman@-----.com>
Subj: Re:
Date: Sat, 16 Aug 1997 13:04:11 -0400

At 11:05 AM 8/16/97 -0400, you wrote:
>Well Mr. Hausmann, I knew about the "Dark" sound being a hot issue.
>Therefore, I used the term only when I could think of no single word to
>sum-up what I wanted to say. I made a switch about a year or so ago from
>the Vand. B-45, to the 5RVL. I thought it made my sound clearer, and yes
>"Darker". Since then my I have matured in my playing, and I have never
>thought to try the mouthpeice again. With your suggestion in mind I will
>begin to experiment with my mouthpeices to see witch is the better for
>me. Do you have any recomendations for the type of ligature? Thanks for
>the comments.
>Matt Cullen
>
I have been using a Rovner myself on the C85, which seems to tame it's
tendency toward shrillness in the upper part of the range (makes it
"darker?"). Before I got it, I was a Bonade fan. I've used the Luyben,
too, but I've never trusted it. I have always been afraid it will break or
the threads will strip when I tighten the screws (It has never happened
yet). Also, NEVER try to use a Luyben on a crystal mouthpiece -- no grip!
With the exception of the cloth/rubber/leather types, I can't say I've
heard much difference between ligatures. And just like the arguments about
whether CDs or vinyl records sound better, it is for you to decide if any
difference you do hear is good or bad.

Same applies to the mouthpiece. I find it best to find one that responds
easily and freely and produces a good volume of sound. If you are
straining to get the notes out at all, you have no energy left to work on
tone. And don't get hung up on getting the most expensive, custom-made
job. One of my personal favorites is a plastic Goldentone! Take your time
with each one. And note that a reed which works great on one mouthpiece
may be worthless on another! Have fun. Hope I've helped.

Bill Hausmann bhausman@-----.com
451 Old Orchard Drive http://www.concentric.net/~bhausman
Essexville, MI 48732 http://members.wbs.net/homepages/z/o/o/zoot14.html

If you have to mic a saxophone, the rest of the band is too loud.