Klarinet Archive - Posting 000795.txt from 1997/08

From: Bill Hausmann <bhausman@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Crystal Mouthpieces
Date: Mon, 18 Aug 1997 23:09:19 -0400

At 03:15 PM 8/18/97 -0400, you wrote:
>I recently purchased a Vandoren crystal mouthpiece for my clarinet (no NOT
>the bass this time <g>) and was wondering what you all have to say about it.
> I did notice that it has quite a bit of resistance and I have to play it
>with regular cut Vandoren 2 1/2 reeds as opposed to the v12 4's I play on my
>Larry Combs LC1. When I get the right combination, it seems to hold notes
>steadier at the extreme ends of the dynamics. I think it produces a very
>full (I can't say dark can I) and round sound. I know Pete Fountain plays on
>a mouthpiece like that -- are all crystal mouthpieces intended for jazz use
>only? I sure do like the sound of mine though. I'm interested in your
>thoughts.
>
Design, not material, determines 99% of a mouthpiece's characteristics. I
have an O'Brien crystal, but I seldom play it. It's playing qualities are
similar to a Selmer HS*, requiring a relatively stiff reed (4 vs. my normal
3). It responds well in the upper registers, producing, not
coincidentally, a "clear" tone. But it has no bottom end at all! The
chalumeau is worthless on it. I'm quite sure Pete Fountain would not stand
for that! And crystal mouthpieces, due to the manner in which they are
made, are more variable from one to another than hard rubber ones. Try
before you buy.

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.