Klarinet Archive - Posting 000421.txt from 1997/09

From: "Edwin V. Lacy" <el2@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: HS* mouthpieces
Date: Tue, 9 Sep 1997 00:05:34 -0400

On Mon, 8 Sep 1997, Bill Hausmann wrote:

> All of our student-line plastic and wood Selmer clarinets are ordered
> from the factory with HS* mouthpieces.

I guess my comments on this will start another all-out war. Still, I am
rather sorry to hear this. In the part of the musical world where I live,
work and circulate, the enthusiasm for the HS* mouthpiece died out about
1959 or so. With its short lay and narrow tip opening, it not only
permits but requires a more resistant reed than the player might opt for
otherwise. This may at first seem to produce a more mature sound. But,
in my opinion, it tends to limit the amount of air the player can utilize,
to reduce the dynamic range, and generally promote a rather lifeless
sound.

I support the idea of giving students something better than the so-called
stock mouthpieces which come with student-line clarinets. But, when I was
teaching in public schools, I preferred that they have something a little
more middle-of-the-road.

OK, now let's hear from the HS* enthusiasts and supporters.

Ed Lacy
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Dr. Edwin Lacy University of Evansville
Professor of Music 1800 Lincoln Avenue
Evansville, IN 47722
el2@-----.edu (812)479-2754
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