Klarinet Archive - Posting 000803.txt from 1997/09

From: "Edwin V. Lacy" <el2@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: Zonda
Date: Tue, 16 Sep 1997 12:13:37 -0400

On Tue, 16 Sep 1997 SusiPontow@-----.com wrote:

> Wow, I didn't know Zonda had reeds for alto sax too. Do you or anyone
> else on this list use them for alto sax?

I use Zonda reeds for both clarinet and alto sax, and have also had the
opportunity to play on prototypes of the tenor sax reeds, which should be
out very soon. These are the most consistent reeds I have ever played.
The cut is somewhat similar to the Van Doren cut, the quality of the cane
is excellent, and thus far, I have never found a Zonda reed which was
totally unplayable. Normally, in a box of 5, I find four which are of
excellent vibratory characteristics, similar to each other, and of
consistent strength. On a cost-per-unit basis, they are a little more
expensive than some other brands, but given the fact that such a high
percentage are usable, the actual cost per reed may be less.

The only criticism of the Zonda reeds I have ever heard is that some
people apparently feel that while they play very well right out of the
box, they may not last as long as some other reeds. I haven't played them
long enough to determine whether that is true for me. But, as they seem
to me to be of excellent quality, if they wear out sooner, I would prefer
to use them, even if for a shorter time.

While I was a member of the advisory group for the Zonda saxophone reeds,
let me emphasize that I have no commercial interest in Zonda reeds, but am
merely stating my opinion of them.

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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