Klarinet Archive - Posting 001403.txt from 1997/10

From: Melanie Groundsell <M.Groundsell@-----.uk>
Subj: Re: Reed Strengths and types
Date: Fri, 31 Oct 1997 05:37:55 -0500

On Thu, 30 Oct 1997 Jrykorten@-----.com wrote:

> This is a very interesting thread that keeps coming up from listserv
> subscribers in Europe. They seem to use reeds that are a lot less strong than
> those we use. Are there any Europeans who are studying here in the states who
> can try a US student's setup to see if we are really playing harder setups?
> Or do we work our reeds down to an equivalent strength? Or are there any US
> subscribers over in Europe who can try a European clarinet player's setup and
> report back to us?

This would make a lot of sense. I have been horrified to hear that
clarinettists are playing on 4 or 4.5 strength reeds. My average is a
2.5. I find the 3 too hard for me. I have been playing the clarinet for
over 20 years now, and am a former teacher. Does the difference in
strength arise not from the reed, but rather from the mouthpiece. Would a
more open lay mean that a harder reed is being used in the states?
>
Melanie Groundsell
Reading University Library
Whiteknights
Reading
RG6 6AE
Tel : +44 (0)118 931 8778
Fax : +44 (0)118 931 6636