Klarinet Archive - Posting 001046.txt from 1997/11

From: SCM9348@-----.com
Subj: Re: Making Reeds
Date: Fri, 28 Nov 1997 21:57:11 -0500

In a message dated 97-11-28 15:44:30 EST, you write:

<< what are the disadvantages and advantages of a crystal mouthpiece >>

I play on a Vandoren crystal with the A1 (Close) facing. There are quite a
few disadvantages to it, but I think the few advantages outway them in the
longrun. The good things about them are the tone and pitch center. I just
love the mellow sound of my crystal in the upper register. It smooths things
out, I never seem to squeak with it -- i know that's a reed issue, but the
mouthpiece seems like it would rather not respond rather than produce a
squeak at the front of strong attacked notes. It also seems to help keep the
overall tuning balanced (I suspect that is also helped because I play on an
Opus clarinet). There are some problems with it though. Like I said before,
it takes a huge amount of air and a strong embouchure to keep the sound
going. When I play on my crystal and then move to one of my other
mouthpieces, the sound is constricted and wavy because of the pressure
required on the crystal. I get tired faster with it. But of course, when
everything's working right, it sounds beautiful. I have that, a Larry Combs
LC1, Selmer C*, Gigliotti 2, Hite Premier, and a Woodwind K15. So, for once,
I can say I have a basis to make these opinions! :) Hope that helps you.

--Stephen C. Moore / scm9348@-----.com