Klarinet Archive - Posting 000379.txt from 1997/12

From: nancy buckman <znjb@-----.net>
Subj: Eb mouthpieces
Date: Tue, 9 Dec 1997 09:09:19 -0500

Dear fellow Klarinetters,

I am one of those who suffer from severe TMJ. I have been the route of
doctors and dentists and have been treated with everything from
appliances and orthodontics to radical surgeries that have even involved
breaking my jaw. My problem is this: I have some loose scar tissue
that has caused my mouth to become stuck closed (I have a 12 mm opening)
for the past 6 weeks. My mouth opens just far enough to permit the
placement of my mouthpiece, but at the moment I find that I need softer
reeds. I am currently using Vandoren 4.5 standard Eb reeds. If I use a
softer reed, my pitch drops noticeably flat in the upper notes. Any
suggestions about a mouthpiece that will play sharp on an E-fer in the
high range? I really need to reduce the embouchure force until this
problem resolves itself. I currently own Selmer HS*, Vandoren Crystal,
Charles Bay and David Hite mouthpieces. The Hite is the one I
frequent. All suggestions would be greatly appreciated. TIA.

Nancy