Klarinet Archive - Posting 000876.txt from 1998/02

From: Matthew Hanson <mchanson@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Contra Bass Clarinet tips
Date: Tue, 24 Feb 1998 14:38:59 -0500

Dear Clark Fobes,

You recently wrote to the Klarinet listserv about Selmer and Leblanc
contra mouthpieces not being interchangable.
I am very aware of the different bore sizes between the various Selmer
and Leblanc contras and my question to you is: Were you referring to
Selmer and Leblanc Eb contras?
I ask this because (as you know) they are not compatable.
What I am wondering IS if the Leblanc mouthpieces are interchangable
with Selmer Bb contra clarinets.
Since Leblanc uses the same bore size and mouthpiece for their Eb and Bb
contras I'm wondering just how a Selmer Bb mouthpiece would work on my
older satin silver Leblanc Bb contra.
I've played both the Selmer and Leblanc Bb contras quite a bit but never
with them together to compare. They are in fact SO different.
I still don't understand the HUGE bore of the Selmer Rosewood Bb contra.
I own two older Leblanc Paris contra mouthpieces and they are VERY
different within themselves, even in appearance. One was the original
mouthpiece with my contra, #571. My Woodwind Company mpc is of lesser
quality, but DOES provide a decent attack as opposed to the Leblanc
Paris ones.
I'm looking for a nice "round" sound without a lot of edginess and
reediness. With risking projection, I'm willing to sacrifice it for my
desired sound. I'm wanting that round sound without a lot of resistance.
I may need to send a few mouthpieces to you soon so you can look at them
and help me decide which would be the best for you to reface in regard
to my desired tone.
thanks for your time,
Matthew Hanson
Houston, TX