Klarinet Archive - Posting 000514.txt from 1998/03

From: "Karl Krelove" <kkrelove@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Vandoren V-12's
Date: Sun, 8 Mar 1998 14:19:20 -0500

-----Original Message-----
From: Lauren Peterson <lep@-----.net>
Date: Sunday, March 08, 1998 9:32 AM
Subject: Vandoren V-12's

>Hello all!
>
>Once again I find that I need your help and advice....
>
>My private instructor has put me on Vandoren V-12's, #3s, and they are
>way too stiff. I've tried switching to a softer reed, like Rico Royals,
>but they are too soft, and don't last as long. Can anyone offer me any
>help?
>
>~Lauren Peterson
>
Lauren,
I'll second the other advice that's been posted so far about trying a
half-strength lower instead of switching brands. There isn't anything
inherently "softer" about a Royal compared to a V12 - they all come in
graded strengths.
I'll also recommend very strongly that, in addition to (and probably
before) asking us here about something like this (and I'm NOT implying that
the question is unwelcome), you ask your private instructor. He made the
original recommendation and ought to have the quickest solution to any
resulting problems that come up. Lots of times, my students and I have to do
a little experimenting to find a good reed "fit." We do it together, which
is an important part of the relationship.

Karl Krelove