Klarinet Archive - Posting 000456.txt from 1998/04

From: C E Field <CEField@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Re: DENTURES AND CLARINET PLAYING
Date: Fri, 10 Apr 1998 10:06:26 -0400

In a message dated 4/9/98 11:51:32 AM, you wrote:

<<I wonder if there is not some correlation between reeds and the techniques
needed to compensate for dentures. On an impulse yesterday I picked up a
box of No. 3 Vandoren V-12s (I've been using the Vandoren traditionals),
and spent 20 minutes earlier today sucking on the reed before attaching it
to the mouthpiece (Selmer HS*, Rovner Light ligature). I was astounded. I
got what I wanted: an "edgier" tone and much easier production, with much
more ease and better intonation on the high notes.>>

A sufficiently wet reed seems to be key to freer vibration. Like my oboist
friends, I now soak my clarinet reeds in a small container of water for about
15 minutes prior to rehearsing or playing. I use an old 35mm film container.
It fits inside my clarinet case and is rather unobrusive.

Cindy