Klarinet Archive - Posting 000896.txt from 1998/08

From: Ben Stutzman <benstutzman@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] major decision
Date: Sat, 29 Aug 1998 22:55:23 -0400

Jack:

My clarinet teacher is not at all interested in giving some store
business. She has a lot of experience with clarinets, and
apparently has found that the Yamaha and R-13 are best for students.
She recommended several stores where I could find these models.

In my lessons we have tried different reeds, mouthpieces and
ligatures. Even if I have the best combination for me, my horn still is
junk. I wish their WERE something I could do to make it sound better.
On the internet I found an article by Tom Ridenour about testing new
clarinets. I tried some of the tests on my clarinet. It didn't do very
well.

Although this probably doesn't mean much, I will be the first chair
clarinet this year in concert band. I go to a small school (approx. 15
clarinets) but I still think this is an accomplishment. I am very
interested in advancing in clarinet. I would like to continue,
(college?) but why decide that now? A good horn could possibly affect
this decision.

I am certainly in favor of used things. I always go for used over new.
But since I'm not an expert in this area, I think it is a lot less
hassle (only a little more $) to buy new. I know I am getting something
good from the start. If I buy the R-13, it will be around for a while.
Might as well start new.

Thanks to you and everyone else for your responses. Keep them coming!

__________
Ben Stutzman
benstutzman@-----.net

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