Klarinet Archive - Posting 000585.txt from 1999/02

From: GrabnerWG@-----.com
Subj: Re: [kl] Getting used to a bass clarinet
Date: Mon, 15 Feb 1999 21:17:47 -0500

In a message dated 2/15/99 12:04:43 PM Central Standard Time,
rgarrett@-----.edu writes:

<<
It would be great if everyone who plays bass clarinet and clarinet evenly
would post what they would do. Would make for a great dissertation!

I play on size 4 V12 Vandoren soprano, and size 4 Bass Clarinet. I have
found them to be excellent reeds. However, I only flatten the backs with
320 then 600 grit one time, and play them. I don't prepare them the same
as the soprano reeds - I tried, and it simply doesn't work for me. Also -
I balance a little bit on the top, but with the larger reed find that I am
not as picky about that for some reason. I do take wood off of the
shoulders of the bass reeds - that edge that is formed by the cut into the
wood - just smooth it or round it over so there is no edge. I have found
that drops pitch on some of the worse notes and increases flexibility of
the reed. >>

Damn, Roger, I could have written the same post, although I play 3 1/2 on
soprano as well as bass.

I make sure they are flat, and I also round the corners as Roger mentions. I
seldom do much else. Seems like the adjustment techniques that work on the
soprano just dont transfer much to bass clarinet reeds.

I have been known to even the tip with sandpaper, though not often. If the
reed is soft, and needs clipping, it probably isnt going to be much good in
the long run anyway.

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