Klarinet Archive - Posting 000260.txt from 1999/04

From: Bill Hausmann <bhausman@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Religion vs. Science
Date: Mon, 5 Apr 1999 13:10:36 -0400

At 08:15 AM 4/4/99 -0700, James <jparkin9@-----.net> wrote:
My experience with classic guitar and the
>difference in tone and volume produced by different materials, designs
>and bracing led me, again to the assumption, that the material mattered.
>Now I see that there are metal, in its forms, plastic, in its forms, and
>wood, in its forms that have been used to make clarinets. According to
>the religion of science (I base this assumption on the fact that it was
>scientists who bled George Washington to death) there is no difference
>in the production of tone based solely on the material. According to the
>religion of the artist (musician) there is a difference if only
>perceived by the musician (artist).

Since, as in the violin example earlier, the guitar body DOES vibrate,
functioning as the instrument's acoustical amplifier, the materials and
bracing do indeed significantly affect the sound.

> As a rank amateur I have a question. Just how should one, as
>ignorant as I currently am, go about purchasing an instrument that plays
>well, sounds good and will last, ack!, and God forbid, even fetch me
>some of my hard earned dollars back if I choose to sell it and purchase
>the latest and greatest when Science or Religion makes that available?
> I admit to a certain kind of musical schizophrenia, though I don't
>know that it's been scientifically quantified to date. I love the feel
>of a well crafted piece of wood. I delight to look at the deep hues and
>subtle grain variations. I fantasize that I play better when I am in
>love with my instrument. Do I? Well, I'm a beginner. Everything I play
>sounds just like what I am and where I am in the learning curve. On the
>other hand, I would like to be pragmatic and have a plastic instrument
>that wouldn't be able to crack, split, etc. Something that wouldn't be
>as temperamental as wood, or as musicians, for that matter.
>
Any well-known major manufacturer's instruments should cover your desire
for good sound and durability, as well as fine workmanship, beautiful wood,
and resale value. To hedge your bets on the pragmatic side, the Buffet
Greenline might be your answer.

Bill Hausmann bhausman@-----.com
451 Old Orchard Drive http://www.concentric.net/~bhausman
Essexville, MI 48732 http://members.wbs.net/homepages/z/o/o/zoot14.html
ICQ UIN 4862265

If you have to mic a saxophone, the rest of the band is too loud.

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