Klarinet Archive - Posting 000768.txt from 1999/12

From: "Patricia Smith" <david-patty@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Re: Legere reeds.
Date: Wed, 22 Dec 1999 18:16:49 -0500

Richard makes many good points regarding the usefulness of a good synthetic
reed for students. Let's not forget one other really good point in its
favor - one synthetic reed that will last for a really long time, is much
less expensive than having to buy cane reeds which will probably only last a
few weeks (or less in the hands of most beginners). For a lot of parents,
such a marvel of technology is a godsend (I remember my mother saying, "Oh
no, you're not out of reeds again?" about once a month on schedule).
And, if it is true, as those of you who have tried them say here on the
list, that they sound good, then what's not to love as a teacher? I usually
do not start my students on reed work until they are about 2 years along or
so. We will become familiar with the basics for the first two years, but I
find that most of them just don't have the coordination or the patience for
the fine motor work of sanding, etc. Sometimes, if a student is using a
hard enough reed that it warrants learning to adjust some, I will have them
use an emery board, ultra fine sand paper or rush. But, on the whole, I
would just as soon have first, second and even third year students
concentrate on sound and coordination - how to hold the instrument
correctly - and not have to worry about reeds as well. It is agony to have
to continually correct improper hand position with every single student I
see. Just my $.02

Patty Smith
(Who wishes they had had Legeres when she was a beginner)

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