Klarinet Archive - Posting 000619.txt from 2000/11

From: StephanieDavis99@-----.com
Subj: Re: [kl] Beginer help please
Date: Sat, 18 Nov 2000 19:52:41 -0500

In a message dated 11/18/00 5:51:42 PM Central Standard Time,
tony-jones@-----.net writes:
> For example what type or make of clarinet to buy, what to look out for if I
> were to buy a second hand instrument, any advise about reeds and
> mouthpieces.

Tony,

I'm a fellow beginner, but have been a clarinet enthusiast for some time.
Here is a little bit of the little bit of what I know <grin>:

A good mouthpiece can't be emphasized enough. If it's pronounced "medium" as
far as tip opening and measurements, then it will be more or less like 200
strength photo film is to an amateur photographer: it's not necessarily the
best for specific situations, but it's more forgiving of mistakes in a wider
range and is very good for the amateur.

As far as reeds, something soft (1 1/2 strength) is good for a beginner but
it's not clean-sounding, so it won't be long before you will want to move up.

As for manufacturers, I recommend listening to professionals (from Pete
Fountain to the principal clarinetist in your city's symphony orchestra) and
know what instrument they personally enjoy playing; listen to how the
instrument sounds. You will also want to read up on the different
manufacturers and what other say about them; get their literature; go to
music stores and personally handle their instruments. You have to make your
own decision about whose instruments fit your style. I'm sure the
professionals here have more experienced advice to give!

Stephanie

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