Klarinet Archive - Posting 000179.txt from 2002/06

From: "Kevin Fay" <kevinfay@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] S*x Questions
Date: Wed, 5 Jun 2002 21:29:51 -0400

David Glenn noted:

<<<Since Lelia's very thoughtful and knowledgeable ideas didn't help, I
think the only thing left must be the reed. The reason is that the Raschèr
Sax. mpce is very closed. You'll need probably a 3 1/2 or higher to get
enough resistance for the high tones.>>>

A harder reed helps . . . a bit. I already use a 3-1/2.

<<<If a harder reed doesn't work, try an opener mouthpiece but I think the
Raschèr is ideal for a doubling clarinetist.>>>

I have a drawer full of alto mouthpieces - everything from a cheapie
Brilhart 5* that gets a great "commercial" sound to a blue "Jumbo Java"
doorstop made by Vandoren that sounds not unlike a chain saw. The problem
is most noticable on the Rascher, for sure.

Unfortunately, I get the tone that I want to produce only on the Rascher (in
this context, anyway). Alas, nothing else will do!

One other data point - Sigurd got 4+ octaves on one. I can, too - just not
on this particular saxophone. I will go home and check the seal on the
lower octave key as both Lelia and Bill have suggested. I suspect that we
might have our answer, as only one spring holds it closed at this point (two
hold it down when the octave key is not depressed).

Thanks to all for your helpful suggestions,

kjf

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