Klarinet Archive - Posting 000735.txt from 2002/11

From: DGross1226@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Re: Leblanc paperclip contra
Date: Mon, 25 Nov 2002 23:59:23 -0500

In a message dated 11/16/2002 1:17:25 AM Pacific Standard Time,
dnietham@-----.edu writes:

<<Do we have the right mpc for this beast, or should we look for a proper
contra mpc top get the best sound out of this instrument.>>

David,

You didn't mention the brand of mpc that's on your "vintage" contra alto
paperclip. Assuming it's the original Leblanc, you'll need larger reeds like
Vandorens to fit it "rail to rail." I have a Woodwind Company mpc on my low
C contrabass which was refaced by Tom Ridenour and the instrument doesn't
take a whole lot more air than my Bb soprano. However, they have to be
almost perfectly adjusted to achieve that.

Please don't tell the low clarinet purists in the group, but I use the new
RICO contrabass/contra alto reeds which are designed for the slightly smaller
Woodwind Company mouthpieces which work with both contrabass and contra alto
clarinets.

While I agree the original Leblanc mouthpieces produce a somewhat bigger low
end, I'll trade the price of reeds and the ease of playing for the Woodwind
Company's mpc anytime. I have not tried Selmer mpcs on my contra.

One more thought, my contra alto is an old plastic Selmer Bundy that plays
circles around the paperclip contra altos that I've tried. It actually
sounds like a clarinet. The metal paperclips have a unique sound unto
themselves but we won't go there. If you want a real thrill, find someone
who owns a low C Selmer rosewood contrabass.

I would also agree with another lister that you might want to contact Clark
Fobes who's done a LOT of work on developing a contra mouthpiece.

Don Gross
La Canada, California

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