Klarinet Archive - Posting 000299.txt from 2003/01

From: list-klarinet@-----.net (Paul Ebersman)
Subj: [kl] shopping for first mouthpiece
Date: Sun, 19 Jan 2003 10:53:37 -0500

I have just started on clarinet. It's my first reed instrument ever
and I've only done a little flute, so breathing's a bit of a challenge
too. I don't seem to be getting too many squeeks but I'm definitely at
the novice end on mouth control right now.

I got a good deal on a used Buffet E11 w/stock mouthpiece. I found a
teacher who seems quite good but not much of a gear head. He's got me
started on the Rubank and Hite books and long tones and I'm raring to
go.

I've gone through the archives, including all the various tidbits
about a mouthpiece FAQ. I have also been reading the Pino book avidly.

However, everyone talks about general designs but doesn't tie them to
actual mouthpieces (and reeds).

So, based on my teacher's background and the books he's given me, it
seems like I'll be doing classical technique first. That's fine with
me; I like the repertoire and want a really solid embouchure. I've
learned other instruments where I didn't get a solid grounding early
and had to unlearn/relearn later.

My teacher likes the Mitchell Lurie Premium reeds. From the reed
comparisons I've found, this one seems to be more on the flexible end
for each strength.

Given all that, what mouthpieces should I be looking at? What reeds
other than the MLP should I be checking out? I don't mind going
through a half dozen boxes of reeds I might not use again. Ever guitar
I buy gets the same treatment of trying out 6 sets to see what's best.

Thanks!

--
Paul

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