Klarinet Archive - Posting 000482.txt from 2004/05

From: "Kevin Fay" <kevinfay@-----.com>
Subj: RE: [kl] Mouthpiece for doubler on Alto sax.
Date: Thu, 27 May 2004 21:16:41 -0400

Tom Wood posted:

<<<I know there are quite a few 'doublers' on the list who play alto sax
also. I am attempting to play alto again after many years..........I last
played in the late fifties.

I am curious as to what mouthpieces you doublers are using that you really
like. Especially if you double in a jazz ensemble or similar type
group. I have lost what knowledge I had years ago about who makes the
better mp's for sax......>>>

What I like:

For concert work, my hands-down choice is a Sigurd Rascher. Unless you can
find an old (pre-1945) Buescher, you'll have difficulty getting the sound I
like on alto. The Caravans are not as good, IMHO.

For commercial work, it depends on how much "pop" you need in your sound. A
good cheap mouthpiece is the Brilhart Ebolin; many like the 3*, I prefer a
little more open (I use the 5*). While looked down upon by some, many
players from Johnny Hodges to Maceo Parker have managed quite well with
them.

The new Meyers aren't much like the old Meyers that were the standard in the
'50's and '60's. The new G series is better, just bought one.

If you need even more sizzle, the Brilhart metal comes with a plastic
removable baffle. A decent commercial mouthpiece with the insert out; a
chain saw with it in. You can compete with the electric guitars.

. . if that's not enough, try a Vandoren Jumbo Java (the blue one). Hide
the women & children first, though, you could hurt someone with it. Wear
protective clothing.

YMMV of course.

kjf

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