Klarinet Archive - Posting 000424.txt from 2004/07

From: "David McClune" <dmcclune@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] Mouthpiece pitch
Date: Tue, 13 Jul 2004 12:55:20 -0400

I have used for myself and teach that a mouthpiece alone should squack a
high concert C which is sharp, in the crack between c and c#. A high
concert b would yield a honky sound. That said, think of the production
of sound in this convoluted way.

A good mouthpiece with a hard enough reed to alow a high Concert c+ to
sound. There is some pressure on the lower lip, SO we have to have a
fairly hard lip protecting the flesh from the cutting edge of the teeth
and pressure, AND the only way to get a firm lower li is to pull down
the chin and slightly push the corners of the lips inward. Everything
works in balance.

Chin pulled down, so the lower lip muscle can tighten, so the pressure
on the lip from blowing a high c+ on the mouthpiece will not injure the
lip!

The goal is not necessarly biting the reed. We have all heard not to
bite. However pressure must be put on the reed to partially close the
reed onto the facing so the sound is great. Otherwise we sound like
honking beginners!

Unrelated note:

I just finished 114 mouthpieces to take to ClarinetFest. Come, visit
and try some! I challange you to visit all of us mouthpiece makers;
Clark, Jim, David, Michael, Brad, Dan, Walter, Richard, Ben, Greg, and
others. Our hands hurt preparing these toys for you to try out. Sure
beats having only 3 sent in the mail for a trial!

Dave

Dr. David McClune
Professor of Woodwinds
Director of Bands
Union University-1862
1050 Union University Drive
Jackson, TN 38305

Office-731-661-5294
dmcclune@-----.edu
www.mcclunemouthpiece.com

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