 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Ken
Date: 2002-12-26 03:49
Hi:
What do different tip openings and facing lengths accomplish with clarinet mouthpieces? In other words, if two mouthpieces happen to have the same tip opening, but different facing lengths, or vice versa, what would be the advantages and disadvantages of the two mouthpieces? Can the differences in these two variables affect one's perception as to how easy or difficult it is to play the instrument?
I ask this question in part because I happen to have both the B45 and 5RV mouthpieces from Vandoren. It's my understanding that the B45 happens to have a larger tip opening and longer facing than the 5RV. It's been my impression over the last two years playing with these mouthpieces that the B45 seems to be a little harder for me to control. In particular, it seems like I have to play the B45 mouthpiece closer towards its tip than I do the 5RV. I find that it's much easier to play the C and higher above the staff with the 5RV than with the B45 using the same strength reed.
Thanks,
Ken
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Author: Fred
Date: 2002-12-26 16:22
I would use a softer reed on a B45 than on a 5RV. You didn't say which reed you used - was it the better match for the B45 or for the 5RV? Remember that the reed must be chosen to fit the design characteristics of the mouthpiece. Different designs usually would dictate a different reed.
I can tell you what facing length does for me, but it is a bit confusing when compared to your experience. Facing length generally means the distance from the tip of the mouthpiece to the point where the rails start to curve away from the reed. A long facing length - especially combined with a wide tip opening - can indeed be a more difficult mouthpiece to control. People who like long facing lengths generally put more mouthpiece in their mouth to move the lip support closer to the table. Often bass clarinet players doubling on Bb prefer this setup because in mimics their bass clarinet feel more closely. You may be playing the B45 closer to the tip in an effort to control it better - exactly what the 5RV provides in its design.
5RV - Tightly controlled; very focused. Not much flexibility. Probably not as loud.
B45 - More flexibility; able to create more different sounds (an advantage in jazz, but not very desirable if your are creating those sounds unintentionally in a formal setting). Probably louder than the 5RV.
Hope this helps. Mind you, this is not definitve. This is my perception of the two mouthpieces, plus my effort to second-guess your own experiences. Your mileage may vary.
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Author: Mark Pinner
Date: 2002-12-26 21:54
A short facing should produce a brighter sound with flexibility but a less woody tone. The long facing should be darker sounding. Short open facings are often preferred for jazz where pianissimo subtleties are not as necessary but effects such as growling and flutter tongueing are used. This is largely in theory only as orchestral players use such a wide variety depending on personal tastes as do jazz players. I think you just have to find what is best for you and avoid becoming a mouthpiece junkie. It is interesting that mouthpiece makers seem to make a fair proportion of both long and short.
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Author: Anon
Date: 2002-12-27 13:47
It depends on the person. Your question is like asking what the difference between the M13 and B40 are. For me the M13 is bright and the B40 compact and clear. However, that is for me and not you. Fool around with mouthpieces until you find one that is appropriate for you.
As for openings, closed is bright, and open is more mellow because you need to work to push air through the horn.
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