 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: orchestr
Date: 2011-07-20 22:07
Most of the time on Eb clarinet, when I play altissimo D, Eb, E and sometimes F, they want to overblow into the stratosphere, especially when articulated, although sometimes I can attack them and the longer I hold them, the harder it is to keep them from overblowing. However, if I relax my jaw or embouchure, the note doesn't come out at all.
So, I was wondering if this is common, or if I have funky equipment I need to experiment with. I play on a Buffet 2-piece RC Prestige, with a Hawkins mouthpiece and Bonade inverted ligature and Vandoren traditional 4's. I have tried a B44 mpc, and it still squeaked for the most part. I played on a Zinner blank once that wasn't as bad, but it was too stuffy to be practical.
Any suggestions, or similar problems, fellow, um, eeferists?
Thanks
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Author: TJTG
Date: 2011-07-21 00:13
Check for leaks. They were a bigger problem on my Eb when I was playing. Also, if it is a school horn or something, don't be hesitant to remove a couple keys and clean out the problem tone holes. When I cleaned out the horn's register key, my life got a lot easier.
Do you use Bb or Eb reeds? I was much happier with articulation, response, and dynamic when I just cut off a 1/2 inch from my Bb reeds and used those.
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Author: orchestr
Date: 2011-07-22 15:08
No leaks, and the register tube is clean, but I'll double-check everything the next time I go to my repairwoman. I do use Eb reeds because I know many prominent Eb players use them (Mark Nuccio, Michael Wayne, John Yeh), but I will try a few Bb's and see how they work. It may just work for me.
I am still curious if other people have issues with these specific notes on the Eb.
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Author: William
Date: 2011-07-22 15:20
Also, it just may be your mouthpiece. Just because it is a "pro" custom mpc, don't assume its a *good* one. You will have to try many before you find on the "mouthpiece of your dreams". I'm lucky to have 'found' two that work well for me in all registers on my Yamaha 681 effer--a Charles Bay custom and a vintage stock--off the shelf--Selmer HS**. Currently, I am using the Selmer mpc, but both allow me to play more in tune and with better response regarding those notes you mentioned in your posting. I also use cut-down Bb reeds which give produce a "bigger" sound, especially "up there". I am also lucky to have a vintage Winslow sop sax mpc ligature that fits both effer mpcies perfectly and enhances the sound and performance of my effers entire range.
fwiw, I use Forestone reeds on all of my clarinets and saxophones for all of my playing venues--orchestral, wind ensemble, big band and combo jazz.
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