 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: bobmester
Date: 2003-06-26 14:50
This is a basic question from a returning player.
Am I correct that when I put on a harder reed and I get a sound of lots of air and less volume, that the reed is too hard. I know that too soft and the pitch is hard to hold. A just right reed blows easy, no wind or air sound, nice and clear.
Also, will using a reed a half harder make my emboucher develop into a stronger one?
Thanks.
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Author: David Spiegelthal ★2017
Date: 2003-06-26 16:48
You've got it pretty much right. Use the reed strength that's comfortable for you (should be just on the verge of being "too hard") and as your embouchure develops in due time, you'll naturally start playing on harder reeds gradually -- but no need to force the issue, it will come with time.
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Author: William
Date: 2003-06-26 20:29
You might also try tipping the reed "just a wee bit" to the left or right of center on your mpc. This will compensate for a reed whose heart is a little off center either way. The main idea being that the reed will play best if the heart is dead center, and often commercial reeds are cut unevenly so that the heart is not centered but off-set. You can see this, somewhat, by holding the reed up to a light--it is strongest where it is darkest. And that should be, theoretically, right up the center. But the best test is actually tipping either way, perhaps a full centimeter off center, just to test it. If a reed performs best misaliended left or right, there is no reason why you should not play it in that position as a "quick fix."
Most of us who are adept a balancing reeds, will shave the corner area of the reed on its strongest side to try and return the heart to the center. This also will slightly weaken a reed that may seem too hard initially. I use a reed knife although others may use sandpaper or reed rush. Balancing is a bit tricky but essential if one is to realize the full potential of commercial reeds (without going through ten boxes to find the "perfect one").
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Author: Henry
Date: 2003-06-26 20:55
William, I assume you mean "a full millimeter off center" (not centimeter, or it would fall off the mouthpiece!).
Henry
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Author: Synonymous Botch
Date: 2003-06-26 22:42
Yup, the 'Sweet Spot' has been described by lotsa edumacators as the proper balance between 'long vibrations' and a responsive tip at the high end of your playing range.
I find that testing reeds for ease in response (top to bottom) always leads to the same thing... I play a 2 1/2 Rigotti Gold with a 'whisker' trimmed off the tip.
Search the string 'reed break in' or 'reed adjusting' in the Sneezy lore for a method to follow. Break in a reed to get that long lasting flavor!
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