 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: D Dow
Date: 2003-09-23 17:50
Just received two Opperman mouthpieces from a colleague who just retired. I notice the materials are exactly the same as the one which I own, except these two are signed.
What my question is...what type of blank does Opperman use, and exactly where does he get them?
They seem quite different from the Riffault blanks and the Zinner. I also notice the beaty of the finishing of the rails and contouring of the baffle. Quite different than most makers.
All the Best.
David Dow
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Author: John J. Moses
Date: 2003-09-24 02:33
Why not give Kal a call, or drop him a line. He has a business and studio in NYC.
Kalmen Opperman
17 West 67th Street
New York, NY 10023
212-877-4378
JJM
Légère Artist
Clark W. Fobes Artist
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2003-09-24 14:41
David -
Kal uses many blanks, altering each to fit his specifications and then tweaking each according to how it plays. He has used the older Buffet stock mouthpieces from time to time, but he has told me that they need a lot of work. He had some blanks made with his name impressed and filled with gold leaf (I have one), but I think that was only an experiment. I have several of his mouthpieces, and few of the blank styles are the same.
He uses an electric vibrating stylus to remove any maker's marks, and he almost always signs the finished mouthpiece with the stylus.
He's well into his 80s, and, although he might make something for John Moses, who's a well known player, he otherwise makes mouthpieces only for his students. You're lucky to have them.
Best regards.
Ken Shaw
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Author: John J. Moses
Date: 2003-09-25 03:44
Ken is right on about Kal. He's older now and not feeling well all the time, so he's not making lots of mouthpieces.
I suggested you write or call him only for information about his mouthpieces or equipment already out there. He has lots of info about his own stuff.
I think Ken is probably also right about the student thing, Kal is very loyal and helpful to his old students and friends.
He's a real gem to still have around.
JJM
Légère Artist
Clark W. Fobes Artist
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