The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Nick Conner
Date: 2000-04-10 22:11
I play on a B45 and Vandoren #4's. Does using a hard reed with an open mouthpiece have any negative effects? I know softer reeds are generally used for more open mouthpieces. I've tried using closed mp's, but they all seem stuffy and really resistant. I THINK my tone is ok, and I don't have trouble tonguing (besides the normal battle for a light, fast tongue). Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.
-Nick Conner-
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Author: christine
Date: 2000-04-10 22:45
I had a combo just like that for years but now I've had to switch to softer reeds because the pressure buildup was too much and I was having soft palate problems. The switch was amazing, my articulation was much clearer and after getting used to the new reeds my sound was great and it was so much easier to blow!
But hey, if it works for you then great! It worked for me for a long time too.
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Author: Pam
Date: 2000-04-11 02:31
Recently I switched to a Vandoren 5JB, which is a really open Jazz mp. I have found that I need to go to a really soft reed (2 or 2 1/2) to get the full sound that I want. If the reed is too hard, it sounds stuffy. I have also played on a B45 which I can use a harder reed on -- for me right now that is only a 3. (I can still get the higher notes with the softer reeds too.)
Just a sidenote, though, I have only recently begun playing again after about 20 years off, so maybe my lip is not as tough as some of the others on here. I'm loving playing though, and that's what it's about for me at this time.
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Author: Beejay
Date: 2000-04-11 21:09
You play on whatever reed gives you the best results -- that's why they make so many gradations. Vandoran #4s seem like roofing tiles to me. I played a B45 with Vandoren #3s for a long time, but recently switched to a more open B45 lyre and Vandoren 2 1/2. I find the combination very free-blowing and I like the tone as well.
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Author: paul
Date: 2000-04-12 20:54
I have to agree with the posters above. Whatever makes you happy, go for it. If you have the air support strength for it, use it.
Typical results for me as an adult novice are a bit less than the results the folks above gave. I have a Vandoren B45 mp and I typically use 2.5 Vandoren V-12s or doctored up 3.0 V-12s that would grade out to 2.75 strength or so.
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