 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Rusty
Date: 2009-04-25 09:38
I`m intrigued by the statement that I often read "a more closed face MPC calls for a stiffer reed and visa versa" Why?
------- does a more closed MPC make a stiffer reed easier to play?
-------or is it that a smaller tip sounds better but a softer reed would shut off in the smaller tip?
..........likewise why go to a softer reed for the larger tip? Just because it`s easier to play but requires the larger tip to vibrate to its maximum?
What happens if you play a harder reed on the larger MPC?
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Author: clariknight
Date: 2009-04-25 11:32
A close tip mpc is exactly what it sounds like, the tip of it is closer to the tip of the reed. Thus, the reed has less distance to travel as it vibrates to close on the tip. So, a harder reed is easier to play on a close tip mpc because it does not have to travel as far.
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Author: Caroline Smale
Date: 2009-04-25 11:41
Its simply a question of providing the optimum balance betweem the mouthpiece lay and the reed strength. A closer tip opening or a longer lay or combination of the two provide less resistance than a more open and/or shorter lay. A harder reed provides more resistance than a softer reed.
(Yes there are a few other criteria such as exact shape of curve etc, but in essence that's it).
So you pick and choose to find what balance suits you best.
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Author: kdk
Date: 2009-04-25 13:19
"What happens if you play a harder reed on the larger MPC?"
Without meaning at all to be snide, the best answer is "Try it and see." There are differences in sound character between soft reeds played on open or short facings and hard reeds played on close or very long facings. It becomes a matter of comfort and the general sound concept you're trying to realize.
Karl
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Author: Rusty
Date: 2009-04-25 22:06
Good answers. Can I assume then that while it is easier to blow a harder reed on a smaller tip, it still isn`t as easy as the large tip and soft reed combination, and it is for this reason that most beginners start with the big tips?
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Author: Caroline Smale
Date: 2009-04-25 22:33
I think most teachers would in fact avoid starting beginners on an open lay and opt for a medium or medium-close lay at the beginning and certainly until a well developed embouchure is aquired.
Harder does not equate to better, a correct balanced of strength is essential for beginners and experienced players.
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Author: kdk
Date: 2009-04-26 04:36
Most beginners don't start with "big" (open) tips in the schools where I teach. The mouthpieces are medium in tip opening and curve length. Most players end up going in one direction or another because, once they begin to study privately, their teachers favor one combination or another.
Karl
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