 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Promit
Date: 2011-09-12 06:26
I played clarinet all through school, 10+ years. I gave up playing when I got to college, and it's been about seven years since. Recently I've decided I'd like to get back into the instrument and I've spent some time acquainting myself with what equipment I had and what needs to change. I wasn't overly concerned with the details back then...
I apparently have a Selmer CL210 intermediate clarinet with a C85 105 mouthpiece and a handful of Vandoren strength 4 reeds. I guess this is apparently pretty good, but it's exceedingly difficult for me to play now. The embochure is no longer there and I don't have the lung capacity anymore either. It's just inefficient and painful. I've already ordered a box of strength 3 reeds which I'm hoping will be easier to work with, and I'm looking to change my mouthpiece as well.
As far as the mouthpiece goes, what's a decent inexpensive choice? Not really performing anymore, so the pinnacle of quality is not necessary. It does need to be very easy to play. I noticed the Hite Premiere and Clark W Fobes Debut pieces which seemed like decent inexpensive choices but I'm not sure. I've also considered buying something like a Vandoren 2RV or M13, or a Selmer C85 120 used (the big auction site has some cheap slightly used options). I'm not really sure which route would be better, or even what basis to select. I do plan on hitting a music store tomorrow, but in the digital age I've become wary of brick and mortar's ability to provide.
There's also the question of how to ease back into things. I don't want to overdo it. I'm not in an orchestral setting anymore, and I really doubt I'll perform any time soon. I'm not sure what would be a good way to get all the old skills and muscles functioning again, and have some decent fun at it. Running scales just doesn't quite do it.
To summarize:
1) Re-beginner mouthpieces?
2) Tips on restarting?
Thanks!
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Author: Tony F
Date: 2011-09-12 07:40
Hi,
I think the only thing you need to get back into it again are some reeds a bit softer than the 3's you have on order. you'll need them, so they're not going to be wasted, but buy some 2's and 2.5's to get your chops over the hump. I'd try your existing mouthpiece with the softer reeds before replacing it, it may well work OK for you with them.
If you do need a new one, a Hite Premier would be a good fairly inexpensive choice, as would a Fobes Debut. Both are responsive, easy-playing mouthpieces designed for the new player, but capable of taking you further.
Have your clarinet checked, or do it yourself. The CL210 is a good student horn, but If it's been unused for 10 years there's a fair chance that some of the pads will be a bit motheaten. Fix what needs fixing.
If your reading skills are up to it, check your local music shop for some easy clarinet solo pieces. Playing these will quickly bring back the old skills. I did exactly this a few years back after a much longer break and it all worked out OK. Good luck.
Tony F.
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Author: davyd
Date: 2011-09-12 14:31
10 years is not that long a time to be away from an instrument.
Find a community concert band to play in. There are ensembles based in Baltimore, Bel Air, Columbia, Annapolis, Olney, etc. Google "Maryland Community Band Day" to find them.
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Author: squeaky
Date: 2011-09-13 00:11
A while back I was in the same situation (but more like after 40 years !). One instrument I picked up was a used Selmer Signet Special. I like both these mouthpieces with it: Hite Premier and a Selmer C85 120. Softer reeds like Mitchell Lurie # 3 and La Voz medium and medium hard work for me.
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Author: Ralph Katz
Date: 2011-09-14 00:33
I didn't play for 4 years in my late 20's. Don't overdo things starting back up - 20 minutes will be plenty each day for the first few weeks.
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Author: Bob Bernardo
Date: 2011-09-14 03:14
There are a few really decent custom mouthpiece makers and mouthpiece adjusters. Feel free in emailing me for some of their names. Often the custom MP's are around the same price as an expensive store bought MP and they don't play as well.
What kind of MP are you playing on now?
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Author: Bob Phillips
Date: 2011-09-17 15:43
Welcome home.
I like Tony's advice. Particularly his choice of mouthpieces.
I'd also suggest that you get a teacher to help you get re-started. If you had any bad habits when you laid off, they'll be weakened now; and it is a good time to get help avoiding them.
You might find it fun to get some play-along CDs. Check for Tre Tempi offerings. I think that the idea of working on some accessible solos is genius, but you might (with that teacher) want to pick up some of the standard literature --like the Rose 32.
Enjoy
Bob Phillips
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