Author: William
Date: 2012-10-19 15:53
Having read some of my earlier postings on this thread, I though an "update" might be in order. I still have not purchased a cane reed since I discovered Forestone reeds. And many of those origina Bb clarinetl reeds are still playing, although most have been adjusted via clipping and shaving. Since then, I have also been playing Forestone sax reeds and some complimentary prototype bass clarinet reeds that were sent to me for trial. More than a few times, I have been complimented on "how nice" my clarinets sound by collegues, conductors and audience members and see no reason to return to the days of cane. Currently, I am playing in a semi-professional orchestra (eveyone gets paid per service and is auditioned), a new community orchestra (you pay to play and there is no audition, although I was invited), three local wind ensembles and a "swing" big band which plays every Monday afternoon for local senior centers (we have a lot in Madison). Also, when on vacation, I try to seek out local bands to "sit in" with just to avoid vacation chops and have fun and play clarinet in new musical settings (sometimes, quite "interesting").
My point is, I do a lot of playing using synthetic reeds and no one has ever turned to me and said, "Yuk"!!! I am playing mostly vintage Forestone clarinet and sax reeds (the new F. clar. reeds are not as good), a combination of Legere and Forestone reeds on my bass clarinet and ordering some Harry Hartmann Fibrecane reeds which seem quite promising. My equipement: Chicago Kaspar #14 sop. mpc, Selmer HS**eb mpc., Grabner CX_BS bass mpc., Selmer "soloist" metal "Jazz" ** alto mpc., Guardala "Studio" metal tenor mpc., and a Joe Anello sop mpc.
So there's my update: still play'n those older Forestones, investigating some new synthetics and thoroughly enjoying my "Cane Mutiny".
Just a comment regarding the use of synthetic reeds destroying one's embouchure, there is a difference that you have to get used to. But once you learn to adapt and control, there is really only positive differences to experiance, there most beneficial being consistancy of tone and response from one day to the next. You can't try them for one rehearsal or moment and decide intelligently, it does take some time. All I can say is from experiance, I made the permanent switch and am not looking back. I am (still) playing the music and not worrying about playing the reed. Life is good..........
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The Clarinet BBoard
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