Author: Ed
Date: 2014-09-30 05:09
Quote:
What can you guys tell me about vintage mouthpieces (where should I start, what to look for etc.)? What about refacing? Does anyone do low cost refacing of vandoren mouthpieces?
You can find vintage mouthpieces on the classifieds here, on other woodwind sites, ebay and countless clarinet and sax online shops such as those that deal with used instruments.
I would not worry about the names, but how they play. Unless you have the chance to try things out with the option of returning, you are buying the proverbial pig in a poke. Some are fine, some stink, some could use work. You can end up finding some that are lousy, which is why they are being sold. Just because the mouthpiece has a legendary name tells you nothing. To add to that, you can often find mouthpieces that have already been worked on and have been ruined by a lousy job.
There are a number of people out there who will reface and rework vintage pieces. In no particular order, off the top of my head- Brad Behn, Dave McClune, Richard Hawkins, Lee Livengood, Vytas Krass, Ramon Wodkowski, Walter Grabner and others all do refacing and mouthpiece work. You can find many people who have had positive experiences with each of them.
Personally, I would think about a few things. Decide exactly what you are missing or want in your current set up. It helps to be able to have a sense of your needs, rather than just aimlessly trying equipment. I would consider going to one of the fine craftsmen out there and let them help you find what you want/need and what fits you. There are a number who sponsor this site.
It is too easy to end up playing mouthpiece roulette and to be endlessly on the the search for the holy grail. Find something that is comfortable and that works for you and then practice and work reeds to it. The key is to practice and forget about the equipment.
Hope some of this helps. Good luck.
Post Edited (2014-09-30 16:06)
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