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Re: Mouthpiece / Reed for Young Beginner

Author: Musikat
Date: 2017-09-03 09:11

I was just in your shoes this past year. My son was in 4th grade and in his school they start band then. I have been showing him some things, but I can't really "teach" him much because he is resistant to me making him do the boring work. I have a great teacher in mind for him but probably won't start that until I know for sure he wants to continue in middle school. He is pretty good for his age and what I CAN do as a fellow clarinet player, is showing him the proper embouchure, make sure his technique is correct and help him move ahead at his own pace. He is starting 5th knowing how to go across the break, if not perfectly, and able to play pieces they will get to this year.

I did find that the 4C mouthpiece that came with his Yamaha was causing him some trouble, so toward the end of last school year I ordered the Behn Overture, which was an instant improvement. Only $30 and well worth it. I think Fobes Debut is considered equally good, but I haven't tried that one.

Reed-wise we started with Rico but quickly moved to Vandoren. I did order Behn Aria reeds with 1/2 the box for him to try strength 3 (other half for me), but they are slightly stiff for him. I think this year he will get to them when he is playing more regularly that he has this summer.

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