Author: sfalexi
Date: 2018-02-23 04:13
BGBG wrote:
> Maybe I should use 3 reeds in a practice session rather than
> only one. Like a 2, 2.5 and a 3? Most of my reeds have had up
> to 20 playings. Go though them in order then repeat.
>
> EDIT:
> Maybe I just need to play some high notes instead of songs.
> Tried a 2, 2.5, and 3. All about the same. Play well afew
> minutes then start squeaking and jamming up so no note sounds.
>
>
> Post Edited (2018-02-23 03:08)
If by 'jamming up', you mean they are physically closing off the tip and air itself is hard to get through, this COULD be a symptom of too soft a reed, too firm an embouchure, or both. Heck, try 3.5s or 4s. And try (if you can) three reeds of each strength. Some music stores sell reeds singly or in small packs so you can try to find the right strength. Don't do ONE 2, ONE 2.5, ONE 3, etc. Try three of each.
Just give it a shot. It'll cost maybe 20-30 bucks, but would be worth it to find the reed size that is likely to give you the least problems.
Bob,
I remember reading somewhere (I'm pretty sure it was "100 tips" from Michele Gingras?) that having yourself or a student play on a softer reed is a useful tool to help solve biting. And you would HAVE to have a loose embouchure in order to control it and have it not close off. My suspicion based on what they're writing (which of course is the worst way to diagnose a MUSICAL problem!, but hey, we work with what we got on a bulletin board!), is that the reed is too soft.
We don't know the setup (mouthpiece) you use BCBG, but for someone that puts in daily work of 1/2 to 1 hour, and knowing that the majority of mouthpieces mass produced are created for a 3.5-4 reed, I'm willing to bet you need to try out a few 3.5 reeds sooner rather than later.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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