The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Jeff
Date: 2001-06-26 18:07
I'm starting over with the clarinet after about 25 years. At risk of asking a really dumb question...how exactly do you test a mouthpiece?
I see a lot of references and recommendations to "test" a mouthpiece before you buy it. Do you put some sort of cover over it? What about teethmarks on a new one you don't want to buy? Is this something all music stores will let you do? I was recently looking at mouthpieces at one of the few music stores in Boise and the clerk never mentioned that I could actually test one.
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Author: Sara
Date: 2001-06-26 18:57
If your talking about testing and comparing different mouthpieces, when my student bring in a couple of mouthpieces find something that I know they can play really well, and I tell them to use a reed and ligature they know works and I get them to playt he passage with each mouthpiece so they can feel the difference. Look for differences in pitch, tone, and overall sound and flexibilty. Don't forget to see if its a quality sound that you really like! Well hope I could help!
Sara
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Author: Sue B
Date: 2001-06-26 19:44
At the store I go to they allow you to test a mouthpiece by applying a plastic mouthpiece patch. So no problem with teeth marks on the mouthpieces.
Sue
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Author: Sylvain
Date: 2001-06-26 19:53
Most of the time you have to put a mouthpiece patch (scotch tape will do the job if you only test them).
If your local store does not let you try mouthpieces, then try some of the big online retailers, they will usually ship you a few and let you try them for a few days.
I recommend that you try at least 3 of the same kind, especially with big manufacturers like Vandoren. NEVER buy without trying.
Best sellers from Vandoren:
B45: Open tip Medium Long facing
5RV Lyre : Medium tip Medium facing
M13 Lyre: Medium closed Medium long facing
There are thousands of different mouthpieces, talk to your teacher if you have one.
-Sylvain
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