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RE: Vandoren V12 reeds, why don't they work anymor

Author: DLE
Date: 2002-02-05 00:11

I guess it all depends on where you live, and what is available. I remember a time when the only music shop in the county only sold Rico's --- that was embarrasing to say the least. But having said that, Vandoren should not have made such a big change to the manufacturing of a type of reed (Big to us, anyway) UNLESS there were lots of complaints against the original type. In addition, if they did change the manufacturing methods, shouldn't it have been called by a new name? Example : V12B. I know it is up to the clarinettist to prepare the reed, but still there is the matter of knowing what we are getting in the first place, not to mention the paperwork involved (or lack of - I don't really know).
This change in Vandoren V12's just is not making sense to me (although maybe that's 'cause it's midnight over here). Of course, for all I know they could be doing it all the time, in which case what I have just said would be meaningless and just plain stupid.
As for the preparation, I agree with chuck about the 'balancing' aspect - The trick is knowing the diffference within the reed in the first place. I think it takes experience, time, and a 'knack' - 3 things I wish I had more of! At the moment, I adjust to each reed quite well, and occasionally I scrape one if I think the balance is off - although this usually makes the problem worse, but I can only try...
Just to finish by adding something - You are not the only 'frustrated clarinettist' out there fc. I would imagine the majority of the people on this BBoard consider the playing of the clarinet to be their life, and their passion - and so this is a very serious issue to them too. Please, please however, do not let it get you down. Having stinking reeds can be depressing I know, but try to see it as a challenge rather than an obstacle. Having a bad reed does not neccesarily mean you can't still enjoy playing the clarinet - at times, it can be almost amusing - especially when you try and play high notes! Always look on the bright side of things....
DLE.

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