 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: ed03
Date: 2005-11-19 14:29
Hello,
Well I just had the chance to hear David Shefrin and the Miami String Quartet play Weber and the Mozart. It was amazing. Anyways, I could see he was playing on a Backun barrel and bell but I talked to him after and he said he was playing on a Backun mouthpiece also. I have never heard of Backun making mouthpieces. Anyone have any information? Also I have played on a Pyne and a G.Smith but I am looking for something new. Any suggestions?
Thanks
Ed
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Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2005-11-19 15:46
I hear they are worth every penny of the $300 for which they sell. Haven't tried one yet. I need to look forward to something.
..........Paul Aviles
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2005-11-19 15:59
I have heaard that Backun-Morales is making mouthpieces, but I haven't seen any specifics. If you have not tried any Graber mouthpieces I very Highly recommend the Kaspar 11, and AW-PERS mmodels, both are fantastic. They run about $160 apiece. He also makes some interesting barrels.
Ben
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Author: woodwind650
Date: 2005-11-19 16:17
i like the Fobes mouthpieces and the Richard Hawkins Model "B" is great too.
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Author: Julian
Date: 2005-11-19 16:23
I am playing on one of the Backun mouthpieces. I had been on the same mouthpiece for ten years, but when I tried the Backun, I liked it so much that I played a concert on it, the following evening! It is now part of my standard set-up. It's reponsive, high register great...intonation true, wonderful sound possibilities. Articulation comes with ease.
Leblanc/ Backun artist.
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Author: Sylvain
Date: 2005-11-19 19:11
If that is truly you Julian Bliss, welcome to the BBoard honored to have you here. I heard great music coming out of instrument...
-S
--
Sylvain Bouix <sbouix@gmail.com>
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 2005-11-19 19:28
Sylvain wrote:
> If that is truly you Julian Bliss, welcome to the BBoard
> honored to have you here.
It truly is Julian. He's been observing the BBoard for a few years now
My wife and I were priviledged to spend a week as the house guests of the Bliss family earlier this year and had a wonderful time.
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Author: ed03
Date: 2005-11-19 20:57
Thank you for all your help.
I just called Backun and they are sending me barrels, bells and mouthpieces. They have 5 different kinds of mouthpieces and a 6th one coming. Everyone plays on them now and has said great things about them. I hope they work out for me.. I will keep you all posted on them.
Ed
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Author: EEBaum
Date: 2005-11-19 21:39
Man, another thing for me to plan on shelling out for at Clarinetfest next year. My Hawkins B was recently slightly injured. Still plays great, but it has put "mouthpiece shopping" into my eventual plans.
-Alex
www.mostlydifferent.com
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2005-11-19 21:43
Bah. Now I'm all curious about it too!!! ![[mad]](http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/smileys/smilie9.gif)
US Army Japan Band
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Author: Tyler
Date: 2005-11-19 22:45
Wish list is now comprised of:
1) Backun Mouthpiece, Barrel, and Bell
2) Olivieri reeds or Rico Grand Concert Select reeds (to try in place of v12's)
3) Buffet Festival, tuned and voiced by Backun
4) Spriggs Floating Rails ligature
5) Backun clarinet?????????
I'll never catch up. Guess I'll go do some more long tones.......
-Tyler
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Author: Alseg
Date: 2005-11-19 23:11
Welcome from lurking, Julian.
Will you be concertizing in the U. S. ?
If so, where?
Your recording (I only have one) is great. Any others available?
I loaned the one I have to a young player (age 12) and it rekindled his desire to play.
Former creator of CUSTOM CLARINET TUNING BARRELS by DR. ALLAN SEGAL
-Where the Sound Matters Most(tm)-
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-19 23:20
The Mouthpiece isn't $300, it's $500. It's really good - I'm playing it now too.
Post Edited (2005-11-19 23:21)
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-19 23:22
The Backun-Morales Bells and Barrels are even better than the straight Backun ones. I have both and prefer his new version though the older ones are great too (I have 4)
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2005-11-20 01:12
I think the Backun-Morales stuff is on everyone's wishlist who doesn't already have that great looking great sounding suff.
Ben
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Author: ed03
Date: 2005-11-20 03:39
Ya, I was talking to Backun and the largest order they have recieved was $45,000.... gulp... Well I can't wait to get my shipment from them!
I am starting off with the Traditional Backun barrels, bells and moutpieces.. then maybe move up the Morales stuff. The difference it the Morale is made from the wood from the center of the tree which is better but the Traditional makes are still amazing!
Ed
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Author: clarnibass
Date: 2005-11-20 04:32
"I think the Backun-Morales stuff is on everyone's wishlist who doesn't already have that great looking great sounding suff."
It's not on mine....
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-20 10:02
"The difference it the Morale is made from the wood from the center of the tree which is better but the Traditional makes are still amazing! "
----------------------------
That isn't the only difference, the dimensions are different too.
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Author: Ed
Date: 2005-11-20 11:54
Anyone care to share details on this new mouthpiece? Dimensions, facings, any innovative features, other pertinent info?
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Author: Kevin
Date: 2005-11-20 15:12
I've played on my teacher's Backun mouthpiece, and believe it is probably among the very best pieces I've ever tried. However, they do cost a whopping 500 dollars.
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Author: Alseg
Date: 2005-11-20 15:45
My wishlist is for one of Morries CNC machines!!
Former creator of CUSTOM CLARINET TUNING BARRELS by DR. ALLAN SEGAL
-Where the Sound Matters Most(tm)-
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Author: Bob Phillips
Date: 2005-11-20 16:16
Alseg:
Right ON!
(and the skill to program it)
Bob Phillips
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Author: Bellflare
Date: 2005-11-20 16:29
$500???
Hey, know whut?
That puts Behn within range.
Or is that Canadian scheckkles? (still costs a bunch of rubples)
So what ARE the guts of this miracle mouthpiece like?
Maybe show a picture. Facings? Do tell......
And what IS a CNC machine?
Oh I know..
It is a ATM for Barrels ![[grin]](http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/smileys/smilie5.gif)
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2005-11-20 20:33
Wow, and I just managed to afford to buy another vintage Kaspar after being without one for 3 years. I'm thinking Backun now--really thinking.
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Author: ed03
Date: 2005-11-20 20:47
Hello again,
Wow what a popular subject. I can't wait to get my shipment.. it arrives Tues morning! Barrels! Bells! and moutpieces!
If anyone is interested in trying their products out you should give them a call. They are super friendly and very informative.
Ed
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Author: Bradley
Date: 2005-11-20 23:23
Post Edited (2016-10-03 09:02)
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Author: Ed
Date: 2005-11-20 23:32
"They are super friendly and very informative."
They should be, at those prices, they should buy you dinner ;-)
Actually, I had a conversation with Morrie a few years ago and he was very pleasant. I can say that there are many of the technicians, refacers, retailers, etc who are great to work with. Over the years I have had contact with Clark Fobes, Walter Grabner, Greg Smith, Phil Muncy, Dave McClune, Brad Behn, Chris Hill, among others who have all been first rate in all respects. It is wonderful to have such great people out there who have so much to offer and who are so informative and pleasant to work with.
Post Edited (2005-11-20 23:33)
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Author: frank
Date: 2005-11-21 18:12
Maybe Jon Manasse and Carbonare would sound better if they dumped their $60 Vandoren mouthpieces and got a Backun. I don't believe in fads when it comes to musical equipment. Time will tell as to whether it's worth spending $500 for a mouthpiece. That thing better play all the left hand notes for that cash!
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-21 18:50
yeah, maybe....
Or, at least they wouldn't have to work as hard
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2005-11-21 18:56
I'm also interested in the outcome of the Backun custom clarinets. I wonder how much those babies will cost? I'm sure they'll be wonderful. I have a couple of barrels and a bell.
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2005-11-21 19:08
I have been interested to see what they can do with the custom clarinets since I first saw the little promo page on their site. I am sure the cost will be absolutely obscene, but their I hear their quality is too. With bells and mouthpieces going for $500+ I can only imagine. I would guess they would be in the range of if not more expensive than Wurlitzer's isntruments, but I don't really know. I hear them talking about solid silver or solid gold keywork. Going with solid 10k or 14k gold with the keys would add thousands to the cost. Not to mention the custom bore demensions, one piece bodies in hand selected pieces of wood and all that. Wonderful to be sure, but not exactly in the price range that most of us can afford to put out for a clarinet.
Ben Newby
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2005-11-21 19:27
That sounds about right for what the are charging for eveything else. and I keep thinking the Chadash and Rossi horns expensive at $4000. 10K, I guess thats only 4 or 5 times what you pay for an R13, right (hehe).
Ben
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Author: frank
Date: 2005-11-21 19:53
I think Backun is great at marketing his products. I would pay 10k for a clarinet if it was amazing. Oh, and if it would last as long as a handmade flute. Then the price would be well worth it. The bottom line is if you tell anyone anything long enough, eventually they will believe it to be true. Just go to a Clarinetfest vendor exibit to see this behavior in full effect. People will tell you how awesome you sound playing their product, regardless of how you actually sound and regardless of how impractical the product is. Then, back that up with a top player saying the same thing... whammo! Name your price, sir!
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-21 20:29
Do you really think that players like Larry Combs, Eddie Daniels, and David Shifrin would give 2 craps about what the "bandwagon" is doing??
Shifrin isn't a guy for hire and neither is Combs - yet both love his products.
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Author: Sylvain
Date: 2005-11-21 21:04
While I agree that the the top players might not care about what the "bandwagon" is doing, they are certainly not immune to marketing.
Time will tell what products will survive the different hypes, although it is not always the best product which becomes the standard. Think, glass container of Heinz ketchup, worse design ever, still on the market, a certain computer operating system full of bugs...
There are probably technicians out there that are just as competent as Mr Morrie, yet they do not get the attention they deserve because they do not know how to market themselves or simply don't want to deal with it. In Mr Morrie's case, we have a great technician and a great marketer.
-S
--
Sylvain Bouix <sbouix@gmail.com>
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Author: GBK
Date: 2005-11-21 21:45
Sylvain wrote:
> In Mr Morrie's case, we have
> a great technician and a great marketer.
All built into the price ...GBK
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Author: frank
Date: 2005-11-21 22:29
David,
2 craps? I doubt it. Those three guys have changed equipment quite a bit. Hmm...Just like Ricardo. When Ricardo played Pyne and Leblanc, EVERYONE wanted them. Now EVERYONE want's a Backun! That was my point! The fact that you say...so and so plays them, so it's gotta be good...proves what I am trying to say. When all these players use the "next big thing", I am sure you will follow as well as everyone else. And, there is nothing wrong with that! I am not immune to marketing hype either. My rebelious and cautios nature challenges it though. I believe in using the best equipment possible and stuff that suits you. I have many Backun products and like them. Shifrin, Ricardo, Combs and Eddie sound great on anything. Knowing Ricardo's penchant for switching brands, I highly doubt in 5 years he will be an all Backun player. What do you think? My two cents!
What happened to Brannen being the best repairman? Pyne being the most expensive, and obviously the "best" mouthpiece out there? How about everyone needing a Pyne barrel? How about vintage Kaspar mouthpieces? Moennig barrels? Just a few "must haves" from the past.
Post Edited (2005-11-21 22:34)
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Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2005-11-21 22:42
Did anyone mention yet........you have to use a buffet stock barrel with the Backun Clarinets?
:-)
..............Paul Aviles
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-21 23:11
I never bought a Pyne Barrel nor Mouthpiece.
I've tried them, and they weren't for me.
And yes, only time will tell. There are many master craftsmen out there from Fobes to Brannen, Yan to Backun.
There is also a lot of jealousy from the "have nots" too......
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Author: Scotti
Date: 2005-11-22 00:07
David Blumberg wrote:
"There is also a lot of jealousy from the "have nots" too......"
Seriously????
Did you really just throw that out there?
So far on this thread you have subtley insulted Manasse and Carbonare while exhalting Combs, Shifrin, and Daniels as "above" the possibility of hype (Last I checked, they were great players, but regular musicians as well, every bit as subject to suggestion, insecurity, and the propensity to tinker with equipment for the sake of change). You managed to follow that up with this most recent implication, that many people who speak out against Backun products are simply unable to attain them, and therefore jealous. I can only assume through your wording that you must be one of those "have"s. Wow, good for you.
Everything you've said can fall under the category of opinion, but that doesn't mean it isn't out of line or way beyond your level of credibility. Stop acting as some sort of authority on all things clarinet. Plenty of very successful performers don't like certain Backun products for legitimate reasons. In addition, Frank's point was excellent and valid; there have been plenty of fads that have come and gone. Don't try and discount his point by offering your own experience (who cares?) and chalking up dissenting opinions to jealousy.
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2005-11-22 01:06
Quote:
I never bought a Pyne Barrel nor Mouthpiece.
I've tried them, and they weren't for me. There ya go. Just cause it's a "Backun" product doesn't necessarily mean that it'll be YOUR perfect match. Quote:
Sylvain wrote:
> In Mr Morrie's case, we have
> a great technician and a great marketer.
All built into the price ...GBK Precisely. I think (don't understand if this is what YOU were saying GBK) that the price itself is a marketing feature. Everyone knows that $500 is a lot of money when it comes to mouthpieces. But if I were to buy a $500+ mouthpiece, I'd probably subliminally HEAR it to be better because "If it costs THAT much it MUST be great". Backun has become a "brand name" of clarinet products.
FYI, I heard he's opening a small store on Fifth Ave next to Gucci . . . you can buy a handbag, and a clarinet bell that won't even fit in it . . .
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-22 01:15
I put Scott Erinson clarinet into google and came out with zero results........
And I didn't insult Carbonare nor Manasse.
Yes, I have seen jealousy about his products. And Scott, I'm not an "authority on all things Clarinet", but I do have impressive enough credentials just like many other professional players here.
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2005-11-22 01:21
FWIW, I didn't interpret Dave's comment about carbonare and manasse working hard as an insult. Only that he thinks that a mouthpiece should basically allow them to play at their potential while not having to work hard to get it to play correctly, and that maybe if they switched from vandorens to backun, this might happen. Maybe they're not working hard right now anyway on vandorens, but that IS the basic principle of a "great" mouthpiece. Produces the sound you want with the least thought/effort put into it.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-22 01:26
I nor anyone else can say that one thing will work best for everyone, that just won't and can't possibly happen.
Scott's just trying to bait me into a fight, and frankly I'm not feeling game right now for it
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Author: clarnibass
Date: 2005-11-22 04:21
Like I've said before, in my opinion it is more a matter of culture and advertisement.
For example, from what I've seen in the USA there is much better advertisement and also people are more likely to look on the internet, so Backun products will find their way to many more people. I also think in America people are more used to the internet for buying. I don't know anyone in my country for example that ever bought a clarinet online.
I wanted to contact some of my favorite clarinet players (not to ask them about equipment) and it was very hard, since none of them even have a website. So to David's comment about finding nothing on google - I've found very few results for two of the best clarinet, bass clarinet, and contrabass clarinet players, who are pretty famous in France from what I understood, and pretty much considered the top clarinetists there. Don't confuse the internet with reality, although it can be confusing.
Another example is I was told by several French clarinetists that probably more than 90% of the clarinet players in France play Vandoren mouthepices (some of my favorite clarinetists happen to be French, that's why I give them as example). Since Vandorens in France are not better than anywhere else, I would assume it is tradition to play Vandorens.
Also notice that most (not all) people that go for the latest technology are mostly classical players. Maybe since classical players (most of the time) don't get the chance to be as innovative musically as jazz and improvizing players, they try to search other ways to keep changing - and changing equipment seems to be the way.
I didn't do research so what I say is based on what I see online and in the countries I visited.
Post Edited (2005-11-22 18:10)
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Author: GoatTnder
Date: 2005-11-22 06:19
I'm actually heading to meet with the man tomorrow, since he's in LA for the week (and LA is only about an hour away from me). From my experience playing his products, the quality of sound and craftsmanship is definitely worth the price.
Unfortunately that was not so with a more recent ligature purchase. Ah well, such is life.
Andres Cabrera
South Bay Wind Ensemble
sbwe@sbmusic.org
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-22 10:10
"Also notice that most (not all) people that go for the latest technology (=Backun) are mostly classical players. Maybe since classical players (most of the time) don't get the chance to be as innovative musically as jazz and improvizing players, they try to search other ways to keep changing - and changing equipment seems to be the way. "
--------------------------------
Jazz players aren't as concerned with things like intonation, sound, response, and articulation like the Classical players are. I'm not saying that they aren't concerned about that, but not nearly to the same degree.
They can sound like a kazoo and still do what they do..... (hey, I'm a poet!  )
Post Edited (2005-11-22 13:57)
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Author: clarnibass
Date: 2005-11-22 13:19
"Jazz players aren't as concerned with things like intonation, sound, response, and articulation like the Classical players are. I'm not saying that they aren't concerned about that, but not nearly to the same degree."
This is just not true. It is unfortunate you think that.
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2005-11-22 13:40
David, WHERE did you get that photo? Is it for real or digitally produced?
That's hilarious.
I might add that my Backun bell really did help my Buffet R-13, but doesn't do squat for my Leblanc Opus. The difference in the R-13 was simply amazing. It was so obvious that I don't think any amount of ad hype would have been needed to convince me to buy it. I was skeptical about the Backun stuff at first, but after trying it on my R-13 I was sold.
However, I agree that sometimes we clarinetists tend to run after every fad and nuance of the marketplace. I think the quest is to have a good sound and if something comes along that helps "jump start" that process, we're up for it. The "Magic Bullet" syndrome.
That said, I applaud Mr. Backun's skill as an artisan. The clarinet is such a wonderful instrument, and so difficult to play REALLY well, it's a joy to have such people to dedicate their lives to it. It seems the instrument is always evolving with new technological improvements.
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Author: ed03
Date: 2005-11-22 13:43
Hi Everyone,
Well I just got my package and I am so excited to try their products out. I didn't mean for this to get this big and to get into all these arguements. I think everyone is able to have their own opinions and I am sure a Vandoreen M15 mouthpiece could very well work out better for people than a Backun. I just love to try new products.
Thanks!
ed
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-22 13:59
I made it - all in fun.
You can't take this place too seriously or it's too easy to get the knickers all bunched up in a knot.
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Author: frank
Date: 2005-11-22 16:24
I like the sign David. But remember... only the Sith deal in absolutes! I am still wanting legit data from the previous discussion of how "pro" players must play 100 or more Vandoren mouthpieces to find a good one. I would say that when you write it often comes across as being dogmatic. Your professional credentials aside - whatever they may be - make no difference in choosing personal equipment. You pointed this out as well! "Credentials" are fine and dandy, but to me it's about the sound one is producing and the beauty that eminates from their instrument. I am in no way saying you do not have a nice sound or aren't a fine player. I don't know, I haven't heard you play! I know plenty of people with great predigree from major schools and plenty of experience who sound like ass. Money talks, b.s. walks my friend.
I hated the Pyne mouthpiece even when everyone had to have one. Actually, I still don't like them (I own 5). I will buy a Backun mouthpiece and I hope it's better than my cheapo $60 Vandoren M14 that's 4 years old. As I said before, it better play all the left hand notes AND play perfectly in tune, AND require zero effort on my part to play it. So little effort in fact that I don't even have to show up to the gig. Will the Backun play the gig for me? Awesome!
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2005-11-22 16:35
Why on earth would you buy a 5th Pyne Mouthpiece after hating or atleast not liking the first four? I own 3 mouthpieces, that it, and I llike all of them. Not to be argumentative or offensive, but that leaves me pretty confused.
Ben Newby
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Author: frank
Date: 2005-11-22 16:43
Ben,
I bought them all at once. I used the Bn model for about 2 months. 4 were the BN I believe and 1 was a Bel Canto. I figured I could use one as a spare and give a couple to friends. I ended up hanging onto all of them. Are you un-confused now
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Author: Morrie Backun
Date: 2005-11-22 17:40
Hello to all,
I just wanted to thank everyone for contributing to this thread. Many of the ideas for our experimentation and Clarinet development come from candid discussion and ideas that players share with us.
Just a few quick notes for clarity:
The CNC machines that were mentioned are very large Computer Numerically Controlled machines that are capable of working to tolerances of 1/10000 of an inch. They are amazing to watch in action and ours are heavily modified and customized for our rather unique purposes. (it is hard to go to the Clarinet tool repair aisle at Home Depot!) We have a full time professional applications engineer to design the software programs and fixturing. These machines allow us to achieve repetitive accuracy and designs that we could not achieve on traditional machines. Computers also drive our laser cutting machine, which is a very exciting new tool that will offer makers capabilities that may revolutionize many of the processes that we currently utilize.
Brenda mentioned that the bell from ber Buffet did not seem to improve the Leblanc. I suspect she is quite correct as the design that seems to work well with the Opus is quite different from the one that usually plays well, for most players on an R-13. The bells that Larry Combs selected for his Opus clarinets are Cocobolo, with an enlarged taper and thinner wall dimension.
The mouthpieces are quite new, so most of you will not have seen them yet. The design is very different from most mouthpieces that you will have, both visually and from an acoustic point of view. They are made utilizing CNC technology, laser cutting and yes, humans are involved (but none were harmed during the process) There are five different models at present plus 2
E Flat models and 2 Bass Clarinet models. They were designed in co-operation with Ricardo Morales. Ricardo has come to Vancouver several times for extended periods to work on the project. He is a very hands on guy who has actually operated some of the machines and also worked at a number of the hand reaming processes.
Ricardo is not only a wonderful player but also one who has a sincere interest in trying to further the development of the instrument. Our mutual goal was to provide a mouthpiece that is so efficient that more reeds work, play better, provide flexibility and produce excellent intonation all with a great sound. Having said that, mouthpieces are highly personal and no one maker is likely to appeal to everyone. It is a great resouce to have a number of talented mouthpiece makers / refacers, technicians and manufacturers all offering a selection for each player to try and find "their own voice." Is it your voice? You will be the best judge of that if you have a chance to try them.
I noticed that Julian Bliss also posted to this thread. Julian is an astonishing new voice in the Clarinet world who I encourage everyone to go hear at the earliest opportunity. If Julian is the future of the Clarinet world....we are in great hands. He is barely 16 and has already been a featured soloist with many of the world's leading orchestras.
As for well known players trying 100's of any make to find "the" one. I have personally observed that very high visibility players each have their own approach to trying equipment. I have worked with several who want to try only 1 or 2 and others who want to try a large number. This is an observation made not only with mouthpieces, but also bells, barrels and complete instruments. It is a personal process and different players approach it that way. Some players are very analytical and others selections are made more on an initial "feel." I should mention to Clarnibass that a number of players who are using our products are also well known jazz, commercial, contemporary and solo players, not only orchestral. Good musicians are good musicians....period I do not think that a generalization can be made.
I do not want to make this a commercial advertising message by describing each model, pricing, referrals or specifications, etc. We are going to put the relevant information on our website (which is being worked on as we speak) and with a bit of luck, the information will be available at www.backunmusical.com by early next week or you can email: info@backunmusical.com
As I recall, this thread started with a review of David Shifrin and his quintet performance. David is a rare and wonderful musician who has contributed so much to the advancement of the instrument we play. It is a great pleasure and priviledge to work with David whether it is on mouthpieces, bells, barrels or setting up his new instruments. Moreover, he is a really nice guy!
If any of you have a chance to visit Vancouver (it is a really beautiful city) please let me know in advance. I would be pleased to show you these machines and let you get a feel for what we do "firsthand." David Blumberg has seen them firsthand during his visit, so he has a good understanding of what it is that we do.
Make sure that you attend Clarinetfest 2007, which will be in Vancouver.
With regards to all,
Morrie Backun
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Author: clarnibass
Date: 2005-11-22 18:20
"I should mention to Clarnibass that a number of players who are using our products are also well known jazz, commercial, contemporary and solo players, not only orchestral. Good musicians are good musicians....period I do not think that a generalization can be made."
You are right. I edited the 'Backun' in the part in my post about classical and jazz clarinetists. That was a mistake since it is not necessarily Backun products that has to do with it so I apologize.
I was trying to find the reason for the constant search for better equipment. I believe it is as much psychological as practical, if not more.
From now on I'll try to avoid threads about something I have no experience with or am I considering trying.
Good luck to everyone with whatever equipment you play.
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2005-11-22 18:35
"I would say that when you write it often comes across as being dogmatic. Your professional credentials aside - whatever they may be - make no difference in choosing personal equipment. You pointed this out as well! "Credentials" are fine and dandy, but to me it's about the sound one is producing and the beauty that eminates from their instrument. I am in no way saying you do not have a nice sound or aren't a fine player. I don't know, I haven't heard you play! I know plenty of people with great predigree from major schools and plenty of experience who sound like ass. Money talks, b.s. walks my friend."
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That's ok with me Fran, enjoy my dogma if you are inclined.....
You wrote that you haven't heard me play. My site is
http://download.com/davidblumberg which has the Brahms Trio on it performed with a winner of the Artists International Competition NYC. And yes, with choosing personal equipment the ability of a player does come into play as someone who is not particularly advanced may not pick up some of the subtleties that a more advanced player would.
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2005-11-22 18:40
Thanks Frank, that does clear things up. I have never buoght that many at ine time.
And Morrie, it is very cool to hear from the creator a little bit about the design ad working of the new piece. If I am in Vancouver I will certainly try to stop by. I just ordered a Chris Hill blank thaht Walter Grabner is facing and voicing, but you all have got me thinking what I might do the next time I find my self with $500 for this sort of thing.
I am wondering has anyone seen any pictures of the new mouthpiece or detailed information on it? Last time I checked the Backun Morales site it was just the newsletter. thanks,
Ben
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 2005-11-22 19:42
This thread has now served its purpose and is closed.
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The Clarinet Pages
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