 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: wiclarinet
Date: 2007-03-01 00:26
How does one know when to replace your mouthpiece. I feel like my current mouthpiece just isn't allowing me to progress. After buying a new Buffet Tosca this past summer (and not changing the mouthpiece,) I feel like it's gottne worse. However, I thought that you could normally change your sound with your mouth cavity, etc., etc. So basically, should I replace it? In addition, I take lessons from Todd Levy and his mouthpiece always looks absolutely pristine - how is this possible?!?!
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Author: Clarinet4hire
Date: 2007-03-01 01:00
I'd check the barrel first. Just because it's new doesn't mean its any good. Can you try your old barrel, or other barrels? Has the instrument been adjusted/ checked for leaks etc?
If the mpc was playing well on your other horn, I'd check these things first.
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Author: Detru Cofidin
Date: 2007-03-01 01:49
MP's play different on different clarinets. I would go to a store where you can test MP's and see if they work any better.
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Author: JJAlbrecht
Date: 2007-03-01 13:14
You might also try contacting some of the mouthpiece makers who advertise here on this board. Walter Grabner, Gregory Smith, Clark Fobes, Brad Behn and others offer fine mouthpieces, and are knowledgeable and will help you select the best setup for your new instrument.
Jeff
Post Edited (2007-03-01 13:16)
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Author: Bassie
Date: 2007-03-01 20:39
If you're exhausted all possible reed options, it's good for the soul occasionally to go try a few new mouthpieces. That's the best way to know if you want a different one. Your technique will change as you learn, and your equipment might need to change with it. Just watch the GAS*...
* Gear Acquisition Syndrome :-D
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Author: sherman
Date: 2007-03-02 02:52
An important fact in changing mouthpieces is that the new mouthpiece will only play the way it does for one time, especially if you feel as if you've reached Valhalla. the end to the problem of mouthpieces. Don't believe it, for you ,and your embouchure are playing the new mouthpiece as you did the one you have just left and been playing for as long as you have.
Only during the next time you play the new one will you begin to determine its qualities and how you are beginning to acquaintance yourself with them.
So, as to a new mouthpiece, my suggestion is to change only when your mouthpiece isn't allowing you to play , find reeds, make your sound, and play in tune.
Otherwise you are simply swapping one set of variables for another, which can be fun if you've achieved your technique, but can be a slippery slope if you have not, leading to preoccupation with trying "one more".
There are only a few so-called craftsmen who really have the hands, ear and the sensitivity, and are not just sellers of Zinners, practically untouched.
There is a wonderful chapter in William Ridenour's "Educators Guide to the Clarinet", which goes into mouthpieces very simply and comprehensively and can save the reader time and money and bring understanding to the effects of the various aspects of mouthpieces.
Sherman Friedland
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Author: William
Date: 2007-03-02 14:44
One good thing about living in Madison is that we are not all that far from two of the best mpc craftsmen currently in business: Walter Grabner in Evanston and Gregory Smith, close by in Chicago. Either will welcome you to their homes and do "on the spot" adjustments until you are satisfied--at least, that was my experiance, having bought mpcies from both. Just 2.5 hours one way on I-90--give them a call and go for it.
Otherwise, do what Dan Bonade is reported to have said, "Pick one [mpc] blindfolded, throw the rest overboard, then row back to shore and learn how to play it." Of course, you'll have to wait until our Four Lakes thaw....but, you get the point :>)
BTW, I heard L Bartley and the Wingra Quintet last evening, and her sound was quite good. Check out what she is using for a set-up.
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