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Reed quality question

Author: Cavatina
Date: 2008-08-08 22:55

I've recently started learning to play the clarinet. Having read quite a bit about all the different reeds available, I initially bought a few to try out - I got a selection of Ricos and Vandorens in different strengths.

Although I found the Ricos slightly easier to play, I preferred the sound of the Vandorens - the Vandoren 2 was easily the best of the bunch, so I went ahead and bought a full box of these.

However, none of them sound anywhere near as good as my 'favourite' one from my initial selection! I've worked through about half of the box now, and have only found one reed that sounds anywhere near reasonable - the others all sound very muffled and 'breathy', and I find them really hard to play. I've tried 'playing them in', but I don't hear any real improvement over time.

My question is... is this normal? Is reed quality always this inconsistent? Is there really something wrong with the reeds, or is it me? I know my embouchure probably isn't great yet, because I've only recently started playing, but this is ridiculous!

I need to find some new reeds soon, because if I break my 'favourite' one, I don't have a spare! My clarinet is a Buffet B12, and if I use my 'favourite' reed, I can produce a tone that I'm quite happy with - so I don't think I'm completely useless! I would really appreciate some advice from the more experienced players out there.

Thanks!

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