 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Roxann
Date: 2014-11-14 20:21
I own a LeBlanc Noblet 45 Eb clarinet. I've found that it requires a LOT more air pressure to play than my Bb does and I'm wondering if this is normal. The problem isn't just with a few notes here and there. It seems to be with all the notes. If you think there might be something wrong, where would you suggest I start looking for the exact cause of the problem? Thanks folks:)
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Author: pewd
Date: 2014-11-14 20:25
Yes, they take more air, but shouldn't be so resistant that you can't play them.
First off, try different strength reeds -drop down a 1/2 step and see what happens.
Next, try a different mouthpiece - can you borrow one from a teacher?
Also, check for leaks - blow & suction tests. Examine the pads, make sure they're in good shape, not torn, etc.
- Paul Dods
Dallas, Texas
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Author: Ed Palanker
Date: 2014-11-15 19:22
I agree with Paul. Take it to a good tech first, even a small leak can cause havoc. If that's not it you need to try some other mouthpieces and reed strengths.
ESP eddiesclarinet.com
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Author: Roxann
Date: 2014-11-15 23:33
You two may have "hit the nail on the head." I think I've made a false assumption regarding reed strength. I've read that bass clarinets (longer instruments) need softer reeds than what you'd use with a Bb. I assumed, then, that the Eb (shorter instrument) would need a stiffer reed than what you'd use with your Bb. And I have been, gradually, going to stiffer reeds. I just had it in for a tune-up and I totally trust my technician, so I'm quite confident it's most likely not something mechanical. I'll dig up some soft reeds and see what happens. Thank you!
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Author: Ursa
Date: 2014-11-16 06:41
In the event that you're using a stock Noblet mouthpiece, many of them have very inefficient facings, requiring much more air support and softer reeds than would a medium-faced mouthpiece crafted to today's standards.
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Author: Roxann
Date: 2014-11-16 07:43
The mpc says "Noblet" so I assume it IS the stock mpc that it came with (I bought the clarinet used). I'll look into some medium-faced mpc's as you've suggested. I did play with both a 3 1/4 and a 2 3/4 reed today and found the softer reed much more to my liking.
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