The Clarinet BBoard

The Clarinet BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Previous Message | Next Message

Re: Embouchure question

Author: seabreeze
Date: 2016-05-31 03:12

Paul's experiment, using a German mouthpiece (Viotto N1) with softer German cut reeds to allow decreased use of lip pressure, is worthwhile. But I wouldn't altogether abandon the possibility that a French style mouthpiece can be designed for use with French style (Vandoren trad. or 21) reeds that would accomplish nearly the same end. I recall several years ago trying a James Kanter mouthpiece with a close facing that played with very little pressure from the lips. I remember thinking "I've never played a mouthpiece before that was so easy to blow and required so little lip force." I cannot now recall the model number and at the time was not interested in using less pressure.

Anyhow, Kanter, who is semi-retired, does still make some mouthpieces and I see that he will be giving a mouthpiece clinic and allowing attendees at the 2016 California Clarinet Clinic in Pasadena (June 19-23) to try some of his models. Max, if you could attend, you might spark Kanter's interest in crafting such a piece and discuss just what its physical attributes might be. By the way, Michelle Zukovsky is on the faculty of this clinic.

http://www.californiaclarinetclinic.com Click on "Special Events" for "Jim Kanter Mouthpiece Clinic.

If you cannot attend, you might try to see Kanter at another venue. I believe Julia Heinen can probably put you in touch with him.

Studying with Michelle Zukovsky should be inspiring; as the only principal clarinetist with a major orchestra in the U.S. for the past 30-plus years to play mainly or exclusively on an Oehler instrument, she has certainly had to think for herself. If you find her lessons beneficial and pragmatic, as I'm sure you will, perhaps you can talk her into writing a book on clarinet playing. That's one book I would want in my collection!

Post Edited (2020-02-28 21:35)

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics

Author

Date

Embouchure question new

maxopf

2016-05-26 08:56