An anonymous coward writes “Hey,I’ve been reading articles here and I wanted to ask you, is the Vandorem B45 a student mouthpiece? Which reeds do you prefer for playing jazz?”<p>
Not at all. A B45 is a very good mouthpiece. I used one for a couple of years, and I know a few people out there who still do. When you get more into clarinet, some people like to try to find a different sound that the B45 doesn’t lend itself to. A darker sound. A B45 to me is kind of bright, which is good for Jazz playing in my opinion.
And what about the reeds question? Which reeds do you prefer for playing jazz? Why, do they offer a different sound?
I just tried several mouthpieces, looking to change from a Vandoran V360 if I could find something better and darker. I bought a Vandoran B45 and like it pretty well. I tried a Selmer 6*, a Leblanc K series, and then the (3) B45s, which were surprisingly different… I get a lot more volume from the B45…and it seems good in all ranges. but its still pretty bright.
So– what does anyone else use/recommend?
Hi!
I started playing clarinet a week and a half ago. Thanks for this topic, as it is good stuff. My question is: At what point do you know you need a change? I am learning on a true student horn–no name on it except a model name! Anyway, the reason I started the clarinet is because I want to play in orchestras/symphonies/jazz bands in my area. My horn’s mouthpiece is a Rico Royal B5. At what point do I know I need to change?
I come from a lifetime of music, btw. Years and years on trumpet and guitar. Most recently piano and, now, clarinet as well.
Thanks!
Gary
It is open enough for a bright sound, but nice for chamber music as well. Good for Jazz. You can play 3 to a 4 reed strength on this mouthpiece.
Just a suggestion.
the B45 is a good reed. To me, 3 1/2 Mitchell Lurie work fine with it..and the Bonade Inverted Ligature.