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What do clarinet reeds and jeans have in common?
Finding the best clarinet reed for your setup is a lot like searching for the perfect pair of jeans—frustrating at times, but incredibly rewarding when you find the one that fits just right. The similarities don’t stop there! If you’ve ever delved into the world of clarinet reeds, you know that we have a lot of options, which can all be compared to shopping for jeans: Cane or synthetic? Just as some people prefer the natural feel of denim while others go for stretch blends, you have the choice between cane or synthetic (or use both)! Which brand? It’s easy to have analysis paralysis with so many options of brands…
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Are you allergic to the clarinet?
Although this might sound like a weak excuse to get out of band class, it is possible to experience allergies to some of the clarinet’s components. Here’s how you can be allergic to the clarinet: (Just a reminder – I am a classically trained clarinetist and not a medical doctor. If you experience any concerning symptoms while playing clarinet, please consult a trained health care professional.) If you’ve recently started playing clarinet or changed a piece of equipment and notice redness, itchiness, rashes, or other symptoms of an allergic reaction, you might be allergic to something on your clarinet. The most likely culprits are nickel (on the keys or ligature)…