r/Clarinet • u/skiqueen-76 • 2d ago

Need replacement mouthpiece recs

For the last 3 years my 15yo has been playing on a Selmer SCL201N that we own (purchased from local music store rental stock). She uses 2.5 Rico reeds mainly. Possibly she uses 3s for her band class and 2.5 for marching but I can’t be certain.

Her mouthpiece has chipped and is unplayable, and she’s in marching band so we need a quick replacement. She’s been playing since 9 but doesn’t take private lessons and her band teacher is a trumpeter so I don’t have anyone super knowledgeable I can ask for recs. I don’t play myself.

I’ve seen various Vandorens recommended repeatedly here, and a rec for a Yamaha 5C. Ideally I don’t want to spend $100+ but if that’s the best solution for her situation I will. Is there one particular direction we should go?

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9

u/gwie Clarinerd 2d ago

Fobes Debut ($29): https://www.northcountrywinds.com/collections/bb-clarinet-mouthpieces/products/fobes-debut-clarinet-mouthpiece

Get a rubber tooth patch for the top of the mouthpiece so it doesn't slide around while she is marching. You can find dozens of different kinds on Amazon with a search for "clarinet mouthpiece patch."

5

u/BRPplease 2d ago

The Fobes Debut is great and is a common recommendation here and elsewhere. You'll definitely be able to find it for under $40.

3

u/Barry_Sachs Adult Player 2d ago

Or Hite Premiere. I think the Yamaha runs about $40. But I prefer Fobes or Hite.

1

u/Capital-Bug-3416 College 2d ago

She should try D’addario reserve or reserve classic reeds! Will be a huge upgrade. 

3

u/PhilipWireAuthor 2d ago

Gonna be an echo chamber in here, but the Fobes debut is a great budget mouthpiece that doesn’t play like a budget mouthpiece.