Clarinet Mouthpiece roundup
Clarinet Mouthpiece: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Choosing a clarinet mouthpiece involves a small number of specifications with a significant effect on how the instrument plays. Here is what to look for.
Choosing a clarinet mouthpiece involves understanding a small number of specifications that have a significant effect on how the instrument plays. This guide covers the key decisions: material, tip opening, facing, and brand, with recommendations for players at each level.
What to Prioritise
For most players, the most important specifications are the tip opening and the facing curve. These determine the reed strength you will use and the kind of tone the instrument produces. A medium-closed tip opening is the starting point for classical clarinet playing — it pairs well with medium reeds (2.5–3.5) and gives a controlled, centred tone. Wider tip openings require softer reeds and are used for jazz or more projecting styles. Do not choose a clarinet mouthpiece based on what a professional uses unless you play at a comparable level — many professional choices suit advanced embouchures that beginners have not yet developed.
Recommended Mouthpieces by Level
For beginners and intermediate players, the Vandoren B40 is the most widely recommended starting point — it is the most popular classical clarinet mouthpiece in the world and works well with a wide range of reeds and embouchures. The Vandoren M30 is slightly more open and preferred by many orchestral players. The 5RV Lyre is a shallower-chambered option suited to players who prefer a brighter sound. For jazz, the BD5 or a Rico Royal is worth considering. Clark W Fobes, Backun and Selmer all produce quality options at higher price points. Avoid the mouthpiece that comes with a student instrument — it is a functional placeholder.
How to Match Reed and Mouthpiece
The relationship between the clarinet mouthpiece tip opening and reed strength is the most important pairing to understand. As a general rule: a narrower tip opening requires harder reeds; a wider opening requires softer reeds. If you find you are biting to control the sound, your reed is too soft for your mouthpiece, or your mouthpiece is too open. If you cannot produce sound without excessive effort, your reed may be too hard. A professional or teacher can assess this in a single lesson. See our setup guide for the practical details of fitting reed and ligature correctly.
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