We’ve all heard the terminology when it comes to our mouthpieces. A player will declare “I prefer a medium tip piece with a longer lay” (facing length). Those further along the clarinerd trail will espouse the virtues of a “36-22-12-6-106” over a “36-24-12-6-106” …

It is generally accepted that at some point during your playing career, you will be on the hunt for a new mouthpiece. Though the reasons for your search may vary, it is important to arm yourself with some basic knowledge of mouthpiece geometry and how it impacts performance before you begin wading through seemingly endless supply of options.