Ligatures and what they do...
The generic definition of a ligature goes something like this: The act of tying or binding; a cord, wire, or bandage used for tying or binding; a thread, wire, or cord used in surgery to close vessels or tie off ducts; something that unites; a bond. In musical instrument terminology it is something like this: A metal band that attaches the reed to the mouthpiece of the clarinet and related instruments.Although of course it doesn't in fact have to be metal. Simply put, a ligature holds the reed on to the mouthpiece of single reed instruments (clarinet and saxophone). Sound is produced see MOUTHPIECE INFORMATION via the vibration of the reed against the mouthpiece, so as well as all the variable such as reed strength and file, mouthpiece material, facing and tip opening... We now also have ligature. There are no definitive answers as to which is the right one for you. Trial and error might be the best way to tell. In basic terms, the "heavier" the ligature, the more it comes into contact with the reed and mouthpiece, the "darker" the sound. And the reverse, the Rovner light ligatures, for instance, which, just to confuse matters, are made of fabric, have the large portion at the back cut out creating much less reed contact between reed and mouthpiece, so freer vibrations and a "lighter" sound.As well as fabric and leather, ligatures are usually made out of brass but then finished in different materials - normally nickel. Vandoren mouthpieces are gilded but there is more information on them below.
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Vandoren Optimum Ligatures - Information
| Vandoren Optimum Innovation - Click to Enlarge |
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Precise and rapid tightening,
A unique double-track screw mechanism tightens both sides of the ligature equally,
Vertical and symmetrical tightening: Adjusts easily on the mouthpiece,
The reed remains exactly in place,
Neither reed nor ligature are compressed at the sides,
A unique vented cap allows reeds to dry quickly,
Easily adjusts for any situation,
Three interchangable pressure plates adjust to the sound, style and music being performed,
The collar around the mouthpiece remains independent of the area in contact with the reed, allowing the vibrations of the reed to develop without interference. |
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Vandoren Ligature Pressure Plates - Three Different Plates
Plate 1
A rich, colourful sonority which produces great resonance; pressure along the fibre of the reed facilitates an unbelievable blowing ease; incredible ease of articulation;
Plate 2
A more compact, centred sonority, smooth even sound and extraordinary blowing ease;
Plate 3
The reed vibrates in total freedom, producing a very flexible sound; greater ease of expression.
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Rovner Introduction
Rovner -
Rovner Ligatures are some of the finest ligatures available. Woodwind & Brass Ltd. carries a huge range of Rovner ligatures for every instrument, and every playing style.
30 years ago, Rovner was the first manufacturer to patent a non-traditional ligature of this type. All five Rovner models (Light, Dark, Custom MrkIII, Evo and Eddie Daniels) are free playing and responsive, help improve intonation, ease of playing, control and accuracy and give more even scales. Rovner ligatures are also known to extend reed life...
Rovner ligatures hold the reed gently against the mouthpiece with no pressure points - thus there are no rigid constraints on the reed, the reed seats evenly to the facing of the mouthpiece reducing stiffness and increasing tonal clarity. Rovner ligatures are also thought to improve reed playability; reeds which are unplayable on other ligatures will often perform well with the Rovner. Extention of reed life is also a feature - unlike most traditional ligatures, the cane fibres of the reed do not get "hammered" during vibration, but last and last...
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Saxophone Ligatures - Rubber Mouthpieces
Rovner Ligature Chart for Rubber Saxophone Mouthpieces.Click to Enlarge
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Saxophone Ligatures - Metal Mouthpieces
Rovner Ligature Chart for Metal Saxophone Mouthpieces.Click to Enlarge
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Clarinet Ligatures
Rovner Ligature Chart for All Clarinet Mouthpieces.Click to Enlarge
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Rovner Dark Ligatures
The Rovner Dark Ligature assists in producing a full, centered tone. One can compare the results of this ligature with the age-old technology of the string ligature. Enjoyed especially by classical performers for its warm sound, the Rovner Dark is the top selling ligature.Click to Enlarge
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Rovner Light Ligatures
The Rovner Light Ligature is designed for the player who desires a more contemporary style of playing. The ligature assists the performer in seeking a more responsive and free playing sound. Jazz musicians especially appreciate this fact, allowing them the opportinity to concentrate more on their music. Click to Enlarge
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Rovner Eddie Daniels II Ligatures
The Rovner Eddie Daniels II Signature Ligature is like no other ligature in the world. Designed by Eddie Daniels and Phil Rovner as a professional ligature for both clarinet and saxophone players. This ligature features a metal cradle which can be altered to create SIX different tones. The ligature is not designed to be inverted. In all positions, the cradle is designed to sit on the reed, and the screw will tighten against the mouthpiece. The versitlity of this ligature provides the performer with complete tonal control and accurate intonation throughout all registers. Click to Enlarge
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Rovner Custom MkIII Ligatures
The Rovner Custom Mark III Ligature is a premium ligature giving greater weight and substance to the tone in comparison to the light and dark models. Click to Enlarge
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