Doublereed Archive - Posting 000067.txt from 2003/04

From: Richard Bush <rbushidioglot@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [DR-L] english horn out of adjustment
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 21:09:58 -0400

Jenn,

There are two possible problems that I can think of. 1) The low C# and
D# (Eb) share the same rod. The C# key either pins to the rod at the
touch piece (key spatula) and again pins to the lower section of the D#
that has the pad, or it has a bypass bar going beneath the D# which
turns or rotates freely on the rod. The combination of these two keys
is mounted between the posts with pivot screws. It is possible that
this rod is bent. It could happen if the overriding arm that "camel
backs" over the low c and picks up the D# key got bumped, as it does
somewhat protrude. Such a bend in the rod could keep the C# key spatula
down (C# pad open) and prevent the low C from returning to the open
position. 2) It is possible that a post that holds a pivot screw has
loosened and turned. This can bind a key. The posts I would check would
be the top post of the low C key and both posts that suspend the D# and
C# keys.

Someone else suggested that there might be rust and that oiling might
free it up. This, too is a possibility. The best way to tell is to
remove both sets of keys. If the C# and D# keys is put together with
drift pins, this key combo is best taken apart by a repairman who has
the proper tools.

In either case, the problem is probably easily solved, won't take a
great deal of time to do and shouldn't be too terribly expensive.

On Sunday, April 13, 2003, at 04:13 PM, Jennifer Hunter wrote:

> Hi, I've rented an english horn from a local university for an
> upcoming concert.  It turns out that the low C and low C# keys stay
> closed when pressed.  The spring looks like it's seated properly. 
> Anyone have any ideas?  Thanks,
> Jenn Hunter