Klarinet Archive - Posting 000100.txt from 1994/08

From: Fred McKenzie <Frederick.M.McKenzie.1@-----.GOV>
Subj: Re: Info? on metal clarinet
Date: Fri, 26 Aug 1994 09:39:23 -0400

RE>Info? on metal clarinet
From: "Gerry G. Gramozis" <GGGTDJ@-----.COM>
I was given a B-flat, metal clarinet as a present. The inscriptions on
the bell read "Pedler, Hossier, Elkhart-Ind"

Gerry-

I also have an old metal clarinet, which I believe dates from the mid-40's.
Mine has different inscriptions than yours, but I forget the details.

Metal clarinets were apparently popular in the 30's and 40's. To this day,
many band directors will rebel at the prospect of their use. I have heard that
they have a "bright" sound that sticks out like a sore thumb. However, mine
sounds fairly normal, except that it can't be played in tune.

There is only the one adjustment where the barrel would be on a wooden
clarinet. If mine is adjusted for middle-C, then the throat tones are WAY off.
I suspect many were built for a different standard than A=440, and that is the
REAL reason no one wants them in modern bands!

I wonder if anyone has a metal clarinet that is reasonably in tune throughout
its range? Surely some were built for A@-----.

Fred