Klarinet Archive - Posting 000033.txt from 1996/05

From: "George T. Ayton" <GTAYTON@-----.CA>
Subj: Re: Special vent key
Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 11:28:23 -0400

On Wed, 1 May 1996, Richard Lahrson wrote:

> In a Leblanc brochure I noted that their Prestige model can be ordered
> with a special vent key at the bottom of the horn that opens with another
> lever for the right hand pinky.
snip
> Anyone tried or own a clarinet like this?

No Richard..but I offer this:
I got an old bell for my Bb and made a series of diagonal fine blade saw
cuts.(straight). then the bell was pieced together again with 180 degree
shifts per cut. then scotch taped. Then played. It did exactly what I
predicted: played>every< note possible in a forward direction for easier
miking in jazz and concert solo recording etc. Also it played a little
sharp on E and B. No problem. The bell was simply dropped a quarter inch
and woila! a curvy, front facing bell. My repairman friend was so
impressed, he offered to glue and epoxy and smooth it! Now it looks good
too.I don't know why a clar in not naturally built this way..
Try the Ayton bell..you may like.