Klarinet Archive - Posting 000266.txt from 1996/06

From: Daron Bradford <jdbradfo@-----.EDU>
Subj: Bending the register key
Date: Mon, 17 Jun 1996 15:59:34 -0400

-- [ From: Daron Bradford * EMC.Ver #2.5.02 ] --

>Luuk van B. says bending a key can create invisible cracks.
>The point also arises that the bending will have to be
>done precisely in the plane at right angles to the pad. Considering the
>size and shape of the key, I think this would be very difficult to get
right.
>Roger Shilcock

I guess 'invisible cracks' with bending are a possible concern. I wonder if
the small amount of movement needed in this case would cause that, and there
shouldn't be a need for rebending. Also, the bending would be done on the
lower part of the key, and I don't see how that could affect the angle of
the pad. In any case, I definitely agree that it would best be done by a
knowledgeable repairman. My only objection to adding cork under the key to
lower the pad is that it's less comfortable, being higher under my thumb,
and students (esp. younger ones) are more likely to hit the key
inadvertantly.

(Reply to David Niethamer's comment)
My experience seems to suggest that an opening equal to the thickness of a
nickel is too much. My clarinets have less than a dime's thickness of
opening. That also helps to lower the pitch of high A-C. My mind is
definitely still open on this subject, however.

   
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