Klarinet Archive - Posting 000588.txt from 1998/02

From: Roger Garrett <rgarrett@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: Bore Sizes
Date: Sun, 15 Feb 1998 12:31:08 -0500

On Sun, 15 Feb 1998 Karen D. wrote:

> I've heard that if you switch back and forth between two clarinets with
> different bore sizes that you can have problems with intonation. Is this true,
> and how big of a problem is it? I have a buffet R-13 that I use for
> performances and lessons, but I'm thinking about getting an E-11 for
> rehearsals and outdoor things so my R-13 doesn't get ruined. (I'm kind of
> prone to breaking insturments..) I'm asking this question because in the
> woodwind catalogue for winter 97-98 the clarinet chart says the buffet has a
> .574 bore and the E-11 is .573. Will this make any difference?

Karen,

While there may be a few who disagree, the difference you describe above
is very minimal. For those of us who shift between A and Bb clarinets
(also different bore sizes), intonation is an adjustment rather than a
problem. You just need to practice on both instruments so that you know
the differences by feel/ear rather than having to think about your
adjustments. The E-11 just needs to be as in good shape mechanically as
the R-13 - and try to find an instrument that has no "bad" notes on it as
some of them do. With a bit of shopping and trying from a variety of
E-11's you should be able to match up almost an exact feel. And it is a
very good idea to go this route if you choose not to purchase a Greenline
and use it for everything.

Roger Garrett