Klarinet Archive - Posting 000624.txt from 1998/07

From: Ed Maurey <edsshop@-----.ca>
Subj: [kl] sliver keys and improvements
Date: Mon, 20 Jul 1998 20:57:31 -0400

Firstly, somebody asked if filling the sliver key hole with epoxy flush
with the bore effected intonation or tone: Not on straight tone holed
Selmers. Perhaps, on undercut holes it would, but I rather doubt it.
Secondly, I have another accoustical improvement I think is worthy.
Years ago I was retuning an old C clarinet that was hideously flat. I
was able to sharpen all the notes but the bottom E/B. After scratching
my head I remembered seeing an old clarinet with a hole drilled in the
bell. Being a machinist figured I could manage the surgery. After a
little experimentation a 1/4" hole down about 1 1/4" from the top of
the bell seemed to sharpen the note just right. HOWEVER, the tone of
both E and particularly B was greatly improved. That was years ago. I
have since developed a variation on that theme. On other C clarinets
that are in tune I use a standard Bb/A bell with a 5/16" hole drilled
1 1/4" from the top. It's a real improvement for the bottom three notes
in both registers. That's [count them] a six note improvement.
Now, I ask you, my fellow Sneezyists, why don't clarinet manufactuers
put longer bells on their Bb/A instruments with appropriate vent holes?
I know damned well you'd love the results?
In passing, perhaps some of us old farts remember playing "Full
Boehms". That low Eb really helped the middle B. Bottom notes love
venting.
Ed Maurey

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