Klarinet Archive - Posting 001036.txt from 1998/07

From: <CmdrHerel@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] A and Bb
Date: Sat, 25 Jul 1998 13:12:27 -0400

In a message dated 98-07-25 12:14:10 EDT, Cheddar99@-----.com writes:

<< I have recently bought an R13 A clarinet. I've been comparing the tone of
it
to my R13 Bb, and I've come to the conclusion that they aren't the same. Is
this correct? My A is also a *lot* stuffier in the upper register and harder
to play. Are all these normal characteristics of an A, or did I get a bad
horn? >>

I'm looking forward to the responses to this.

When I first had to start playing A's about fifteen years ago, I found that
most of the instruments I borrowed did indeed play harder and "stuffier" than
my Bb.

However, when I was ready to purchase a new one (about ten years ago now) I
spent a lot of time going through horns to find one that had a clear,
beautiful sound and good intonation throughout all the registers.

At first the A did seem harder to play than my Bb, but over time by practicing
on the A a lot, I am no longer aware consciously of the difference.

Since it was first purchased, I've had the horn overhauled and an Opperman
barrel cut for it to really bring out the sound and make the key action light
and easy. I think that helped a lot too.

The only thing I notice now when I play it is that the reeds respond just a
hair harder on the A than the Bb. This only seems to matter when I have a
reed that is slightly too stiff on the Bb: Makes the switch to A noticeably
different. Oh, and I also have to drop the bell about an inch lower in my
knees... :)

So I'd say, just practice it a lot (and maybe work some different reeds than
your Bb). The same thing happens on bass and Eb too: They seem totally alien
at first, but the more you practice them, the less and less you notice the
difference and each becomes just another clarinet in your hands.

Teri Herel

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