Klarinet Archive - Posting 001292.txt from 1998/10

From: Dave Lane <davelane@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Big clarinet
Date: Fri, 30 Oct 1998 03:23:24 -0500

Almost assuredly there is a problem with the register mechanism. Check to
see if both register pads are opening above the break, or if one is
sticking. This is the most common malfunction on the bass clarinet.

Best Regards

Dave Lane

At 10:29 AM 10/29/98 -0500, you wrote:
>In a message dated 10/28/98 11:49:16 PM Central Standard Time,
Barb073@-----.com
>writes:
>
><< : Barb073@-----.com
> Reply-to: klarinet@-----.org
> To: klarinet@-----.org
>
> Okay, all you bass clarinet gurus out there, I've got one for you. One
of my
> clarinet students brought what appeared to be a late-model Vito bass cl. to
> her lesson today. She could play from the lowest E to throat Bb with no
> problems, but the minute she crossed the break, nothing but squeaks and
> squawks.
> >>
>Crossing the break on the BCL separates the men...excuse me ladies.....the
>Adults from the Kids....OOPS sorry kids........
>
>I'll try again.....bass clar is easy to play in the chalumeau register, even
>with a crappy instrument. The upper register is much less stable. For this
>problem I would look at the horn for leaks, even minute leaks can cause the
>squeaks and squawks you a talking about. Try her with another bass that you
>know works to test this.
>
>Next, look at the embouchure...if she's biting, if her chin muscles are
>bunched up...guess what? A strong supported embouchure is essential for
>success.
>
>Next, look at her reeds. Most students play on reeds that are too soft.
>Whatever strength she uses on the Bb should also be used on the bass (this
>does depend on the mouthpiece facing). Soft reed - nice rich fluid low
>register, again squeaks in the high register.
>
>Next, look at the mouthpiece....a worn or uneven facing...YIKES
>
>So it could be any or all of the above. I'd really look at the instrument
>first. If it's leaky, no matter what you do with the other stuff, she'll
never
>be successful. I have tried many student model bass clarinets.....sorry
>Leblanc....but I never found a Vito I would ever want to give a
>student.......and nice Bndy tho.........
>
>-------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
Dave Lane
Lewisville, TX
davelane@-----.com

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