Klarinet Archive - Posting 001077.txt from 1999/07

From: "O'Neile & Fisher" <redcedar@-----.au>
Subj: Re: [kl] Buffet Clarinet - Specification Pitch
Date: Tue, 27 Jul 1999 02:17:28 -0400

Thank you for the suggestions. I was aware of the limitations/influences on
pitch that were mentioned. I figured that if a manufacturer was prepared to
cite specifications of pitch for various model clarinets, then logically,
one could expect that such specifications were capable of being tested. My
dealer tells me he has a tuning meter, so, sight unseen, I expect it is
possible to "test" for pitch within the various limitations you expressed,
although I've yet to confront the experience.
More interestingly for me, what has come out of this exercise, is that I may
not have acquired the Buffet model that I thought I had, despite the detail
on the sale documents. This is still subject to verification.
Michael

At 02:08 PM 26/7/99 EDT, you wrote:
>Regarding the discussion of designated pitch of a model of clarinet:
>
>I believe that very few clarinetists realize the effect of their mouthpiece,
>reed, barrel, embouchure, and breath support have on pitch level.
>
>For example, no two mouthpieces tune the same way, even the same model by the
>same manufacturer or mouthpiece technician. I can make a sharp clarinet
>lower, or a low clarinet sharper with judicious selection of mouthpiece. Few
>people realize this!
>
>Pitch level designations on different "models" are relative all other things
>being equal.
>
>Good tuning can only be acheived by carefully matching clarinet, barrel and
>mouthpiece.....and only then if embouchure is developed, reed is not too soft
>for mouthpiece facing, and breath is supported.
>
>"Having the clarinet tested" is an absurd idea. By whom, with what, and for
>what purpose?
>
>Can someone else test your instrument using your embouchure and your
>diaphragm support?
>
>Some suggestions:
>
>1. Work with a tuner to UNDERSTAND the pitch level and variations of your
>clarinet
>2. Understand the pitch level(s) of the various groups in which you play
>
>If you find that you cannot accomodate the pitch level of the group you are
>playing with, consult a teacherand/or a repair technician (such as Francois
>Kloc or Mr. Swiney), and/or a mouthpiece technician.
>
>Only with work and understanding can excellent intonation happen. It will not
>happen overnight. The horn cannot "be tuned at the factory".
>
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