Klarinet Archive - Posting 000085.txt from 2000/07

From: Richard Bush <rbushidioglot@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] extra keys & fingering question
Date: Mon, 3 Jul 2000 12:19:24 -0400

Yes, one can get use to differences, but if the spring tensions on an instrument are
wildly different and inconsistent, the player can develop bad habits, play with
greater tension in his fingers, exhibit tension in hands, wrists and arms. While
certain minimum spring tension is needed to keep closed keys closed so they don't blow
open when playing an instrument very loud, and open keys need enough tension so they
don't dribble or bounce when returning to their open position, many instruments (even
when new and as they come from the maker) have spring tensions that are much heavier
than needed or what they should be. Also, spring tensions are often very inconsistent.
As I said, this will translate into uneven scales and can lead to faulty technique.

Roger Shilcock wrote:

> In the meantime. though, one can get used to the differences....
> Roger S.
>
> On Mon, 3 Jul 2000, Richard Bush wrote:
>
> > Date: Mon, 03 Jul 2000 09:50:31 -0600
> > From: Richard Bush <rbushidioglot@-----.com>
> > Reply-To: klarinet@-----.org
> > To: klarinet@-----.org
> > Subject: Re: [kl] extra keys & fingering question
> >
> > Several factors effect the "feel" or perceived speed of the side keys which are
> > sprung with flat or leaf springs. They are:
> > 1) The position of the leaf spring on the underside of the key relative to the
> > fulcrum and the point of purchase (pivoting point and the touch part where the
> > key is touched by the finger).
> > 2) The material of the leaf spring (blued steel, bronze phosphor, gold alloy,
> > etc.)
> > 3) The dimensions of the spring, its thickness, width and length.
> > 4) The shape or bend of the spring.
> > 5) The bearing points of both the spring end where it makes contact with the
> > instrument body and the trough or slotted guide along which it slides.
> > 6) The possible addition of lubrication or grease to decrease friction at the
> > bearing point.
> > 7) The freedom or precision of the pivot point or fulcrum of the key (does it
> > bind, or hinge freely? Is it free without being sloppy in its fit over the rod
> > screw and, laterally, between the key posts?)
> >
> > A qualified repairman can change many of the above to alter the pressure required
> > to operate the key and affect a speed change.
> >
> > Roger Shilcock wrote:
> >

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