Klarinet Archive - Posting 000073.txt from 2001/11

From: "Benjamin Maas" <benmaas@-----.com>
Subj: RE: [kl] Bass Clarinet - Double Register Key?
Date: Thu, 1 Nov 2001 23:26:14 -0500

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Robert Moody [mailto:LetsReason@-----.com]

> Mike Barnes, who still can't get past the MIME-content issue from his
> work...where he reads the List posting, asked me to post this question.
>
> What is the double-register key for the bass clarinet? What are the
> benefits and do you think it is worth the couple hundred extra as it sells
> on the Leblanc models? How does it work? Etc.
>
> Give us...er...HIM the works (as I already know everything ;-) ).
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Robert & Mike

Double octave keys work differently on different instruments... However,
they all work off of the same basic idea. That is, when you hit a certain
note on the horn, the octave key that opens switches from one positioned
near the neck to one that is closer to the thumb key. The distance is
usually a couple inches and there is some sort of a "rocking" mechanism to
make it work.

The advantage of having this is better intonation in the longer fingered
upper register notes and also better response on those notes. SO... to
answer your question: YES, it is quite definitely worth the extra cash to
have it. I've played the single octave-key Leblancs and (in my opinion)
they are a disaster of an instrument. The double octave key ones are
useable, but I personally still prefer a good Buffet or Selmer.

--Ben

Benjamin Maas
Freelance Clarinetist and Recording Engineer
Lowithgeles, CA
benmaas@-----.com
http://www.fifthcircle.com

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