Klarinet Archive - Posting 000844.txt from 2002/04

From: w7wright@-----.net (William Wright)
Subj: Re: [kl] Rossi clarinets & barrels
Date: Tue, 30 Apr 2002 13:36:32 -0400

<><> but I believe that the way Rossi makes his clarinets and barrels,
no other standard barrel will work This is because on his clarinets,
the barrel is quite a bit shorter and there is more length to the body
of the clarinet. In other words, more length above the register key.

This is exactly what Mr. Rossi explained to me at one of the
ClarinetFest booths a few years back.

<><> I no longer make barrels for clients unless I can hand fit it to
the clarinet AND THE MOUTHPIECE with which it will be used. Anything
less is a crap shoot. I'd be very interested in comments with others
who have worked in this area.

I recently ordered a barrel from Morrie Backun, whom several people have
recommended on this list. His approach was to ask me for very precise
measurements (made by a technician with a full set of tools, not by
myself). The understanding is that if it doesn't fit, or if the
intonation or tone isn't what I want, I can send the barrel back to him
for replacement or further detail work.

If you wish, I'll give you a further report when it arrives. Keep in
mind that I'm experimenting with a spherical bore in the barrel to go
along with my spherical bell. My experience won't be 'typical' of what
most clarinetists want.

Cheers,
Bill

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