Klarinet Archive - Posting 000510.txt from 2004/06

From: Umar Goldeli <umar@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] Relocating keys..
Date: Wed, 30 Jun 2004 04:25:15 -0400

Greetings Klarinettists..

Due to certain issues with my right hand not functioning properly - I am
considering having the four "pinky keys" moved down towards the bell about
7mm so I can reach them easier (I can spread out my fingers but can't
bring them in - so G# for example is quite painful and moving between Bb
and G# is a very hit and miss affair due to the "wiring" of my hand).

I have a Selmer Recital Bb, and looking at the keys, it looks like this
shouldn't be too much of a problem as they are all connected to rods
and it is clear that they are not forged as a single piece...

To my (unprofessional) eye - it looks simply like a matter of somehow
detaching the keys, cleaning up the rod, moving them down and reattaching
them in their new position.

Several questions -

* What type of welding/soldering/brazing/connection method is usually used
to attach keys to rods? Can it be removed by using heat or must it be cut
out?

* Do clarinet repair technicians do this kind of stuff or should I be
looking elsewhere like perhaps a jeweller?

* What are the keys made of anyhow? Is it easy stuff to work with or a
disaster material like aluminium? (yes, I know it's not Al, but Al is the
worst thing I could think of that it could be made of :)

* Does anybody know of someone who could do this in Tokyo or Sydney?

* Has anybody done this before?

Thanks muchly!

//umar.

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