Klarinet Archive - Posting 000218.txt from 2011/08

From: K S <krsmav@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Selmer Bass Clarinet Difficulty
Date: Sun, 28 Aug 2011 12:30:55 -0400

Ron -

Your problem is almost certainly in the register mechanism. To check,
you need the help of a friend.

If you have the non-automatic double register keys, play 4th-line D
(with the key for the lower vent) and slur up to 4th-space E,
switching to the upper vent key. If the E is bad, have your friend
press down on the pad for the lower key to make sure it's fully
closed. If, as I suspect, the lower pad is not closing tight, a drop
of key oil, or setting the spring tighter, may solve the problem.

If you have the automatic mechanism, play 4th-line D and raise your
right ring finger very slowly for 4th-space E. If the E is bad, have
your friend press down on the lower pad. If there is a third pad for
the throat Bb, have your friend press on it,too. The automatic
mechanism depends on counterbalancing springs and is notorious for
getting out of adjustment. In particular, the lower pad often hangs
slightly open. If the sliding surfaces have cork buffers, a very
small amount of cork grease will often cure the hanging, and once
again, key oil at the moving spots can help.

Adjusting the automatic register mechanism, and swedging loose rods,
are not a jobs for the beginner. You need to go to a repair shop, and
even a bass repair specialist . Almost all the major players go to
Mark Jacobi in Philadelphia, but he's expensive, has a long waiting
list and, it seems, no website or email. Mark Jacobi Clarinet Repairs,
1930 Chestnut Street #1708, Philadelphia, PA, (215) 569-8739.

Ed Palanker, the bass clarinetist in Baltimore, says that he uses
Rodger Young. http://www.tonedesign.com/

Hammer Woodwinds in Philadelphia has had good recommendations.
http://www.saxontheweb.net/vbulletin/showthread.php?47896-HAMMER-WOODWINDS-Philly-area&p=392073#post392073

Kristin Bertrand in NYC is widely admired.
http://www.woodwindworkshop.com/ She specializes in Buffet, but
certainly could adjust your Selmer.

Finally, older Selmer BCs can be great players. If you ever want to
sell yours, let me know first.

Ken Shaw
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