Klarinet Archive - Posting 000057.txt from 1994/09

From: "Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.EDU>
Subj: Donut key
Date: Thu, 8 Sep 1994 20:02:54 -0400

Dick Williams asks about what he refers to as a donut key and he
specifically mentions that on European clarinets it is on the left
hand middle finger. He asks what the purpose the key is.

Dick, it is not clear if you are inquiring about Oehler system clarinets
of Boehm clarinets that are used in those European countries that
use such fingering systems.

I have two clarinets, both Boehm, and both have this key. Its purpose
is to allow for the interval g-b flat. The g is played as normal and
the raising of the middle finger allows the b-flat. It is particularly
valuable for tremulos. In theory it also allows for c-e flat but the
intonation is not very good in the lower register.

The fingering had its hey day in the 1930s when full Boehm instruments
were popular but it has effectively disappeared from general use.

====================================
Dan Leeson, Los Altos, California
(leeson@-----.edu)
(leeson@-----.edu)
(dnl2073@-----.edu)
Any of the above three addresses may be used. Take your pick.
====================================