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A key=Squeaks?

Author: Robyn
Date: 2004-11-30 21:58

Just a quick question:

I have noticed recently that my throat tone "A" is prone to squeaking up into the next partial. My A key also needs a new cork because the old one has compressed, making the key open too far. I am intending to get the cork fixed anyway, but could the key opening too far be the cause of the over-sensitivity of that note?

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Re: A key=Squeaks?

Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2004-11-30 22:15

Try the easy things first. Put on a new reed. Make sure the ligature is tight. Change mouthpieces. Use another barrel if you have one.

If you're pushing down hard on the throat A key, you might be forcing something open. It could be a non-airtight seal between the top joint tenon cork and the lower barrel socket, or between the mouthpiece and the barrel. If you're unlucky, there could be a small crack, perhaps in the barrel or the upper end of the top joint, that opens when the wood flexes due to the pressure.

I once got a boxwood barrel that had a knothole in it that leaked, producing squeaks everywhere. It cleared up when the hole was sealed.

Best regards.

Ken Shaw

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Re: A key=Squeaks?

Author: Robyn
Date: 2004-12-02 05:15

Thanks Ken, but I don't think any of those are the problem. My clarinet is otherwise in good condition and adjustment. If I was a beginner I might be inclined to blame it on the reed or the ligature, but I have been playing for a long time and am pretty happy with my setup. Thanks for the ideas though. I was just curious if this was a problem anybody knew about, and if it would be fixed once I replaced that cork. I guess the only way to know is to try it!

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Re: A key=Squeaks?

Author: Gordon (NZ)
Date: 2004-12-02 09:05

If you block the end of the upper section , finger C/G, and gently squirt a mouthful of air into the instrument, does the amount of air in your mouth reduce, indicating a leak?

I'm thinking of a leak around the register or thumb inserts.

There just are not that many things that could cause this for a good player, on only one note.

BTW I'm a little surprised your A key is opening too far. It should be restricted by the opening of the G# key, if the G# key has its cork intact.

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