The Clarinet BBoard

Re: Is this an air leak??

Author: ron b  Date:   2005-02-20 07:28 Most likely, Dano, either the register key or the A key is leaking, or somewhere else in the top joint. First, make sure all the screws are in place and tightened properly, neither too loose nor binding at all. Then, when you're sure the screws are behaving, try applying more pressure to the register key to determine if that stops the problem. If that does it, you know you need to fix it. If the G#(Ab) key isn't closing all the way, back off the A key adjustment screw a tiny bit so you have a slight amount of 'play' before it opens the G# key. If those two actions, which you can do yourself, don't prove to be the problem you'll need to look further -- leaking pads, weak springs, and so on until you find the culprit. Since this happened suddenly, I'm pretty sure a technician could locate the problem almost as quickly just by the 'feel' of things - like the bridge mechanism, where a little missing cork can cause major playing difficulties. Less likely would be a weak or broken spring. If you're not quite sure how those things are supposed to function, ask your local tech to have a look. The charge, if any, should be minimal. If you're familiar with the workings, a little glued paper shimming or layers of cellophane tape can act as a temporary measure until you get the instrument to the repair shop. And don't forget the old tried and true, but very temporary standby... the good ol' rubber band. Another method, if you have an 'assistant', is to blow a low note while your partner presses different keys (harder than usual) until you find the "bad" one. - rn b -

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