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Re: more resistance after overhaul?

Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2008-01-28 14:26

Try the "seal test." Ever suck on an empty coke bottle and seal the end up with your lips? Upon release, you'll get a "POP." Same can be done with a correctly adjusted clarinet. For the top joint, cover all the holes, hold your right palm against the bottom (may need to moisten palm a little with saliva), then suck on the end. Ideally you should feel the same tug on your lips before release. Then you can reverse the air with the same posture and you should hear no air leaking (well, with enough blowing pressure you can start to lift the "A" key or a side trill but it should take a bit of effort).

Now for the bottom joint, do the same thing only you have to hold the Right E/B key down and block the bottom with your Right palm. When you do the blowing part, the "Ab/Eb" key may pop open.....it is an art to have the right amount of spring tension on this key to have a solid sound and yet not need too much force when playing.

As long as you have good seal with these tests, the horn SHOULD play well (of course there is also the "spring tension/key action" issues that should allow for comfortable and swift movement.

.................Paul Aviles

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