 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: muzic_man@hotmail.com
Date: 2000-11-21 18:58
Hi People!
Ok, well, My Bass clarinet seems to be in need of an overhaul or repairs at least. Basically, the low notes are all blurred and squeak a lot but they never used to.
I did a test by holding all the keys down on the Bass Clarinet and shinning a tourch down the centre and i saw gaps in the pads where the light was getting though! I take it this isn't good sign! I have this on 3 pads. Also, the high register seems to have gone all squeaky! Anyone have any idea of the price this may cost (A ball park figure) Not literally. If not, then does anyone know an average price for an overhaul! I think it may be about time!
What do you think?
Thanxs!
S.Koumas
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Author: Ashley
Date: 2000-11-21 19:26
In wwandbw, bass clar overhauls are $600 for the professional one.. it doesnt give a standard overhaul price for bass, but its probably around $425, thats what it is for the standard bassoon overhaul (bass clar and bassoon professional overhauls are the same price). sounds pretty steep, i'd check w/ your repair shop.
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Author: Don Berger
Date: 2000-11-21 21:31
It sounds like to me that you don't really need a complete overhaul, unless the corks and many pads are torn up, not just leaking, where skillful adjustment by a bass player is all that is needed. I do mine and the simpler others, for school kids, perhaps Dave Spiegelthal will have some comments. Don
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Author: Kristen Denny
Date: 2000-11-21 21:51
I agree with Don. A complete overhaul is probably not what is needed. It sounds like
the horn just needs to be adjusted by getting rid of the slack or "work" in the keys that
causes the pads to not seal tightly. It is more difficult for these horns with large mechanisms
to stay in perfect adjustment. Just to have the keys adjusted shouldn't be more than $30.
However, if you have pads and such that need to be replaced, that can run you anywhere
between $10 to $20 per pad (depending on brand). Don't jump to conclusions on the
overhaul, and you might try to see if you can get at least two estimates from two different
repairmen. It never hurts to get a second opinion. You could save quite a bit in doing so!
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Author: S.Koumas
Date: 2000-11-21 21:57
Cool, thanxs!
Another question!
Anyone know of any good repairers in London England!?! I know it is a long shot!
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Author: graham
Date: 2000-11-22 07:32
Howarths will cost over £500 for a full overhaul and generally are not that cheap for repairs, but they are in central London (i.e. Chiltern Street near Baker Street) tel. 7935 2407.
If you don't mind going a bit out of town try John Myatt's at Hitchen, or Dawkes at Maidenhead. Likely to be similar price to Howarths. Bangham's shop in Cambridge would probably do it for you (call "Reeds Direct" on 01223 576391 and see if they do).
Personally, for clarinet repairs, I use Sue Redsull in Mitcham (South London) who is very reasonable and helpful and happy to do small jobs. Works from a private house and can be contacted on 8648 8861. I imagine she would also do a bass clarinet.
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Author: S.Koumas
Date: 2000-11-22 18:38
Hi again!
Thanxs Graham, I totally forgot about Howarths! I am always goin there, never mind. I just phoned them and they have asked me to bring it down so they can have a look, they said that mine is only a Minor job so it shouldn't be that expensive! Thank god, im only a student!
Anyone just one more question to Graham, you ever heard of a Clarinet repairer in Edgware called David Fingerhut?
Thanxs!
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Author: graham
Date: 2000-11-23 08:16
Yes I have heard of Fingerhut, who is often mentioned favourably, but i have no direct experience. He's not on the right side of town for me.
Out of nosey interest, are you a music college student, or another type of student who happens to be keen on the clarinet?
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Author: S.Koumas
Date: 2000-11-23 17:07
Hi Graham,
Yeah I study music at college but am not that good! I mostly enjoy playing. I heard about Fingerhut because my local music place sends all their instruments or just Clarinets to him to get fixed! I have been told he is good but the majority, but a few haven't liked his work!
Take care!
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