 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: LJBraaten
Date: 2011-08-12 21:15
I have noticed several threads in the past weeks regarding not being able to play high notes, sometimes after a break from playing, or on a beginners level clarinet.
I have been having the same problem after taking up the clarinet after a long break. I have tried different reeds, working on air control, embouchure, etc., finally just resolved that it was me (I could play them before on the same clarinet, and the clarinet had just had a major overhaul). More annoying however, was my inability, at times, to play Eb (top space on the staff). At times it played perfectly well, at other times, especially on faster pieces when there was nearly an octave jump, it refused to play. I pulled my hair out until a week ago when I carefully inspected the Eb key and its valve function. I noticed that when I pushed the key all the way down that it hit the key below it (C#), and cracked open that valve. I took it back to the shop that overhauled it, and they said on a better clarinet there would be a stop to prevent that from happening. They solved the problem by putting thicker cork on the bottom of the key, which made it stop on a post at the top of the key near the pivot (they said it may eventually pack down again, and try to go light on the key). When I got home, not only did the Eb play more easily, but the high notes as well. Then it dawned on me: D-G (above the staff) all use that same "Eb" key, and if pressed too hard, I had the same leaky valve problem. I can't guarantee that this is that same thing that is happening to others, but it might be worth a look.
BTW, before I got it to the shop I was able to "fix" the issue by putting a small length of twisty wire around the key so that it stopped at the post. That wire is now in my case in the event it happens again.
[Mr.] Laurie
Laurie (he/him)
Post Edited (2011-08-13 04:17)
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Author: CarlT
Date: 2011-08-13 01:04
Thanks, Laurie, for sharing. After checking, not a problem on mine, but I always check such findings to see if I might have the same or similar problem. You just may have saved some other poor soul some grief though.
I tell other clarinet people I know what a wonderful resource this BB is. I always say it's my surrogate teacher, for I believe that I've learned as much or more here than from any of my teachers, although it's certainly nice to have both.
Carl
CarlT
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