The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: sdr
Date: 2012-01-17 16:34
I have a lovely little Noblet C clarinet -- sweet voice, very good intonation -- with just one problem: The altissimo E does NOT want to speak. I can get the note out occasionally, but it is small and thin. Usually I just get a loud squeek. No problem below this note, F and F# above are also "challenging", but less so.
Any suggestions about this problem? A simple adjustment of pad or key, or some "magical" undercutting or other arcana to remedy this problem?
Tx.
-sdr
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Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2012-01-17 21:06
Have you checked the pad between the first and second fingers of the left hand? Sometimes a minute leak will only reveal itself under 'critical conditions.' Make sure there are no cracks in the pad bladder (usually a removal and visual inspection is best).
.................Paul Aviles
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2012-01-17 21:14
Along with the standard fingering for altissimo E, open the throat G# key and see if that helps. For the F, use the short fingering and open the throat A key. For the F#, play it as a lipped up upper register Bb (with the side key) with the Ab/Eb key open.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Hurstfarm
Date: 2012-01-18 17:40
On some instruments adding the RH G#/D# key is necessary to coax these notes into life (or the C/F key, depending on intonation).
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Author: Ed Palanker
Date: 2012-01-18 21:33
I have several E fingerings on my website, check it out and see if any of them work for you. If they do then there must be something wrong with the clarinet as to why the regular one doesn't work. Yes, using the pinky key in the RH makes the high notes speak easier on most clarinet. I assume the D and the Eb works for you? If you're having some trouble with the other high notes you may be voicing wrong producing a poor high A instead of an E. The most common problem of course would be a slight leak on one of the throat tone keys or side keys. Have it checked out. ESP eddiesclarinet.com
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