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German system tuning

Author: Micke Isotalo ★2017
Date: 2016-06-17 11:08

I'm currently exploring the German/Austrian system and have so far tried five different models from various makers (from mid to high price). Since I've played on Reform Boehms for years, I'm used to the more relaxed German embouchure. German clarinets are usually tuned to a=443 and I play in a=442, but a deviation of just one Herz should not in itself destroy the internal tuning of an instrument.

So far the following tuning issues have been common on all these instruments:

1) Despite the low e/f correction key these notes are still flat (around 7-14 cents). Probably at least the low e correction tonehole can't be moved further upwards, since it would otherwise come too close to the connection between the bell and the lower joint. But it that's the problem, why can't the bell just be made longer and the lower joint shorter?

2) Usually low f and f# are also very flat.

3) Also the throat tones, especially g#-Bb are really flat (some notes in some cases up to 25-30 cents). Since at least g# and a are lacking a double function concerning registers, wouldn't it be easy to make them spot on in tune?

Usually the whole second register have been well in tune and the altissimo can be played more relaxed than I've been used to. So my problems are in the first register.

I know some here are playing German system clarinets, or have been playing. What's your experience? May I bee doing something wrongly?

Thanks in advance.

Micke Isotalo

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German system tuning new

Micke Isotalo

2016-06-17 11:08