 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Highlander
Date: 2020-09-10 22:35
I have a original model Leblanc Opus which I'm very fond of, but the ring keys are worn and corroded (I should have been wiping them more I guess) and I'd much rather replace them than buy a new instrument (obviously). The parts are no longer available from Conn/Selmer/Leblanc - any suggestions on whether it's possible to get replacements? I'm sure these are the parts that have been in highest demand over the years.
wedinger@optimum.net
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2020-09-10 22:52
The plating wasn't great on them and they can corrode like anything depending on the player's skin pH. I've even seen an Opus where the RH ring keys were all ground out on the insides so they didn't catch on the tonehole chimneys and left with sharp burrs on the top side which all needed burnishing smooth.
I doubt you can find donor keys except from either a scrap Concerto, Infinite or another Opus - your best bet is having the ring keys rebuilt by having the existing rings ground flat and new tops machined from nickel silver rod hard soldered to the rings, then having it all silver plated (to a minimum of 25 microns) to match the rest of the keywork after it's all been tidied up. Either that or have the ring keys from a Vito, Normandy or Noblet fitted and have the domed pad cup and arm from the Opus removed and fitted to the new ring keys to match the style, then have them silver plated.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Morrie Backun
Date: 2020-09-11 18:51
Hello
If you email me directly I may be able to help you with Leblanc original key replacements.
All good wishes
Morrie Backun
Backun Musical Services Ltd.
Morrie@backunmusical.com
Morrie Backun
Backun Musical Services
604-205-5770
morrie@backunmusical.com
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