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Re: Bass Clarinet Throat Tones

Author: Max S-D
Date: 2020-10-10 05:25

> How can I tell if I'm the problem or the instrument is the problem?

Possibly some of each.

How it could be you:

I haven't seen a Vito's register mechanism in years, but if it works at all like the Bundy I use as a backup, the register vent switches from the lower vent (Bb) to the upper vent (everything else) when the F key on the back of the instrument is closed. It might be possible that you are a little slow to get that thumb closing that pad, especially if you are still getting used to the distance your hand has to travel on the bass clarinet. Take a look at your movement there and see how you are doing. When I've been focusing on the Bb clarinet for a while and pick up the bass, the distance the hand has to roll from the A key to the rest of the instrument is pretty noticeable and takes me a few minutes to get calibrated to. This is if I do at least a few weeks of only the Bb clarinet.

How it could be the instrument:

Before you do that, it's also worth making sure that the instrument makes the switch between the two vents seamlessly. Without playing, hold down the register vent and nothing else. It will probably open the throat Bb vent. Then, while holding the register key, close the F pad. Does the vent switch immediately when the pad is closed? If there's too much play in that mechanism it could cause it to respond inconsistently. If it's adjusted poorly or been put out of alignment, it might cause it to respond wrong all the time.

Edit to add: if the register vent works a little differently, the advice still applies. Just do the mechanical and technique checks using whatever key it is that triggers the vent switch.

Post Edited (2020-10-10 05:26)

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