 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: John Dean
Date: 1999-05-02 10:49
I have just acquired a 1929 Selmer in Albert system. After 45 years of trying to master the Boehm system I am having difficulties with sound production - squeaks etc- just like a beginner. Can anyone give me some tips. There seems to be quite a different stretch in the right hand and the low notes are difficult but very rich in sonority.Altissimo is solid. The clarinet itself is in impeccable condition so I can't blame it's mechanics!
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Author: Eric Elder
Date: 1999-05-03 06:43
You're problems may stem from trying to play a bore much different than the one you are used to. Alberts were generally made with a much larger and less focusing bore than (especially today's) Boehms are. If you are a "legit" clarinetist, this may hurt a little bit, but . . . To get out the notes and to build up the big, fat tone that an instrument like yours is capable of, try relaxing your embouchure and definitely open up your throat. The latter is of extreme importance. In the rather descriptive words of my mentor, the great jazz clarinetist Chuck Hedges, "open your throat until you think you are going to [become sick]." The difficulty here can be in retaining adequate breath support. . . and in keeping your lunch down!!
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Author: paul
Date: 1999-05-03 16:16
I'll keep this pointer in mind for my narrow bored contemporary Buffet. Perhaps it may help solve some of my problems in the altissimo. The message is so simple, even I can "get it".
Thanks
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Author: John Dean
Date: 1999-05-04 18:34
Many thanks for the tip. I usually play an R13 so I suppose the bore difference will be a significant factor. Also lucky I don't eat too much lunch!
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Author: Dee
Date: 1999-05-04 20:42
Here are several other things to think about.
1. Even if in excellent condition, there may be minor leaks if the spring tension is too much. Stiff springs make it difficult to get an adequate seal. I've sometimes gotten an instrument back from the repair tech with this problem. He had much larger, stronger hands than mine so what was fine for him, leaked for me.
2. Due to the different spread, you may be a little off on covering the holes sometime. Time should cure this.
3. The mouthpiece may be different than what you are used to. I had a difficult time with mine until I used a harder reed.
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Author: JohnDean
Date: 1999-05-11 21:31
Many thanks Dee. Iam sure it is a combination of the factors you mention especially the spread and not covering properly.I now appreciate the playing of those early jazzmen who are so fluent on these Alberts!
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