The Clarinet BBoard

The Clarinet BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Previous Message | Next Message

Re: Remove the Left Hand Eb/Ab Lever

Author: prigault
Date: 2021-12-05 01:25

This lever is very easy to remove (as well as to put in if you ever want it back) in less than a minute, without any trick.

I also did remove it upon purchasing my Festival a few years back, for exactly the reason you mention. I keep it in a bag in case I need it back or sell the instrument.

The case for that key is a matter a personal preference rather than an absolute need. I am sure a clarinetist can craft a passage requiring it (I can even think of some devious combinations myself, for example a trill in clarion D#/E long enough to want to use the left pinky to free the right ring finger in its movement), but I have not found it a requirement in real-life playing (at least not yet). And I can switch to my A and backup clarinets (two Buffet RCs that do not have it) without any thinking.

Speaking of adjustments, I would recommend having any new clarinet precisely adjusted to your hand configuration. Slight changes in the height of the rings, position of keys, and the distance to neighbouring fingers (especially the ring finger keys 5R and 7L) can make a very noticeable difference in ergonomy. If you buy a new professional clarinet, this kind of adjustment (as well as thoroughly checking pads and oiling all mechanisms) usually comes with it.

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics