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Re: B not always speaking properly

Author: Chris P
Date: 2011-12-21 14:35

Be sure when you release RH1, the Bb and C pads (the two small pad cups on the top joint) are closing properly. And check you're not accidentally nudging the RH1 fingerplate as that can give you an unwanted C or Bb where you'd otherwise want a B or A.

The Bb and C pads will 'blip' when going from E to A or B - that's normal on conservatoire systems and you'll have to be precise when lifting your right hand fingers off to prevent getting 'blips'. Sometimes they can't be avoided (even seasoned pros still get them), but they're still something that has to be worked on.

As for the B not speaking well, it sounds like the C key pad may not be closing along with the Bb pad. The C key has two adjusting screws on it, the one nearest the bend regulates it with the LH2 fingerplate and the one right at the end of the bar regulates it with the Bb key - by what you've described it seems it could be this end one that isn't in adjustment.

Check the closure of both the Bb and C pads with a cigarette paper - both should close at the same pressure when the thumb is on the thumbplate. If the C pad isn't closing (you'll feel little or no drag on the cigarette paper), then adjust the lowest of the two screws on the C key until both close with the same pressure when the thumbplate is held down.

Also check the closure of the Bb pad along with LH3 (without the thumbplate being held down). Both LH3 and the Bb pads should close together. Likewise with LH2 and the C pad.

Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010

Independent Woodwind Repair Specialist
Oboes, Clarinets and Saxes
NOT A MEMBER OF N.A.M.I.R.

The opinions I express are my own.

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Author

Date

B not always speaking properly new

claire70

2011-12-21 14:00

Re: B not always speaking properly new

Chris P

2011-12-21 14:35