Author: AndrewHP
Date: 2022-09-05 08:08
Thank you to everyone, I took my Bb R13 clarinet to Meridian Winds and they found several leaking pads in the lower joint, a loose post, etc. I had them do an overhaul. While the instrument looks and feels like new, it only plays a little better than it did before the overhaul. Not particularly noticeable at all, in fact. I practiced on it exclusively for two weeks after the overhaul, which made no difference in its playability.
My curiosity piqued, I went out and tried a few brand new Bb clarinets of comparable quality, and they play similarly to my own now-reconditioned R13! In other words, resistant to play and squeeky in the altissimo notes. I haven't been able to locate any local A clarinets that I could play to see if for some reason I have an easy time playing A clarinets in general, or if my A is an especially good one. To add another point: I distinctly remember playing on my teacher's Bb clarinet when I took lessons, most recently in high school. She had a 1970s R13 that was so well used that the key finish was worn down to base metal where fingers touch. That old R13 played like butter; a beautiful, full sound, very easy to play.
I can only think of one explanation that fits my observations: I happened to pick a particularly good A clarinet, and that my Bb clarinet and other new Bb clarinets I tried are average.
Anyway, I'm having so much fun getting back into practice that I'm planning to take lessons again. Maybe I can sort this out in person with someone more knowledgeable than me. Thanks again for any more ideas!
Post Edited (2022-09-05 08:10)
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The Clarinet BBoard
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