Clarinet squeaking...?!
Question: Clarinet squeaking!.!.!.!?
For about two weeks now, my clarinet has had a problem when I've been playing my lower notes, starting with my C!. It keeps on sounding like I'm going into my upper register!.!. I think it may be a problem with the pads on the keys, but I'm not sure!. I tried replacing my reed, tightening it!.!. Might it have something to do with the weather!? I live in Central Texas, so the weather is always a bit iffy!.!.
I have a Buffet E-11 Bb Clarinet, and use Vandoren 2 1/2" reeds!.
I've never had this problem before, and I have a performance this Friday, and am VERY concerned!.Www@Enter-QA@Com
I have a Buffet E-11 Bb Clarinet, and use Vandoren 2 1/2" reeds!.
I've never had this problem before, and I have a performance this Friday, and am VERY concerned!.Www@Enter-QA@Com
Answers:
If the problem starts when you finger the C (holes covered by fingers 1-2-3 of the left hand) then the problem is probably near or more likely above that 3rd finger!.
So finger and play the C with the left hand like you normally do and with a right hand finger or the thumb press down(while still playing the note C) on each of the pad cups one at a time starting with the G# key (the one that is played with the left hand little finger)!. Go up the horn pressing on each cup including the right hand trill keys and the thumb register key!.
If one of the keys or pads is not closing properly or is leaking then you should be able to isolate where the problem is located!. Then check to see if it is the pad that is the problem or perhaps the key is sticking or rubbing on something that keeps it from closing fully!. It could also be bent slightly which would keep it from closing properly!. You should be able to eyeball these things once you know where the problem lies!.
One other thing to check!. The A key (the little short one just above the first finger hole) that is played with the side of the first joint of the left hand index finger should have just a little bit of play in it just before it raises the key it is under (the Ab/G# key)!. Many times players will tighten the adjustment screw on the Ab key so that both the A and Ab keys move at the same time when the A key is pressed!. The A key should move up just slightly before it lifts the Ab key!. If it doesn't work this way then back the adjustment screw off just a little until it does!.
If working from C up doesn't find the problem then you may need someone to help you as you finger down (Bb - A - G, etc) and let them press pads down to see if there is a leak!.
I am making the assumption that you are using the proper embouchure and not putting extra pressure on the reed (biting) which could also cause it to squeak!. Make sure the reed is adjusted evenly on all sides and around the tip of the mouthpiece table!.
If all else fails take it to a repairman if there is time!.
Good luck and hope you find the problem in time!.
Musician, composer, clarinetist, director!.
Www@Enter-QA@Com
So finger and play the C with the left hand like you normally do and with a right hand finger or the thumb press down(while still playing the note C) on each of the pad cups one at a time starting with the G# key (the one that is played with the left hand little finger)!. Go up the horn pressing on each cup including the right hand trill keys and the thumb register key!.
If one of the keys or pads is not closing properly or is leaking then you should be able to isolate where the problem is located!. Then check to see if it is the pad that is the problem or perhaps the key is sticking or rubbing on something that keeps it from closing fully!. It could also be bent slightly which would keep it from closing properly!. You should be able to eyeball these things once you know where the problem lies!.
One other thing to check!. The A key (the little short one just above the first finger hole) that is played with the side of the first joint of the left hand index finger should have just a little bit of play in it just before it raises the key it is under (the Ab/G# key)!. Many times players will tighten the adjustment screw on the Ab key so that both the A and Ab keys move at the same time when the A key is pressed!. The A key should move up just slightly before it lifts the Ab key!. If it doesn't work this way then back the adjustment screw off just a little until it does!.
If working from C up doesn't find the problem then you may need someone to help you as you finger down (Bb - A - G, etc) and let them press pads down to see if there is a leak!.
I am making the assumption that you are using the proper embouchure and not putting extra pressure on the reed (biting) which could also cause it to squeak!. Make sure the reed is adjusted evenly on all sides and around the tip of the mouthpiece table!.
If all else fails take it to a repairman if there is time!.
Good luck and hope you find the problem in time!.
Musician, composer, clarinetist, director!.
Www@Enter-QA@Com
Take it to the shop and ask them to replace the pad on the register key!. This exact thing happened to me before!. You can also try taking a dollar bill and sliding it in between the pad and the hole!. Sometimes that works, sometimes it doesn't, but you need the pad replaced!. Www@Enter-QA@Com
mine does that some times!. Try blowing hot air into it
If not, try to to go see an instrument repair person and see what they say!. There could possibly be a screw loose which is causing this to happen!. Www@Enter-QA@Com
If not, try to to go see an instrument repair person and see what they say!. There could possibly be a screw loose which is causing this to happen!. Www@Enter-QA@Com