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The Perfect Clarinet Set-Up
by Benjamin Martinelli
The perfect set-up: essential for the clarinetist
It is no secret that clarinetists have to find "the perfect set-up" in order to feel comfortable with their instrument and to achieve the sound they want. We all know that the right type of reed and a good mouthpiece are essential. But what about barrels and bells? Are non-stock, "aftermarket" bells and barrels worth the extra time and money invested to obtain them?
As a professional clarinetist and co-founder of Levin Martinelli Woodwind Accessories, I have had the unique opportunity of being able to experiment with many clarinet accessories until I became completely satisfied. When I was first studying the clarinet, I often felt I was at the mercy of my instrument's weaknesses. I developed bad habits, such as shying away from "problem notes" on my clarinet. I didn't realize for a long time just how many problems could be solved by finding the right barrel/bell/mouthpiece combination. So, how do barrels and bells affect the sound of a clarinet?
The clarinet's barrel controls pitch, vibrancy and quality of tone. The barrel also has a large role in back-pressure, or resistance, felt by the player. Too much back-pressure and the clarinet starts to feel "stuffy." Some players may want less resistance from their barrel to get more of a "free-blowing" feel. The role of the bell is to focus, resonate and control the sound and intonation of the clarinet when the full length of the instrument is being used, especially in middle B and low E.
Clarinetists now have many new options when it comes to barrels and bells. The traditional, stock, Grenadilla barrel and bell with metal rings may not be the budding clarinetist's best choice, let alone the best option for the more experienced player. These days, aftermarket bells and barrels are being made from specially selected woods that complement a clarinet, not just complete it. Using woods like Cocobolo and African Blackwood-both lustrous hardwoods with superior tonal qualities--adds a warm vibrancy to a clarinet's sound. Many new barrels and bells are also available without metal rings that dampen the natural vibrations of the wood.
Clarinetists benefit greatly from trying out different reed and mouthpiece combinations, and now that special attention has been given to the perfecting of the clarinet barrel and bell, students and professionals alike can experience their own "perfect set-up."
About the Author
Benjamin Martinelli
Clarinetist/ Craftsman
Levin Martinelli woodwind accessories, levinmartinelli.com
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