Production of clarinet barrel

Custom manufacturing

Modern playing trends and the increasing use of mouthpieces such as the Vandoren BD5 or the new Licostini models have increased the demands on clarinet intonation. However, most instruments are still designed for older types of mouthpieces, which can lead to intonation imbalances. One of the most effective ways to compensate for these differences is with a properly designed and precisely manufactured mouthpiece. clarinet barrel.

Why is the keg so important?

The barrel is the first link between the mouthpiece and the body of the clarinet. It transmits the vibration of the reed to the entire instrument and also significantly affects:

• • intonation throughout the range,
  • tone color,
  • response and articulation,
  • the overall feel of the instrument's resistance.

A very common misconception is that the pitch is determined only by the length of the barrel. In fact, it is the length of the barrel that determines the pitch. total internal volume, a combination of length and bore. This is why two barrels of the same length can have completely different intonation properties.

A properly designed barrel can stabilize the instrument, balance out problematic tones, and adapt the clarinet to modern mouthpieces and the individual needs of the player.

Diagnostics and testing

I have several test sets of barrels in different lengths and bore types available in the workshop. This allows me to determine exactly what shape and volume will work best:

• • a specific clarinet model,
  • used nozzle,
  • the individual player's style of play.

During diagnosis I look for:

• • intonation tendencies in individual registers,
  • tone stability,
  • resistance and feel when playing,
  • echo and articulation.

For faster orientation, you can fill in intonation table, which will help to more precisely target the necessary adjustments and speed up the entire process.

Materials and their character

The basic material is grenadill (Dalbergia melanoxylon), which provides:

• • sonorous, carrying tone,
  • easy articulation,
  • reliable response,
  • universal use for chamber, orchestral and solo playing.

Upon request, I also make barrels from other types of wood:

Rings and special modifications

On request it is possible to install:

• • gold-plated rings,
  • silver-plated rings,
  • nickel-plated rings,
  • carbon rings (novelty),
  • Cryo treatment of metal parts.

These elements can affect not only the appearance but also the stability of the keg.

Custom-made barrel manufacturing – procedure

In order to make a keg accurately, you must have with you:

• • nozzle,
  • clarinet, for which the barrel will be intended.

The model lines of the tools change over the years and it is necessary for the barrel to fit perfectly on the top pin without any unwanted play. That is why I fine-tune each piece individually.

The procedure includes:

1. 1. tool and nozzle diagnostics,
   2. selection of appropriate length and drilling,
   3. precise fitting of the barrel to the pin,
   4. fine-tuning intonation and response on the spot.
   5. comparison with the intonation table – it is advisable to fill it out in advance – Intonation chart download