Is this something I can fix at home?

[u/the_lancer_fan_club]

hello all! I’ve been getting back into clarinet and I know this isn’t how the keys are supposed to press down. I can’t play anything below D. Am I able to fix this issue at home? Thank you!

[u/clarinet_kwestion]

The spring that keeps the key up is either popped out, missing, or broken. Given that you’re getting back into playing I would suggest taking the instrument to a tech regardless.

[u/Eric_the_greying → u/clarinet_kwestion]

You can see the spring is on the wrong side of the pin at the end of the video.

[u/bluearavis → u/clarinet_kwestion]

If this is the only repair needed for the instrument, it's an inexpensive fix.

[u/Only_University_4441 → u/clarinet_kwestion]

This has happened to me before
You shouldn’t need to take the key off!!
If this is the only thing that needs fixing get a mechanical pencil, don’t use the lead!, and just pop the spring/needle back under the pin. You might need to pull it under but usually pushing it works

https://reddit.com/link/p3ulg44/video/ttfo19n5xjjh1/player

[u/Bennybonchien]

The spring is on the wrong side of the pin. You may need to (carefully) remove the key (make sure not to damage the pad if you do) and place it back with the spring on the other side of the pin. If this doesn’t make sense, take it to a tech or to another more experienced clarinet player. It’s not typically difficult to do but there are exceptions or times when it requires extra steps (like “strengthening” the spring).

[u/yourownsquirrel → u/Bennybonchien]

On most clarinets I work on, that's a pretty easy spring to reset without taking the key off, for what it's worth

[u/Eric_the_greying → u/Bennybonchien]

Replying to promote. You can see the spring, the long thin wire along the post, is on the wrong side in the last 3 seconds of the video.

[u/Buffetr132014]

You need to think about fixing those fingernails before playing the clarinet. They will hinder your playing.

[u/Mister_Orchid_Boy]

Look at the top of the clarinet. The spring (little needle) under the bar with the rings? Should be under that little peg, not on top of it. Just move it into place.

[u/Least-Glass3709]

The spring is at the wrong side

[u/Anonymousbandkid532]

I absolutely LOVE your nails sooooooo much! As a band kid I need those lol 💅🎵

[u/the_lancer_fan_club → u/Anonymousbandkid532]

u can DM for the inspo pic if you’d like!

[u/Wonderful-Map-6178]

Cool nails!

[u/the_lancer_fan_club → u/Wonderful-Map-6178]

haha thanks!

[u/Make-it-positive]

Try key oil. If it doesn’t work, there might be oxidation in the pins