Classic and Dolonite Plastic Tenor Recorder Spares

The classic tenor is no longer manufactured but we are able to supply replacement keys, replacement key pads and replacement saddle and spring units.

We provide below instructions for fitting these parts.

We can also service and replace single brass keys for the older Dolonite tenors.

The Classic tenor was one of the first plastic tenors to come with a double C / C# key system. This system is designed to be maintained by the user. You can replace either of the keys, replace the key pads (which, over time, will wear) and replace the unit which screws into the body of the foot section and to which the keys clip. The left and right keys are not interchangeable and when ordering a single key place the foot section on a flat surface so that you are looking down the instrument from the socket to the flared bell and denote the key on the left-hand side, the C key, and the key on the right-hand side, the C# key. If you check the finger holes you will see that the C# hole is about twice the size of the other hole.

If you play the recorder then you will know that the C# key is the single key depressed with the bottom finger to give the note bottom C# while the C key is only depressed when both keys are depressed together, in particular for the note bottom C.

When ordering replacement parts, check that the saddle unit on your present instrument is still in good condition. The screw that attaches the unit to the body passes between two leaf springs, which form part of the unit moulding. Both springs must be present and working as they return the key to its open position after use. Similarly, for the keys to clip to the saddle unit, the short metal rod or dowel that passes transversely across the unit should be present, shiny and clean. If the metal rod is missing or if either spring has broken off or lost its 'springiness' you should replace the whole unit. The saddle unit is sent with fitted metal dowel and the screw needed to attach it to the body.

When you receive the replacement unit, remove the old unit (if it is still attached) by removing any keys still attached to the saddle and then unscrewing the screw that attaches the saddle to the bell section body. Place the new unit so that the springs lie towards the finger holes and the metal dowel lies on the other side of the screw from the finger holes. Using a small screwdriver, screw the unit to the body tightly enough to prevent movement.

To replace the pads on the keys, prise away the old pad and running a very small amount of super glue or contact adhesive into the well where the key pad seats, press the pad into place. Do not use too much glue as this may spread out over the pad surface.

The keys clip onto the saddle unit with the notch clipping onto the metal dowel. When both keys are in their correct position, the notches on each key lie next to each other towards the middle of the metal dowel. The keys should move freely and should not squeak. Any squeak can be eliminated with a little oil or grease.

Nova Knick Tenor

The Nova Tenor recorder can be supplied with a knick (or bent) head (see head on the left). Those who have no problem with the reach or stretch on standard tenors may wish to purchase the standard straight headed model (see head on the right). Our standard tenor is among one of the more comfortable straight tenors available. However, those who have problems with turning the wrist when trying to reach the holes with the right hand should find the knick tenor more comfortable.

Fitting a Nova Bass or Tenor Thumbrest

The Nova Bass and Nova Tenor recorders are supplied with adjustable thumbrests. The best way of attaching the rest is to use the screws supplied with it choosing the most appropriate pair of locating screw holes already moulded into the body of the instrument. Should you need to move the rest, it is a simple matter to unscrew and reset the rest. If you think you will not need to adjust the rest later, you can glue the rest onto the recorder. Remember, however, that if you use glue you may be unable to remove the rest, or adjust it, at a later date.

We set out below a simple guide to the step you need to take when fitting the rest:

1. Locate the lug on the back of the thumbrest in the matching slot on the back of the middle section
2. Using an elastic band secure the rest onto the instrument and check that the position selected is comfortable
3. If the position is comfortable, use a small watch-maker's screwdriver to secure the rest to the body of the instrument