Klarinet Archive - Posting 000255.txt from 1996/05

From: "Anne M. Bell" <AMBGN@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Clarinet plating rubbing off
Date: Sat, 11 May 1996 11:57:14 -0400

I do have experience with nickel tarnishing. I would not imagine that
this would be very likely in a place where the finish is constantly
'buffed' by the fingers, with nickel it may dull a bit where it is in
contact with the fingers but it dsn't look like what I think is being
described. My experience turned out to be wonderful. When I started
getting better on Clarinet my Grandfather gave me one of his- it's
a ffet, probably made in 1952-54. It had been a while, so I sent it
to be overhauled. The appearance of the keys was pretty terrible, there
were dark copper colored spots along with some even less appealing
coloration. (green is for vegetables, not clarinets) My clarinet
teacher at the time advised me not to worry about the finish- that
it was probably corroded off.
The real surprise came several weeks later- I went in for a lesson
and he had a BEAUTIFUL instrument on a stand. I was all excited thinking
that he had bought a new clarinet. I, of course
begged to play it.

SURPRISE- it was mine! As it turns out the keys are solid nickel. They
still need to be polished but I never have to worry about the finish
wearing

About having the keys silver plated...I'm not sure how much work would
be required to do this. The old plating may have to be entirely removed...
This may not be cost effective, though you would be wise to contact a
reputable repair person to see if this is possible. Unrtunately my
husband, who has done electroplating, is out of town so I can't get
his opinion. Best of Luck!

Anne M. Bell
AMBGN@-----.edu