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Klarinet Archive - Posting 000005.txt from 1996/07

From: Steve Fowler <sfowler@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Stiff Corks
Date: Mon, 1 Jul 1996 00:56:56 -0400

> Has anyone ever had any serious trouble with new corks remaining too
> stiff? About four months ago I bought a new Buffet R-13. So far
> most of the corks have softened up nicely, but the cork between the upper
> and lower segments of the clarinet is still very tight. While I have been
> very careful with that joint, I'm afraid I'm eventually going to bend a
> key. I had originally discussed this with my teacher, and since then I've
> asked other clarinettists I know, but no one has been able to suggest
> anything besides using more cork grease. Has anyone ever had a similar
> problem?
>
> Thanks for the help.
>
> Roger
> rcole@-----.edu
>
>

Roger,

Are you absolutely sure that the joint is tight because of the cork
and not the wood. Frequently, new clarinets go through a period of
swelling that can cause the tenon and socket to not fit correctly.
Usually a little wood must be removed. DO NOT DO THIS AT HOME!

What you want is to have a good repair tech take a look at it. He can
take off cork or wood and do it right. If you can't get to a tech,
try sanding the cork with a little emery paper. Removing the cork
grease with alcohol before sanding will make the sanding go easier.

Good luck.

Steve
Steve Fowler (sfowler@-----.com)