Klarinet Archive - Posting 000012.txt from 1996/07

From: Steve Prescott <mipresc@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Stiff Corks
Date: Mon, 1 Jul 1996 17:09:38 -0400

Steve Fowler wrote in response to 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)
>==========================================================
>Fowler Music Service * Band Instrument Custom Repairs *
>1994 Moreland Pkwy #8 --Plating in Silver and Gold--
>Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 267-5991
>==========================================================

Steve,

I agree with everything except using alcohol to remove the old cork grease.
It works, don't get me wrong. I feel it drys the tenon ends too much (to
each his own). Try Pledge, it removes grease and wax. Lighter fluid also
works if used sparingly.

Steve.

Steve Prescott
Instrument Rep.Tech./ Clarinetist
Indiana State University
mipresc@-----.edu