Klarinet Archive - Posting 000394.txt from 1999/03

From: Phil Shapiro <pshapiro@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] oiling wood clarinets
Date: Sat, 6 Mar 1999 01:42:41 -0500

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I just read Dr. Goldman's post, and I have to put in my 2 cents. 
Stephen is well meaning but dead wrong.  Sorry, I couldn't resist.

First off, the link Dr. Goldman provided was quite informative. I now
know more about oil than I ever wanted.  And while the science behind it
all is no doubt sound, I am quick to remind that experience often defies
logic.  I know François Kloc, and his knowledge of the instrument is
second to none.  If he says "...basically that it is unnecessary to oil
clarinets especially when they are brand new" then that's the emis.

But I can also tell you my personal experience has also shown this to be
true.  My clarinets, made in 1969-1970, have never been oiled as far as
I know.  I purchased them in 1976 and have never oiled them, and it is
unlikely that they were oiled in the preceding 6 years.  The wood is as
healthy as the day I got them.  Now I'll grant you that I play them
daily, and live in a rather humid climate.  In fact South Florida is
rarely under 50% humidity during the 2 weeks of winter, and almost
always above 80% the rest of the year.  If you were to live in a very
dry climate and play infrequently and do not return them to the case
after playing then things may be different.

Bottom line??  Oil your clarinet as often as you want.  Hell, you paid
for it.  It will either help or it won't.  But don't say that someone's
"dead wrong" if they don't feel they need to.  They may just be right.

Me personally??  I like to hold 'em out the window at the car wash. 
Barring that, I try to rub them on the personnel manager, he's pretty
greasy.  But whatever you choose, please wear protection.  And remember
to floss.

Cheers,
-Phil Shapiro
Principal Clarinet
Miami Symphony

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