Klarinet Archive - Posting 000599.txt from 1999/10

From: "Dee D. Hays" <deehays@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] metal clarinets
Date: Tue, 19 Oct 1999 20:06:10 -0400

----- Original Message -----
From: <Krh214@-----.com>
Subject: [kl] metal clarinets

> Hi,
>
> iIm new to the list, and an amused owner of what appears to me an, uhm,
> really well-aged B flat soprano clarinet (excuse me if I get the
terminolgy
> not-quite-right. I've never played clarinet--but I've got lots of flutes,
> whistles, recorders, etc.). One never knows what one will find at a flea
> market!
>
> Anyway, questions:
> What's the reasonong behind making a clarinet out of metal instead of
> wood or plastic?
>
> This particular horn has on it's bell"
> *Collegiate*Made by Holton*Elkhart, Wis.
> serial number 195746. Can anyone help me figure out the age of this
> instrument (approximate is good enough)
>
> I stoped by a woodwind shop today, and bought some reeds, cork stuff,
a
> swab and a Valentino pad set, since a cusory inspection indicated that the
> pads on there right now are moth eaten.
> There are also apparently moth eggs on the surface of the
horn--GROSS!!
> (like I said, one never knows what one will find at a flea market), so
> another question: Any recomendations of how best to clean this sucker?
I'm
> wildly optimistic about successfully replacing the pads on this horn, and
I'd
> hate for the moths to re-attack.
>
> I appreciate your responses.
>
> Kimberly Holt
> Raleigh, North Carolina
> USA
>

The heydey of the metal clarinets was from the 1920s through early 1940s
although they were made both before and after this time period. The
majority of them were intended for the student and marching band trade as a
sturdy, rugged horn for beginners and outdoor use. As such then, most of
them were beginner grade instruments. The Holton Collegiate was apparently
one of the better than average ones. There were a few pro ones made in
metal but these are very rare.

I think it is a good idea to restore it to playing condition just to own a
little piece of history although the normal metal horn doesn't have any
significant monetary value. Once restored, it will probably play as well as
other beginner horns *of the same era* such as the beginner woods, bakelite,
and hard rubber student horns. I would not expect it to play as well as a
modern beginner instrument such as those made by Buffet, Leblanc, Selmer or
Yamaha.

Why they selected metal, I can't say for sure but wood does not do well
outside in bad weather. Bakelite and plastics of that era were rather
brittle and broke easily so it would be risky to march with one. Hard
rubber is affected, eventually, by direct sunlight so again you would not
want to use it too often or too long outdoors.

As far as cleaning the surface, just make SURE you get everything wiped off.
It is easier to do this (and install the pads in the keys) with the keys off
the horn. You should also clean the inside too of course with an old swab
or padded rod.

If there is a case, it might need fumigated as insects could be living in
it. Those guys can eat the pads too if you don't.

Have fun,
Dee Hays
Canton, SD

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