Klarinet Archive - Posting 000493.txt from 2003/02

From: "Raycraft" <raycraft@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] cracks
Date: Mon, 17 Feb 2003 16:24:05 -0500

> It makes sense to look at environmental factors which may be under your
> control. Did (do) you travel between climates, or play both indoors
> and outdoors, or alternate between air conditioned and non-air
> conditioned buildings, or anything like that? Is there any chance that
> you left (leave) your instrument locked in a car or trunk for extended
> periods (such as during the day before you play somewhere in the
> evening)? Some people swear by orange peels or Damp-Its when they have
> no choice about this.
>
> Nevertheless, coincidences do happen.
>
> Cheers,
> Bill

Bill,
No, I have not traveled between climates, I do play outdoors
occasionally, but mostly indoors. I never leave the instrument
in the car. I always make sure it is room temperature before I
play it, and I even warm the outside of the instrument with my
hands before playing it!
I did read something interesting last night about wood that is
very dry as a result of not being played for years, and when it
is suddenly played again, it gets moist on the inside, but not
the outside, so that causes cracks....I am really concerned
about my "A" Buffet now, because it is very old and has not
been used forever! I wonder if I should just play it for a short
time each day at first?
Sue

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