Author: esther
Date: 2006-03-24 16:13
I am returning to clarinet after 20+ years, and need some help. After kicking myself for foolishly pawning my rich sounding (but cracked) Signet Selmer years ago, I bought a Rene Dumont Bb, for very little money. It has a very dark wood with reddish undertones, and cheaply plated keys- serial B 18XX. The case, made of wood covered with canvas in an olive-colored background and a darker, fine hatch-mark pattern, has a red velvet interior. It has a brass (?) plate that reads "Rene Dumont Quality Woodwinds" in an art deco style type, and matches the metal locks and hinges. I searched for info about this brand, but came up with very little. Anything anyone can add about the brand and/or age of the clarinet would be helpful.
Now, about the care--- The clarinet has been stored for at least 15 years, without any care at all. It seems to be in good condition, no cracks, but the metal rings on the barrel and bell are very loose, presumably because the wood has dried and contracted. I don't wish to spend a lot of money to restore it, other than recorking the tenons (astonishingly, it seems to have pads in good condition, no leaks). What can I do to bring the life back to it? What kind of care should be given to the wood after so many years of neglect? I am reluctant to do anything with it until I know more about it. Please help!!
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The Clarinet BBoard
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