 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: vitoclarinet
Date: 2006-08-24 22:44
Yesterday, I got my first wood, buffet clarinet! It sounds awesome compared to the old, plastic one that I've had for the past few years. I'm very excited, but I know that a new clarinet also means a big responsiblity for me! Since I've never had a wood clarinet before, I need some professional help. I don't want to abuse it like I did with my old plastic vito one(the thumbrest pad thing is broken). What are some of the things I can do to keep my clarinet just perfect for a long time? Also, what can I do to prevent the cracks in the clarinet?
Thank you in advance for all your help!!!!!!
-vitoclarinet
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Author: hans
Date: 2006-08-24 23:37
vitoclarinet,
Re: "what can I do to prevent the cracks in the clarinet?"
I think it's been stated on the BB a number of times (by Gordon, NZ, if I recall) that some clarinets will never crack; some clarinets will crack in spite of the best of care; and some may not crack if they are well cared for - or something to that effect.
Unfortunately, there is no way to tell which of the three types any of us has. The prudent thing is, IMO, to protect it from rapid changes in humidity and temperature, giving the wood time to expand and contract rather than stressing it.
My Selmer Recital is now nearly 18 years old and has not cracked. While (see paragraph two) I can not take credit for this with certainty, it is always swabbed after playing including careful drying of the joints. It also gets at least an annual bore oiling. I like to think that these measure have helped and I'm superstitious enough to continue them.
I wish you good luck (i.e., a type 1 or type 3 clarinet).
Regards,
Hans
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Author: BobD
Date: 2006-08-25 19:15
Wood clarinets are not all they're cracked up to be.
Bob Draznik
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Author: David Spiegelthal ★2017
Date: 2006-08-25 20:54
My 'middle of the road' recommendations:
1) Swab the clarinet thoroughly after each playing -- as with a good horse, never ride it hard and put it away wet.
2) Wipe all the metal parts with a soft cotton cloth after every use (especially if your skin oils are particularly acidic).
3) Lightly oil the bore once a year or so with a good bore preservative (Doctor's Products version is highly recommended).
4) Lightly grease your corks every so often so that they never bind, using a good cork lubricant (see #3 above for a source).
5) Avoid subjecting your clarinet to extremes or rapid changes of temperature and/or humidity.
6) Don't sit on your clarinet or allow some bozo (or even a good person) to knock it over when it's on a stand. Obtain a good, sturdy stand while you're at it.
7) Avoid Acker-Bilk-like tonal quality, or someone might take offense and damage your clarinet intentionally.
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Author: GBK
Date: 2006-08-25 21:08
8. Make sure you know (or have marked) the top side of your clarinet case, so as not to open the case upside down.
9. When putting away the clarinet, make sure all latches are securely fastened and closed before picking up the case by the handle.
10. An outer case cover can help to protect the case as well as ward off extreme cold temperatures.
11. There is a reason that the cheap plastic clarinet stands cost so little. Avoid them.
12. Write down the serial number of the clarinet and take a few photographs of the instrument, just in case.
13. There are 3 things you never loan out: your wife, your car and your clarinet (the order may vary)
14. If you are under 18 years old, amend #13 to read "your girlfriend, your bicycle and your clarinet." Again, the order may vary...GBK
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Author: tictactux ★2017
Date: 2006-08-25 21:17
> 12. Write down the serial number of the clarinet and take a few
> photographs of the instrument, just in case.
And hand these photos over to your lawyer or insurance broker (it's a good idea to do this with all belongings of above-average-value). Just in case.
--
Ben
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Author: EuGeneSee
Date: 2006-08-25 21:20
14. Don't put extra accessories (that won't fit in the small accessory storage hole) in between the clarinet sections lest you bend keys or otherwise damage the clarinet.
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