The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Henrik
Date: 2002-02-10 10:24
I just bought a wooden clarinet (used)! But am not really sure how to care for it.... Do you need to oil the bore? How often should I have it looked after by a professional (eg if the pads need to be changed)? How do you clean the outside (from dust etc) without harming the wood? Thankful for any advise.....
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Author: jbutler
Date: 2002-02-10 12:34
Henrik,
New instruments, in most cases, should NOT have the bore oiled. You may, indeed, void any type of warranty. Read the warranty specifications and adhere to them in order to recoup any remedies if a problem develops.
Have your instrument tech look at it at least annually, more often if you live in an area that has extreme weather conditions. A wiping of the clarinet with a soft cloth should be enough. Individuals' hands have a different amount of carbonic and phalic acid. (I believe I have these acids identified correctly.) Luckily, I have a low amount of these and can keep keys shiney for a long time by simply wiping the keys off each time I put the clarinet back into the case.
Do a search on this topic. Much has advice has been given in the past and there are different ideas (opinions) for sure.
jbutler
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Author: jbutler
Date: 2002-02-10 15:10
Oh, yes....(used)....well, now usually instruments need to be oiled whenever a repad or overhaul is in order. It, of course, is often done by individuals and is not "rocket science". Once again, rather than rehashing what information is already in the archieves, do a search. You'll get a lot of information. I only oil my clarinets when I repad or overhaul them.
jbutler
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Author: William
Date: 2002-02-10 15:44
"Elementary, my dear Henrik, Elementary"--I know, but be certain to not only swab the bore (bell to top)after every use, but also clean the excess moisture from the tendon sleeves. I also use cigarette paper to sop up any moisture left under the side key pads--prevents sticking and preserves the lives fo the pads. And, as usual, avoid suddent temperature changes which may cause your clarinet wood to crack. Ex--leaving it in your car in sub freezing temps after playing the gig, or playing it immediately after removing it from your car the next morning. Sudden severe temp changes do not make for a happy clarinet. Good Clarineting!!!!!!!!!!!
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Author: Bob
Date: 2002-02-10 19:15
Henrik: just think of a clarinet as a fine piece of antique wood furniture. I've had good luck with Formby's Tung oil with or without dilution with turpentine or mineral spirits. Don't get any on the pads,cork or action. Cut the glued area off of any regular cigarette paper. I finally settled on a silk handkerchief swab and highly recommend them.
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Author: diz
Date: 2002-02-10 22:11
My two cents' worth: contact the manufacturer - they should have a care guide for their instruments (I know LeBlanc to at least).
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