Musical Instrument Care Clarinet

888-51MUSIC

Locally: 320-214-9433

Whitney Music

Jazz n’ Java

Whitney Music Center

320-262-3999

Menu | Gallery | Schedule of Events

Whitney Music

Jazz N Java

PLEASE NOTE:

Use extreme care when you take your clarinet apart and reassemble it...It is a precision instrument. The joints will fit together easily if you grip them firmly, without squeezing the key rods, and gently but firmly push them together with a slight twisting motion. To avoid jamming the bridge key, hold the upper joint in your left hand and press the ring keys down as you assemble the body.

< Back to Instrument Care Tips

Care of Resonite Instruments

Clarinet and Oboe

1. Resonite clarinets and oboes are not affected by moisture, the chief cause of cracking in granadilla wood instruments, so it is not necessary to oil the bores of these instruments. To prevent damage to the pads, however, use a Selmer Dri-Bore swab to remove any moisture from the clarinet after playing. Use special oboe swabs to remove moisture from oboe.

2. Use Selmer Cork Grease on all cork joints to preserve resiliency of the cork, and make it easier to take the instrument apart and reassemble it.

3. All points of friction in the key mechanism (where the end of a key rod meets the post holding the mechanism) should be oiled every month or so with Selmer Key Oil. Use sparingly, as too much oil collects dust and dirt. After oiling, work the keys and wipe off excess oil.

4. CAUTION: Do not use chemical or solvent agents (including alcohol) to clean Resonite clarinets and oboes. USE WATER ONLY.

5. After each playing, the clarinet mouthpiece should be cleaned with a soft cloth. Wash out regularly with lukewarm water and castile soap. Never use hot water on a hard rubber mouthpiece.

6. A small camel’s hairbrush should be used to remove dust and lint that gathers around the posts and springs and under the key rods.