Maintain your Clarinet

To keep your clarinet in the best condition, please follow these suggestions:


ASSEMBLY

  • Always consult your teacher if you are not sure how to put together your instrument.
  • NEVER force the parts of your instrument together.
  • Clarinets play the best when a moist reed is used. Get into the habit of soaking the thin end of the reed in your mouth while you are assembling your clarinet.
  • When assembling the clarinet you may need to apply a small amount of cork grease on each of the corked joints.
  • When properly used, cork grease should allow you to assemble your clarinet without using excessive force.
  • Always make sure that you have extra reeds, cleaning swabs and cork grease.

Maintenance

  • Use cork grease as needed. Too little will cause the cork to crack.
  • Do not leave the reed attached to the mouthpiece. This will shorten the life of the reed and cause it to collect germs.
  • Wipe off your fingerprints from the keys after every use. A clean, non-treated cotton cloth will work the best.
  • NEVER clean your clarinet with water.
  • Clean out the moisture from your instrument with an absorbent cotton drop swab after every use.
  • Clean the inside of all sections of the clarinet. Removing the moisture from your clarinet before putting it away each time will prolong the life of the pads.
  • Always store your instrument in its case with the lid closed when not in use. This will lower the risk of damage.
  • Do not put anything (including sheet music) inside the case with your instrument that does not belong. Closing the case with extra contents can cause damage to the delicate keys.
  • Make sure that all the latches are securely closed before transporting your instrument.
  • Do not leave your clarinet in the car or in direct sunlight. This could cause the instrument to crack.