Welcome to our Clarinet Care Guide!

 

At CMA, we understand the joy of playing a well-maintained clarinet. Proper care is essential to keep your instrument in great shape and to ensure a smooth playing experience. Whether you’re new to the clarinet or an experienced player, our guide offers straightforward tips to help you care for your instrument. We’re here to support your musical journey and help you enjoy every note you play!

 

1. Daily Cleaning

  • Swab the Inside: After each use, use a swab to remove moisture from the inside of the clarinet. Pull the swab through each section to keep the bore dry.
  • Wipe Down the Exterior: Use a soft cloth to wipe down the keys and body to remove fingerprints and dirt.

 

2. Reed Care

  • Rotate Reeds: Use multiple reeds in rotation to prolong their life and ensure even wear.
  • Proper Storage: Store reeds in a reed case to keep them flat and dry. Avoid leaving reeds on the mouthpiece.

 

3. Regular Maintenance

  • Check the Pads: Inspect the pads regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace any pads that are torn or no longer seal properly.
  • Oil the Mechanism: Apply key oil to the key joints periodically to keep them moving smoothly. Use only a small amount to avoid buildup.

 

4. Assembly and Disassembly

  • Gentle Assembly: Assemble and disassemble the clarinet carefully to avoid bending keys. Apply cork grease to the tenon joints as needed to ensure easy assembly.
  • Proper Handling: Hold the clarinet by the body, not the keys, to prevent damage to the keywork.

 

5. Proper Storage

  • Use a Case: Always store your clarinet in a hard case when not in use to protect it from physical damage and environmental changes.
  • Avoid Extreme Conditions: Keep the clarinet away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Do not leave it in a car or near heat sources.

 

6. Mouthpiece Care

  • Clean Regularly: Clean the mouthpiece with warm water and a mouthpiece brush. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the mouthpiece.
  • Disinfect: Occasionally disinfect the mouthpiece with a mild solution of water and vinegar or a commercial mouthpiece cleaner.

 

7. Professional Check-ups

  • Annual Service: Have your clarinet serviced by a professional technician at least once a year to ensure it remains in good playing condition.
  • Prompt Repairs: Address any issues, such as sticky keys or air leaks, promptly to prevent further damage.

 

 

Download Your Clarinet Care Guide

Click here to download the Clarinet Care Guide PDF