Clarinet servicing is the process of inspecting and repairing clarinets. The clarinet is made up of many different parts, and clarinet servicing ensures that everything is in working order. The instrument is thoroughly cleaned and inspected after all of the parts have been repaired. The final step is to perform another test to ensure that the clarinet sounds good.
Testing the clarinet to diagnose any sound problems is an important part of clarinet servicing. An experienced technician can identify the causes of some sound problems and fix them quickly. Following that, the instrument is disassembled and inspected. The clarinet is made up of five pieces, two of which contain the holes, pads, and keys.
The clarinet’s removable components are all removed. All keys and pads have been removed, as well as all pins. The dust is removed, and the parts are cleaned thoroughly and meticulously. Cleaning agents are used that are specific to the type of material used to make the clarinet and its parts. All of the screws and pivot rods connecting the keys are also cleaned thoroughly.
During clarinet servicing, each component is inspected and repaired. Keypads that are old or broken are replaced. All of the keys and pads are properly aligned over the holes, and the spring tension is adjusted. To ensure that nothing seizes in the future, screws and pivot rods are oiled and re-tightened. Cork on the connection ends that is broken or dry is replaced or oiled.
Bore oil will be applied to older wood clarinets as part of the clarinet servicing process. Wood clarinets are no longer as common as they once were, and they are now considered rare. It is possible for wood to warp if it is not properly treated or stored in the right environment. The majority of clarinets are now made of composite or plastic materials. Composite clarinets are less prone to warping and don’t need to be oiled.
The technician will seat the pads after the clarinet has been reassembled. When the key pads are down, they must perfectly fit over the holes so that no air escapes. The clarinet is then regulated, which involves the technician making sure that all of the keys’ pads close at the same time.
The final step in clarinet servicing is to test the tone and overall sound of the instrument. Adjustments are made as needed until the clarinet is in perfect working order. Some shops will also clean the cases as part of the service. If the technician notices any major problems while servicing the clarinet, he or she will often offer advice on proper care and cleaning.