Identifying and Fixing Clarinet Leaks
When you play your clarinet and find that some notes just won’t play, or the overall sound is airy, leaky, stuffy or squeaky…chances are you have one or more pads that aren’t sealing well and air is leaking. Leaks are the most common problem in wooden wind instruments like the clarinet.
Additionally, there are many websites that teach you how to do simple repairs such as replacing pads and corks. A leaky key can be due to several reasons such as a loose screw, maladjusted heights of keys or the pads over the tone hole, or a spring with inadequate power that cannot close the key properly.
Clarinet Basics and Troubleshooting
Why does my clarinet make a sharp sound?
You probably aren’t taking either enough or too much reed in the mouth. Try a different reed.
Why does my clarinet sound airy?
To know if your clarinet pads need to be replaced, you need only look. If the pad is starting to look old, discolored, or tattered, you can assume that it’s probably leaking.
How often should you replace clarinet pads?
A complete re-pad is recommended every 2-3 years.
Clarinet Testing and Care
How do you test a clarinet?
On your initial play test, you should be asking yourself the all-important question; “Does this clarinet play with the sound for which I am looking”. Play slowly in all registers paying special attention to the color and vibrancy of the tone. Listen for an even sound with consistent color from note to note.
First impressions count!
The initial visual inspection of your clarinet is very important. This is the first step to identifying problems that might be occurring or preventing others that may occur later down the road. Your clarinet should be inspected visually for several reasons. First, it gives you a quick impression of its overall condition.
How do you identify a Buffet clarinet?
Every Buffet Crampon clarinet comes stamped with their basic logo on the lower part of the clarinet. All other differentiating marks will be used for its identification.
Protecting Your Clarinet
Having lived in super cold environments, clarinetists might be concerned about their instrument cracking. The good news is that there are some precautions you can take to prevent your clarinet from cracking.