This guide is designed to ensure your clarinet performs optimally and that you approach every practice and performance with confidence.
This guide is designed to ensure your clarinet performs optimally and that you approach every practice and performance with confidence.
For a detailed visual tutorial on clarinet assembly, watch Rod Pearson’s video, “Assemble Your Clarinet with West Music,” available below and our YouTube channel: Assemble Your Clarinet with West Music.
Introduction to Clarinet Components:
The clarinet is composed of five primary parts: the mouthpiece with reed and ligature, barrel, upper joint, lower joint, and bell. Familiarity with each component is crucial for proper assembly.
Step 1: Reed Preparation
Begin your assembly by removing the reed from its guard and moistening it in your mouth. This step is essential to ensure the reed is flexible and ready to produce the clarinet's rich, full sound.
Step 2: Assembling the Joints
Start with the upper joint of the clarinet and gently depress the key to raise the bridge key. This preparation allows for a smooth connection when attaching the lower joint. Gently twist to connect the two joints, ensuring they are securely fitted.
Step 3: Applying Cork Grease
Lightly apply cork grease to the tenons of the clarinet to ease the assembly process and protect the instrument. This maintenance step helps prevent wear and ensures a tight seal between components.
Step 4: Attaching the Bell and Barrel
Attach the bell to the lower joint of the clarinet, followed by affixing the barrel to the upper joint. Each component is vital for the overall sound quality and playability of the instrument.
Step 5: Connecting the Mouthpiece and Reed
Carefully place the reed on the mouthpiece and secure it with the ligature. Finally, attach the mouthpiece to the barrel. This completes the assembly of your clarinet, making it ready for playing.
Disassembly and Instrument Care:
To disassemble your clarinet, carefully reverse the assembly steps. Paying close attention to each detail during disassembly is critical to maintaining the instrument’s condition and ensuring it remains ready for future use.