CORKS AND JOINTS
Cork grease is used for two reasons. Firstly it helps the joints slip together and
secondly it protects the cork from rotting.
(Petroleum jelly should not be used on clarinets as it does not protect the cork and it
can react with glue or oil on the instrument)
Apply a small amount of cork grease to the cork and rub in with a finger. It should leave a
slippy surface so the joints will fit together smoothly. If the grease is really sticky it may be
better to stop using this and find a different brand.
Cork grease should be applied in small amounts and only as and when required. If there
is too much cork grease it can build up and be transferred to the mechanism, pad surfaces and
case.
Wipe off cork grease if a build up appears. If a joint becomes too stiff, see a
repairer to have it corrected. Loose joints should also be attended to.
There are various corks on the mechanism of the clarinet. These are there for a purpose!
It can be tempting to pick away at them when not playing an instrument: don't! It
may cause the keys to become noisy or may even prevent the clarinet from playing at all.
