I've settled upon this thread while searching for a solution to my problem with attempting to understand the condition of my pads. I'm short on knowledge, as I've recently returned to the clarinet (1972 LeBlanc Noblet) after a fifty year absence. I've been pleased with my progress and I've been devoting a lot of time to regain some mediocre performance. One year has passed since I began again and I've been careful to clean my instrument well after each use. Last week I was interrupted and laid down my clarinet wet, not returning until the next day. Since that time I've had a slower response and difficulty with distant jumps in pitches worsening after about 30 minutes of play. If I slip a piece of absorbent tissue under my pads and press them a few times I can regain function for another half hour of play, but I'm soon back with the same problem.
My pads were described as recently replaced when I purchased this clarinet one year ago and their appearance is excellent, but I don't know what problems might not be visible. Could I have a film of deposit on these pads that is repeatedly becoming sticky with moisture? Are there means of cleaning these pads that I can pursue? Could I be mistaken in my thinking that the pads are the problem? I should add that I have removed the register key and made sure that the passage is clear and clean.
I'm very pleased to have discovered this forum and I'm looking forward to your advice.
My pads were described as recently replaced when I purchased this clarinet one year ago and their appearance is excellent, but I don't know what problems might not be visible. Could I have a film of deposit on these pads that is repeatedly becoming sticky with moisture? Are there means of cleaning these pads that I can pursue? Could I be mistaken in my thinking that the pads are the problem? I should add that I have removed the register key and made sure that the passage is clear and clean.
I'm very pleased to have discovered this forum and I'm looking forward to your advice.