Which is better and why?
What makes a wood clarinet special? Why are there different materials, and what are the advantages of the two? While a Grenadilla wood clarinet is the “gold standard” for professional clarinet playing, both options do have their benefits.
Clarinets have historically been made of a variety of materials, including rosewood clarinets, Grenadilla, hard rubber, and ABS/plastic “Resonite.” While rosewood is beautiful, it created a manufacturing nightmare, hence the manufacturing default to Grenadilla clarinets.
With the invention of Bakelite, plastic clarinets became readily accessible in the 1930s. While providing many benefits, the resonance is not as vibrant as it is with wooden clarinets.
Wood clarinets have the potential for a beautiful, rich tone due to resonant qualities of the wood. Grenadilla wood has been selected as the standard for clarinet manufacturing because, while it is beautiful and resonates well, it is less likely to crack and warp due to temperature and humidity.
Of course, wooden instruments require maintenance and care, hence the search for a more economical options
Metal clarinets emerged in the late 1800s, but grew in popularity in the late 1920s-1930s. There are several reasons these are no longer popular. While more resilient and durable than a wooden clarinet, the tone quality of a metal clarinet is often quite harsh and bright. With the invention of plastic clarinets, these metal instruments are virtually unnecessary–though often an interesting antique.
Plastic clarinets are now very typical for a student-level clarinet. Why? Well, for one, these instruments are cost-effective. With the rising cost of lumber, plastic/Resonite clarinets are more affordable. The other reason is their durability–virtually indestructible, and cheap to repair, plastic clarinets are very favorable for beginning band. Plastic also holds up very well to temperature and humidity, making it a great choice for marching band and pep band.
What is Resonite? Resonite is plastic. Selmer created the term to combine the words “ebonite” and “resonance.” Essentially, these are simply plastic clarinets with the illusion that they resonate as well as a wooden instrument.
A serious musician, however, will grow out of a plastic clarinet very quickly. An intermediate clarinet or professional clarinet made of wood will be a great way to open possibilities.
While wood clarinets do require maintenance, the routines are relatively simple. For one, the bore of a wood clarinet should be regularly oiled. While the clarinet is dry (and has not been recently played), running a swab with bore oil through the instrument will provide a barrier, so the wood is less prone to moisture and bacteria retention.
The other important factor in keeping a wood clarinet in great shape is to protect it from sudden temperature cases. Many clarinetists will purchase case covers–an outer wrapping to shield your clarinet case from harsh temperatures, making the changes more gradual for the instrument itself. Avoid keeping the instrument outside in a car, on top of a heat vent, or in the warmest/coldest spot of your home. Wiping moisture out after each time you play will also help keep the bore in its best shape. Otherwise, maintenance of a wood clarinet is relatively simple.
In addition to wood clarinets and plastic clarinets, hard rubber was a material used for a shorter period of time. Hard Rubber clarinets are a rare find–though Second Wind Music has some available for purchase.
