How to Assemble a Bundy Clarinet

Bundy clarinets are typically stored in a case like this and must be assembled and disassmbled for each use.

Bundy is an off-shoot of the Selmer brand that offers an affordable student model clarinet. One of the first things you must learn when starting the clarinet is how to properly assemble the instrument. The clarinet is comprised of five main parts: the mouthpiece, barrel, upper joint, lower joint and bell. Bundy clarinets are separated into these five pieces for storage and transport. Clarinetists must know how to assemble their instrument without causing damage to the keys and corks. You should follow proper assembly techniques daily to keep your clarinet in good working order.

Things You'll Need

• Clarinet mouthpiece
• Clarinet barrel
• Clarinet upper joint
• Clarinet lower joint
• Clarinet bell
• Cork grease

Instructions

1. Apply a small amount of cork grease to each cork on the upper joint, lower joint and mouthpiece. Rub the grease into the cork and wipe off any extra with your finger.

2. Locate the upper joint and the lower joint. The upper joint will have the "Bundy" stamp at the top. The lower joint will have the thumb rest on the back.

3. Hold the upper joint with your left hand covering the keys and tone holes. This will lift the bridge key on the bottom right of the joint.

4. Hold the lower joint with your right hand.

5. Slide the cork of the upper joint into the tendon of the lower joint, making sure that the bridge key on the upper can pass over the top of the bridge key on the lower. Make sure these are aligned.

6. Hold the upper joint at the top where there aren't any keys, and gently wiggle the two joints together. Avoid holding the keys and twisting, as this can result in bent keys.

7. Hold the upper joint and wiggle the large end of the barrel onto the upper cork.

8. Hold the barrel and wiggle the mouthpiece onto the upper, smaller end of the barrel.

9. Hold the clarinet and wiggle the bell onto the lower cork of the lower joint. The clarinet is now fully assembled.

Tips & Warnings

• Using cork grease each time you assemble will aid in assembly.

• Don't apply pressure to the joints of the keys. This can push your keys out of alignment, which must be repaired by a professional.

References

• Winslow Elementary: How to Assemble Your Clarinet
• Selmer Musical Instruments: History in Detail