Cork applications
Instruments
Cork is not a single-use material in musical instruments. It is a versatile and indispensable material, present in practically every wind instrument, woodwind and brass.
Saxophone
Neck cork, Cork pads, Bumpers
Clarinet
Tenon cork, Cork pads, Bumpers
Oboe
Tenon cork, Oboe cork pads, Bumpers
Cor anglais
Oboe cork pads, Bumpers
Bassoon
Tenon cork, Bumpers
Flute and piccolo
Head cork, Bumpers
Trumpet and trombone
Water key cork, Bumpers
Other uses: adjustments, grips, key protection.
Repair and maintenance
A component that gets replaced
Cork is the wear component most often replaced in any wind instrument. Replacing it is not optional: a saxophone with a worn neck cork does not seal properly and loses sound quality.
Natural cork
Why cork is used
Natural micro-elasticity
A seal with a soft, precise touch.
Dimensional stability
Under changes in temperature and humidity, critical in wind instruments.
Tactile response
For the experienced musician.