English (United Kingdom)

Plumwood

 

pflaume

Plumwood, one of the finest European woods, is easily recognizable by its beautiful dark maroon colour which emerges particularly after oiling. Plum is stronger and denser than Pearwood, and instruments crafted from plumwood show a sound pattern that is both subtle and warm as well as clear and strong.

It is the most suitable wood for early instruments or those of a lower register. I use it preferably for Renaissance and early Baroque recorders as well as for the low register of the later Baroque (Voice-recorder, Tenor). Its relatively light weight is particularly suitable in this instance.

Plumwood instruments should be frequently oiled, otherwise they are relatively low maintenance. Avoid extreme climatic changes to prevent cracks