Klarinet Archive - Posting 000223.txt from 1996/01

From: thehat@-----.ORG
Subj: Selmer Basses
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 1996 23:22:04 -0500

Apparently my first message on this subject was mangled, and I apologize
for that. Someone asked if one could tell the difference between an older
Selmer Bass Clarinet and a model 33 visually. The answer is yes.

A pre-model 33 low C Selmer Bass will have 3 right hand thumb keys. The
Model 33 has only 2. There is now a new model (the 35, I believe) which
also has only 2 thumb keys.

The model 33 has different fingerings for the notes below low 3 from any
other bass clarinet ever made. I own a 33 and find these fingerings
particulary useful and intuitive. Selmer has discontinued these though.
The new model 35 has extension fingerings that are the same as a Buffet
Prestige bass.

The old Selmers (pre model 33) with the 3 thumb keys had a much more
awkward fingering system which required holding down keys to get low
notes, like a LeBlanc. The 33 and 35 both allow the thumb keys to be
pressed without pressing or holding any other keys, a major advantage, in
my opinion.

The only Selmer shortcoming is the long b natural, which tends to be quite
sharp even on the best instruments. Closing the register key most of the
way while playing this note, while inconvenient, will lower the pitch
nicely. Generally. Selmer makes an excellent product, In my opinion.

-David Hattner
clarinetist-at-large, NYC

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This copy of Freddie 1.2.5 is being evaluated.