Klarinet Archive - Posting 000123.txt from 1996/06

From: "ROGER W. FERRELL" <102623.2572@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Clarinet Lifetime?
Date: Sun, 9 Jun 1996 16:35:36 -0400

This is in reference to a previous message concerning whether or not an older,
used clarinet might or might not be better than a new one. I have heard some
past associates of mine claim that a clarinet will only last a few years,
whereupon it becomes "blown out", apparently due to factors such as the moisture
present in the bore, multiple swabbings, vibrations due to tones being produced,
etc, etc.

I own a Buffet R-13 which I aquired in 1970 that, other than mechanical wear, I
still consider to be a better horn than any Buffet I've played on since, mainly
in terms of response, tone quality and intonation. If there is such a thing as
"blowing out" a clarinet, I would like to hear anyone's thoughts on this.

Just in case anyone's interested, I've been a member of the Air Force Band
program since 1977 and am currently stationed with the Air Force Reserve Band at
Robins Air Force Base, just south of Macon, GA. I would sincerely like to hear
from any past military clarinetists, and welcome questions from anyone who might
be interested in a gig!

Roger Ferrell