Klarinet Archive - Posting 000333.txt from 1997/09

From: Jim Lytthans <lytthans@-----.net>
Subj: Bb and A clarinets
Date: Sun, 7 Sep 1997 20:01:50 -0400

My high school owned a couple of A clarinets, so we were expected to use
them in the orchestra. I bought my first set of clarinets - "matched"
Bb/A Buffets - as a sophomore in high school. Of course, then, one
could purchase the set (from Robert Gilbert), including double case, for
around $525 (1957). Even then, that was not a lot of money. Flutists
and oboists then were forking over much more for top-line instruments.
We had it good for a long time, and still do, if you price a Powell
flute or Loree oboe (or a Heckel bassoon!) So, IMHO, a really serious
high school clarinetist should own both, and keep them a very long
time. I picked up a set of top-of-the-line Yamahas several years ago
(at the Chicago ICA) for $2400, no tax. Deals can be found. My point is
that clarinets are still good values, and serious amateurs, if they want
to play chamber music, or in orchestras, should own both. As for a C
clarinet, well....... I'm still looking for a good one!
--

Jim Lytthans
La Mirada Symphony Orchestra
Claremont Symphonic Winds
(http://www.galcit.caltech.edu/~dooley/csw.html)
My home page:
http://home.pacbell.net/lytthans/index.html

   
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