Klarinet Archive - Posting 000849.txt from 1997/09

From: Dee Hays <deerich@-----.net>
Subj: Re: New clarinet: Greenline?
Date: Wed, 17 Sep 1997 20:25:06 -0400

Ben Chui wrote:

> Hi, I'm currently a senior in high school. My E11 of seven years
> finally gave up (the padset) and I feel that I am ready for a pro-level
> instrument. I've been leaning towards a Buffet Greenline R13 for it's
> R13-tone and composite resilence (the winters here in the SF bay area
> see some cold mornings when I have to play in band in the morning). The
> other clarinetists have R13s but I've been principal for my entire
> career. Everyone knows the R13's impeccable reputation and from what
> I've heard the greenline is of no less acoustical quality.
> Agree/Disagree? feedback would be appreciated.
> Thanks,
>
> -Ben

I recommend that even if you buy another clarinet, get your E-11 repadded
anyway. This gives you a backup clarinet in case you should need one or
want one. It is relatively inexpensive (all new pads and all new corks
plus springs as needed only cost me $150 on my daughter's clarinet a couple
of years ago). Also if you sometimes might be playing under conditions
where you do not want to use your pro clarinet, you have something decent
to use. Or you could then sell it for that matter. If properly taken
care, even student level instruments should have a good 30 years of life in
them. Many clarinets last even longer. I own three clarinets (student,
intermediate, pro). The latter two are wonderful instruments although the
pro is over 40 years old and the intermediate is probably around 60 years
old. Even the student one is playable though its probably 70+ years old.

So take care of them or you'll be looking to replace your new one in 7
years. It is amazing the pad set lasted this long.

Dee Hays
deerich@-----.net