Klarinet Archive - Posting 001485.txt from 1998/04

From: Gary_VanCott@-----.com
Subj: Re: sound, shape, and material
Date: Mon, 27 Apr 1998 06:10:20 -0400

This message is only slightly related to the subject.

Yesterday, I took a poster for our clarinet quartet concert to one of the
local music stores. There was a big sign in the window that said "Clarinet
Sale" and in the counter 7 or 8 different models of Buffet clarinets were
laid out in a row. In retrospect, I realize I should have siezed to
opportunity to do as much of a blind test as was possible under the
circumstances. However, the thought didn't occur to me, in fact, it was a
while before I realized that my clarinet (mouthpiece and reeds) was in the
car so I could try any at all.

I have been curious about the E-11 A clarinet. It sounded to me like a
student instrument (similar to my old Selmer Signet Special). I don't think
I will be buying one anytime soon.

I also played a Buffet Festival which I liked very much. After I had played
if for a while with the stock barrel I decided to try my Clark Fobes barrel
on it. I thought that this barrel significantly improved what was already
good sound and that it made more difference on this instrument than it did
on my R-13.

Gary Van Cott
Las Vegas, NV