Klarinet Archive - Posting 000780.txt from 1998/07

From: <kbowman@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] RE: alt. fingerings & full Boehm system?
Date: Wed, 22 Jul 1998 16:56:19 -0400

Listers,

While we are on the subject of alt. fingerings and full boehm
systems:

Just listed on Ebay is a Selmer Centered Tone Bb soprano clarinet
SN 9864 with low Eb and aux G# trill key. Sneezy's serial number
list indicates this horn to be from 1957. Does anybody know if
this is the so-called full Boehm system?

I've been looking for a Center Tone for some time (for Jazz work).
One of my students owns a Center Tone (with the "standard" keywork)
which he graciously allowed me to play. It was much more free
blowing than my R13 and, it seemed to me, had a "bigger" sound. Not
exactly what I would use for orchestral playing, because the tone
was more "lively" (eek - don't start the dark vs. bright war again,
It's just difficult to describe sound in words).

I've heard that the Center Tone line was made with a larger bore -
is this true?

I've wanted to own a Center Tone for some time but the thought of
owning one with extended keywork (esp. low Eb) is thrilling. Any
information that any of you can provide regarding this instrument
would be appreciated.

Also - if I am lucky enough to obtain this horn (or any other
Center Tone), would you recommend trying a HS* or HS** mcp?
(I'm currently playing a Vandoren B45 on my R13).

Kevin Bowman
Clarinet and Saxophone Instructor
Rochester Conservatory of Muscic, Rochester, MI

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