Klarinet Archive - Posting 000837.txt from 1998/08

From: "Kevin Fay (LCA)" <kevinfay@-----.com>
Subj: RE: [kl] major decision
Date: Fri, 28 Aug 1998 16:47:39 -0400

Ben--

I would go for the R-13. With proper care, it will be the last clarinet you
will ever need to buy. They aren't getting any cheaper, either.

If you just can't get over spending that much (and you should), try the
Buffet intermediate horns instead--they play closer to the R-13, IMHO. They
have much the same design, but are made in Germany in a more industrial/less
hand-crafted manner. (France IS better, yes Mr. Kloc? ;-) Several
professionals that I know--who are not primarily clarinet players--use the
E-11 as their "doubler's horn."

Again, though, I would strongly suggest getting the R-13. While I have had
at least a dozen professional clarinets over the last 25 years, the Bb that
I use the most today is the R-13 I bought in high school. You will never,
ever regret the extra money you spend today on the better horn.

kjf

-----Original Message-----
From: Ben Stutzman [mailto:benstutzman@-----.net]
Subject: [kl] major decision

My name is Ben Stutzman, I'm new to the list. I'm a sophmore in HS and
have been taking private lessons for 4 years. (I think) I just switched
teachers (wasn't easy) and got a *wonderful* new teacher. This fall I'm
trying out for district band - I was encouraged too. The only problem
is I grew out of my piece of junk Bundy a while ago. When I play the
audition piece, it sounds terrible because my clarinet is SO out of
tune, and altissimo is incredibly bright, not to mention difficult to
play. It's not good for a whole lot. Oh yeah, marching band. My
teacher suggested either buy a NEW intermediate Yamaha YCL52 or pro
R-13. I would love to get the pro instrument; but I am really at an
intermediate level. My parents will contribute enough for the Yamaha,
me chipping in the rest for the R-13. Is it good for me to get a
professional horn? I will play through HS for sure, I'm not sure about
college. If I get a intermediate instrument and play in college, then I
will want a professional clarinet. Is it better to get the R-13 while I
have the money? Even if I stop in 3 years, which I don't plan to, is
the R-13 worth it? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.

__________
Ben Stutzman
benstutzman@-----.net

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