Klarinet Archive - Posting 000684.txt from 1999/03

From: dhughes@-----.com (David Hughes)
Subj: [kl] OFS: Vintage (1930's) Selmer Bb/A Pair Extended Boehm
Date: Thu, 11 Mar 1999 21:21:04 -0500

I have recently come into possession of an A-Bb pair of Selmers (only
identifier is "Depose SELMER LOGO France) from the 1930's. In my opinion,
these horns are in extraordinarily good condition: a real "find."

The instruments come from the estate of Jim Russell (an East Bay,
California, teacher and player who passed away last Fall). I am helping to
"find good homes" for these (and other horns: a Buffet Bb/A "pair" from the
late 1950's) and to get good prices for Jim's widow.

The serial numbers of these horns are "L3976" (Bb) (1933) and "L5585" (A)
(1935) (thanks Sneezy!). The A is in great condition (it looks like it has
hardly been played), the Bb has a loose post in the lower joint. I have
played both horns (after tapping in the post on the Bb) and they are
wonderful. All pads cover, but a new padding, cleaning, oiling, and
regulation should make them superb. The key work has a goldish, clean
patina: there is some dirt between keys and a spot or two, but no
corrosion. There are quite a few minor scratches on the wood, but no
cracks, checks, bands, or pins.

To my surprise, they play (dare I say it) like Buffets. I have no trouble
playing them in tune. The throat tones are not stuffy when using modern
barrels.

The set appears to have the original barrels for both horns. However the
Bb barrel (65 mm) has probably been bored out (the bore gauge falls right
through!). Both rings on both bells are loose, but I expect they would
tighten up if played.

The A is interesting, in that it uses a 68 mm barrel (as opposed to 64 mm),
meaning that the upper joint is much shorter (about 1/4") than modern A
clarinets. (It took me a while to notice: I was really playing sharp!!)
The original A clarinet barrel is adequate to play in tune, but you would
want to get a new one for serious playing (I got a great sound with a
Buffet 68 mm barrel). There are tuning rings.

Both horns have both low Eb keys and alternate "spatula" keys for Ab/Eb.
They do not have articulated C#/G# keys.

The French oboe-style (looks like a Loree case) double case appears to be
original and is in very good condition. Included is a new Cavallaro
"fleece" cover (which I have removed because I like the old case better).
The original leather handles are slightly frayed, and there are some
scuffs. The blue velvet inside is a little faded, but not torn. The
Selmer logo on the case looks brand new.

If interested, please e-mail or telephone. I would expect to sell them to
a clarinet player only after a satisfactory trial period, presuming
shipping can be arranged. I can e-mail a picture.

David Hughes (703-560-7835)

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