Klarinet Archive - Posting 000952.txt from 1999/07

From: "O'Neile & Fisher" <redcedar@-----.au>
Subj: [kl] Buffet Clarinet - Specification Pitch
Date: Sun, 25 Jul 1999 17:21:15 -0400

Is there anyone on the List who can tell me why Buffet build their Prestige
(and Elite ?) model B-flat clarinets to a specification pitch of 440, and
all the other B-flat models, and A Basset, to a pitch of 442?

I have been variously told that the difference has to do with different
regional market requirements eg. European, American, etc.; different musical
applications eg. classical, jazz, military, etc.; a long-term phased
manufacturing change-over at the Buffet factory; an attempt to build
lower-end instruments for novice players with an under-developed embouchure.

These explanations seem implausible.

Is anyone able offer an explanation for the difference? And, do other
manufacturers also produce differently pitched B-flat clarinets?

Michael

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