Klarinet Archive - Posting 001230.txt from 2000/06

From: "Charles S. Mims" <charles@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Looking for information on my horn
Date: Tue, 27 Jun 2000 21:48:17 -0400

From: "Dee D. Hays" <deehays@-----.net>
>As far as I know, Selmer has *always* marked their horns with brand and/or
>model. If there are no markings on the clarinet, I highly doubt that it is
>a Selmer Bundy or any other model of Selmer. Of course sometimes >markings
>do wear off, but if you hold it at an angle under good light, you should be
>able to see the impressions. Many times you can even read the words if you
>look closely enough.

Well, you made me curious so I brought out a strong light and studied this
thing closely. I've had way too much time on my hands today! Anyhow I find
no traces of stamping on either the barrel or the bell. I also noticed that
there is only one serial number, it seems that I vaguely recall other
clarinets having a serial number on the top middle piece and the bottom one
too.

>It's possible it might have been a new instrument. I've seen a few listed
>as having wood bodies but resonite barrel and/or bell. If your aunt was a
>kid in school at the time, it is also possible that some other kid switched
>parts with her instrument without her knowledge. With no makers name on
>it,
>there is no way to find out who really made it.

Now that makes some sense. I suppose that is possible. I can accept it may
be a mystery I never solve! <G>

>Why do you say it was hard to play even when in good condition. Any
>clarinet (good or bad) should be easily played if all the pads seat right.

It's hard to blow, even with new pads it leaks like a sieve. Also to be in
tune the barrell has to be out about 1/4 inch making the tuning note in
tune, but the rest of them horrendous. It takes continuous embochure
adjustments to keep the notes in tune. I used to be able to do that when I
played all of the time. It will be a long time before I can do that again!

>Some do come with really bad mouthpieces that make it difficult to
>impossible to play but that can be cured with a different mouthpiece.

The mouthpiece is a HS*, and is not the one that came with it. I do need a
new mouthpiece though this one has seen better days.

>My own opinion is that since it is a no name instrument, you are better off
>buying a new beginner model from one of the major makers (Selmer, >Leblanc,
>Yamaha, and Buffet), especially since it needs a complete overhaul. The
>major mail order dealers sell these beginner models for under $400. Or you
>could look at new or used intermediate or professional models. If you go
>the latter route, have a knowledgeable clarinet teacher or player help you.
>Again stick to the four major makers.

I really would like an intermediate horn. I'm seriously considering taking
private lessons for a while to get back in shape.

Charles

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