Klarinet Archive - Posting 000826.txt from 2000/11

From: "Kevin Fay (LCA)" <kevinfay@-----.com>
Subj: RE: [kl] Selmer buys UMI
Date: Mon, 27 Nov 2000 10:45:34 -0500

Roger Garrett wrote:

<<<. . . I'm glad that Buffet didn't stop designing new models when they
made the 1193-1 bass clarinet. The next version, 1193-2 is simply light
years beyond any other instrument made right now. Up until this model,
the Selmer and Buffet diehards were in a constant state of defense.
Now, there is clearly a better instrument.

I wonder if Bb/A clarinets will follow the same path? One thing is for
sure - if we accept that clarinets can't get any better, they probably
won't - especially if no one makes new ones!

But........as I recall, the issue wasn't so much the current makers
adapting and improving designs, it was new competitors in the
marketplace. So my example may not be part of the thread afterall.>>>

I don't think that the Bb/A clarinets have finished their development.
Indeed, we've seen more new models in the last few years than the prior
half-century. Buffet, Leblanc and Selmer all have introduced new
designs recently (the Elite, Festival and RC, Concerto/Opus and the
Signature). New entrants to the market include Rossi, Eaton, Howarth,
Patricola and now Guy Chadash.

It doesn't matter whether the development is performed be an established
maker or a new entrant. What does matter is that it continues. Will
there be a design breakthrough? Perhaps not -- but I wouldn't foreclose
the possibility.

kjf

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