Klarinet Archive - Posting 000311.txt from 2003/04

From: b1rite@-----. Rite)
Subj: Re: [kl] new here
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2003 00:34:08 -0400

.....well, messages that are difficult to read don't encourage answers,
but in general....

You get what you pay for. The keys on a $100 instrument are going to
bend or bind or not close the holes properly, the intonation (pitch of
various notes in the scale) is going to be hit-or-miss, and so forth.

Each of the "big four" clarinet manufacturers offers a $400-$500 student
instrument which will give you a decent opportunity to learn to play.
These companies are --- in no particular order --- Yamaha, Selmer,
Buffet and Leblanc.

At the student level, you can save $100-$200 by buying a used instrument
in good condition; but as a beginner, you have no hope of distinguishing
between 'good' or 'bad' condition yourself. You'll need the help of a
dealer or teacher who is truly knowledgeable and who truly cares that
his/her customers get started with a playable instrument. Not all
dealers and teachers fit this description.

There is always the occasional beginner who gets lucky, or the expert
who has looked at hundreds of instruments and can recognize the
exception to the rule when it comes along, and therefore pays $100-$200
for an instrument that proves to be playable and durable. But as a
beginner, you don't have much chance of identifying one of these
fortunate instruments by yourself.

Good luck,
Bill

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