Klarinet Archive - Posting 000146.txt from 2005/11

From: Steve White <bass.clarinet@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Contra Alto Clarinet Recommendations Wanted
Date: Wed, 09 Nov 2005 13:12:35 -0500

That all looks like good reasoning to me. The Eb contra is usually
preferred for a variety of reasons. Mostly I prefer them because of the
easier crossing over of parts from bass cleff instruments.

A school probably will not want to purchase an instrument from anyone
but an authorized dealer or legitimate business. So the vaunted auction
site may not be an option - though deals can be had from time to time on
the rosewood Selmers. (Been a few on there in the last few years that go
for *almost* budjetable amounts)

That said, I wouldn't see the need for anything more than the Vito and
Bundy level of instrument. They sound fine and are solidly built. Be
advised that smaller people will have to sit on phone books or something
else to have the proper playing position. The LeBlanc metal instruments
are fine, but are more finicky (In my humble experience).

I am not aware of any other options, but that does not mean that they do
not exist.

I hope I haven't muddied that waters further.

Steve White
Whittier, CA

On Wed, 2005-11-09 at 09:46 -0800, Gary Van Cott wrote:
> I play in a community college band (much more community than college). The
> clarinet section has been stronger than usual this semester and it occurred
> to me that we could use a contra alto clarinet. I am presuming that if you
> only had one, a contra alto would be better than a contra bass, because it
> would be cheaper, somewhat easier to maintain, and I believe there are more
> parts for it.
>
> I suggested the contra alto to the director after the rehearsal and he
> thought briefly and said, yes, it was a good idea, and they are working on
> budget right now.
>
> So I need to get him some recommendations for instruments. I looked at the
> Woodwind and Brasswind website (for reference) and they have the expensive
> Buffet and Selmer Paris instruments listed for about $12,000 and Vito and
> Selmer USA for about $2,000. I am not sure the college would want to spend
> $12,000. Are there any other options?
>
> For those of you who have had experience with these instruments, which do
> you recommend?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Gary
>
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