 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: TwrlGrl
Date: 2000-01-08 16:57
I have two questions-
#1 - I am going to purchase my new clarinet from the International Musical Suppliers. They let you pick out up to three clarinets to try. I was wondering which clarinets I should try out. I have picked the LeBlanc Infinite, LeBlanc Esprit, LeBlanc Sonata, and Buffet R-13.
#2 - I tried out for All-Region on my clarinet and alto clarinet and made the band on both. I was wondering if I should play 1st Chair Alto Clarinet or 2nd Chair Clarinet.
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Author: Dave Goss
Date: 2000-01-08 18:09
Typically it's a good idea to settle in on a model, then use the three instruments to pick exactly which one you like. Amongst different clarinets that are the same model, eg. the R-13, there will be variations. I'd suggest going to a local music store and play on all the models that they have, including the ones you've mentioned. Then have International Musical Suppliers send you three of the same model. Play on them and decide exactly what model. Also double check how IMS deals with the three instrument plan. Most of the time you have to pay FULL price for all three instruments and return two within a specified time for a refund.
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 2000-01-08 20:37
Dave Goss wrote:
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I'd suggest going to a local music store and play on all the models that they have, including the ones you've mentioned. Then have International Musical Suppliers send you three of the same model.
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If you use your local music store that way, then I'd beg you to please buy them from your local music store. Otherwise, I think it's only fair to use the mail order house exclusively, and pay the shipping, insurance, etc. that will be required to send any number of clarinets back & forth.
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Author: J. Butler
Date: 2000-01-08 22:54
I agree with Mark. I don't know how many times I've worked on a clarinet or saxophone from a discount mail order service and the customer expecting me to honor the manufacture warranty and do the adjustments for free! I'm not joking here, some people get put off when I tell them to send it back and have it done where they bought it if they want it done for free, otherwise they are going to pay me for my services. I usually get the "Well your company is a ----- dealer aren't you? Why can't you do the warranty work.?" Just something to consider when purchasing a new instrument.
J. Butler
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Author: Kim
Date: 2000-01-09 00:01
I personally feel that the first clarinet parts are more fun because there is more difficulty. I have never seen bass clarinet parts though, so I can give you that point of view. However, being second chair in an All-State band is quite prestigious!
As for the clarinets, I would try the R-13, sonata, and infinte. The R-13 is probably the most preferred clarinet over the other brands. I can't really say much about the other two because I don't know much about them. Good luck!
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Author: HTW
Date: 2000-01-09 02:19
About chosing between soprano and alto- it depends on what you want-
Alto generally has background/bass parts, and occaisionally you'll find yourself with a short soli if you're lucky. You'll have parts like the bass clarinet, baritones, french horns..ect
In soprano, you'll get most of the melody- or at least wind up harmonizing on it while the first plays the melody. But this way you get a shot at first chair one day.
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Author: Dave Goss
Date: 2000-01-09 13:40
Mark you do make a good point. I try to patronize local music shops as much as possible. I realze that without our buisness then there would be no place for me to demo clarinets, or buy a box of reeds. If you can get a good price from a local shop then definately go for it!
As J. Butler pointed out if you have a problem, working with a mail order place can be difficult. It's nice to have a store to physically go to.
The problem that I'm facing (I'm shopping for a new clarinet right now) is I have found that local shops are often a LOT more expensive than mail order; sales tax may become an issue as well. This can add up to several hundred dollars, so it may be difficult to justify going to a local shop.
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 2000-01-09 14:54
Dave Goss wrote:
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The problem that I'm facing (I'm shopping for a new clarinet right now) is I have found that local shops are often a LOT more expensive than mail order; sales tax may become an issue as well. This can add up to several hundred dollars, so it may be difficult to justify going to a local shop.
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I wholeheartedly agree. I travel to Chicago to buy instruments since the local shops' prices are outrageous and they're not willing to bargain (nevermind not having any depth to their stock).
What I was saying is using your local music store as a "tryout" place without the intent to buy there is, in my book, wrong. I can normally tell within 10 minutes whether or not I want to buy in a particular store - if letting a salesperson know that I know alternative pricing makes them walk away :^)
As to sales tax in the US - you do know that you're still liable for the tax, right :^)
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Author: TwrlGrl
Date: 2000-01-10 01:21
I also have another question
Which is better? Silver plated or Nickel Plated Keys
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Author: Dee
Date: 2000-01-10 02:09
TwrlGrl wrote:
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I also have another question
Which is better? Silver plated or Nickel Plated Keys
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Neither is "better." They are just different. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Neither one affects the sound however.
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