The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: M. Brand
Date: 1999-10-29 17:52
I recently purchased a Noblet Brass clarinet. It is in good condition, but has moderate pitting and needs pads. I have two questions: First, can someone provide additional information about it, and second, is it worth trying to restore. Its not something I would play, but would probably make a good show piece.
I have never seen a brass clarinet and thought it to be somewhat unique. The finish is similar to a SAX, but this is definitely a clarinet. It is stamped Noblet France on the Bell. It looks like it dates back to the '50s. Any information would be appreciated.
-M. Brand-
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Author: Don Poulsen
Date: 1999-10-29 18:32
I realize that you said it was definitely a clarinet, but could it possibly be a soprano sax? Is it cylindrical like a clarinet with the same keys, etc. or is it conical (getting wider toward the bell) with different keys?
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Author: M. Brand
Date: 1999-10-29 20:10
Don,
It is cylindrical, key of Bb, and it uses Boehm Fingering. It looks just like any other metal clarinet, except it is a nice shiney brass/gold color. I am a clarinet player, and I have another metal clarinet (Pitt), so I'm positive this is a clarinet and not a sax. I had my repair technician look at it (with many years of experience), and he too had never seen a brass clarinet. Serial #4599 stamped on it.
-M. Brand-
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 1999-10-29 20:19
Many "silver" clarinets are actually silver plated brass, so it seems as if yours is an unplated model.
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Author: William Fuller
Date: 1999-10-29 22:05
I have a Noblet metal clarinet (#242), gold lacquer like a sax with silver colored keys and a detachable "barrel." I had my horn repaded and, although it will never replace my Concertos or R-13s, it is an excellant playing instrument. I have used it on some jazz gigs and someone always asks me questions like "what is that--a sop sax?" Good luck with yours!!
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Author: Dee
Date: 1999-10-30 03:00
The Noblet should be fairly decent. This is essentially an intermediate level rather than a beginner level clarinet. I have a Noblet metal and it plays rather nicely even though the pads do need replacing.
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Author: Willie
Date: 1999-10-30 04:19
Sounds like you got a good one there. I have a brass laquered Holton with silver keys that is gorgeous but sounds terrible compared to my silver Elkhart. Hopefully I'll have some time to refine it this winter. I spent some time working and refining an old Jeffrey and that all it really needed was someone to sit down with a tuner and some tools put the notes where they were supposed to be. Go for it!
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