The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Vytas
Date: 2003-12-19 19:02
I need some info on a vintage LeBlanc Bb clarinet. (Model) "176" appears just above the logo on the UJ. Any info will be appreciated!
I guess, this instrument was made in the early 50's at the same time as original "Symphonie Model"
PS
This is not a LeBlanc 1176 LL model.
TIA
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Author: Douglas
Date: 2003-12-20 19:07
Vytas, I thought I could help with your question by getting out some old Leblanc catalogs, but could only come up with a couple of ideas. The lowest model number for a Leblanc labeled clarinet came from a 1956 catalog which has a model 476 which is also identified as the "classic". (I know it still is not the 176 you are looking for.) Second clue: early models of Leblancs until about 1955 had the letter "G" in the G. Leblanc trademark on the body of the instrument with the G. on the same line as Leblanc:
(G. Leblanc). and after about 1955 the G. is placed above the Leblanc, centered in the line above it as: G.
Leblanc
This may help you identify when during the 50's your clarinet was made. My understanding is that the Symphonie was the first model Leblanc produced and the next was the Dynamique with all the Symphonie II's. Dynamic II's, Classics etc. coming a bit later. So, my guess is the same as yours, that the clarinet you have is an early Symphonie model.
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Author: JMcAulay
Date: 2003-12-20 20:37
Vytas, might the "1" in "176" actually be a "4"? I sure haven't looked at everything on Earth, but I never saw a Symphonie with any numbers at all on it except the serial.
Regards,
John
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Author: Vytas
Date: 2003-12-25 19:42
Attachment: Leblanc_176.jpg (125k)
Attachment: Leblanc_176b.jpg (73k)
Just completed an overhaul on this instrument. To my surprise "176" plays better than the "Classic". The "176" has small, 14.62mm bore. "Classic" –14.80mm. Judging by serial numbers the "176" was made just before the "Classic". My guess about 1954. (the serial number on the "176" is 75XX on the "Classic" - 95XX).
I'll try to add some pics.
Vytas Krass
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Author: Clarence
Date: 2003-12-26 05:50
Vytas,
I have searched cyberspace from one end to the other and the Leblanc 176 hasn't shown up. I used the following search engines:
MSN, Dogpile, Yahoo and Google
I also searched for info on early Leblanc Symphonie models and only found good pictures on the completed auction section of ebay. I used:
MSN, Yahoo and Google
I also found a user named 'Jim' on this BB who was looking for information about a Leblanc that had 176 on the barrel. No one responded to his request.
I will respond to your reply to my post in the morning. I have to get some pictures of my clarinet at my business and will post a picture if Mark doesn't voice his objection.
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Author: Bradley
Date: 2003-12-26 06:44
Vytas- that looks like an amazing overhaul....
Looks like new.
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2003-12-26 07:05
I was going to remark on the overhaul as well. This clarinet looks GREAT for being allegedly 50 years old. I wonder if I have enough money when I'm older they can make me look brand new again . . .
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: JMcAulay
Date: 2003-12-26 07:23
Only if your moving parts are nickel silver, Alexi.
Post Edited (2003-12-26 07:24)
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Author: Ray
Date: 2003-12-26 19:14
I second (third) the praise for the beautiful work. Would you be willing to share your polishing techniques and perhaps how you did such immaculate logo work?
Thanks,
Ray
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