The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Laura Jean
Date: 2006-01-07 14:23
so i've been playing my begginer instrument far too long and have finally decided to invest in a more advanced instrument. i've been playing for the past twelve years and have dabbled in everything from jazz to classical and am looking for a very versitile instrument. the problem is, i have no idea what instruments are worth my time. i'm looking for a clarinet with a good bold, round sound. something that doesn't sound tinny when i play bach or sound silly when i improv over a walking bass line. any suggestions on where to start? thanks
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2006-01-07 14:27
Have a look for or try out a Selmer 'Centered Tone' - they may be old, but they're good.
Or a Leblanc LL.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
Post Edited (2006-01-07 14:28)
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Author: Don Berger
Date: 2006-01-07 14:59
I'm a devotee of the old school [horns, that is] also, Chris, there must be some VG NEW cls for "all-around" playing, just dont know of them ! Perhaps the newer "big-bores", Leblanc's Big Easy successor to the Pete Fountains and some of the "super-pros", may be desireable and affordable. Leb's L series were generally good, I believe, and their Dynamics 2 and H are worth considering in the used markets. Many good players like the Selmer 10's, lots to look at !!! Don
Thanx, Mark, Don
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2006-01-07 17:44
I agree about the Leblanc LL. If you can find a really good L7, they're a less expensive model that doublers love.
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Author: Bnewbs
Date: 2006-01-08 19:00
If you can find an good old Selmer 9*, 10, 10G (my favorite older horn for sure) that would fit the bill. Selmer BT's CT's and 9 series play to much like a Jazz horn for me (and often have tuning issues with new mouthpieces). I think the Pete Fountain's are really a Jazz horn, I find them to be to hollow and phat sounding for any classical work. In terms of new horns Selmer St. Louis and Leblanc Concerto II would be fantastic if you are willing to throw down almost $3000.
Ben
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Author: Jack Kissinger
Date: 2006-01-09 04:35
Here's my first rule for purchasing a "front line" clarinet (i.e., the one you will be playing as your no. 1, perhaps for the rest of your life):
Unless you are into some sort of original instrument movement (classical, trad jazz, klezmer) or can't afford anything else, never buy a clarinet that's older than you are.
If you buy a relatively new instrument, it can grow old gracefully along with you. Old instruments are, at best, old technology and, at worst, have had plenty of opportunity to develop problems, e.g., misaligned or worn keywork, warped bore,etc.
IMO, a new or relatively recent used basic professional model from any of the major manufacturers, (Buffet, Yamaha, Selmer or Leblanc) should be more than adequate for any style you want to play and, with care, will last you the rest of your life.
Best regards,
jnk
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