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Author: SKW
Date: 2006-11-21 19:25
I have my Pruefer Clarinet that my parents purchased for me in 1959. It is an Artist model with a number 60603 on it. My youngest daughter played it in Jr. HS and as a freshman when her conductor didn't like the sound of a wooden clarinet. It has been stored in a closet since 1990. All original pieces are still in the original case. The case is worn but locks still work. The case was protected by a canvas cover. Trying to decide if I want to have it repaired for my usage and fun or to have it repaired and donate to a young band member. Cork at joints, OK. Keys need to be shined and I'm sure pads need to be replaced. The only damage I see is on the bell where the bottom metal band goes around, it's cracked but still in place. The wood at this area seems OK.
Is the clarinet worth repairing?
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Author: pewd
Date: 2006-11-21 21:10
a wood pruefer sold on ebay 3 days ago for $31
it more than likely will need a full overhaul, $250-350 or so.
if it was my first clarinet i'd probably restore it and keep it for sentimental reasons.
you should have a good woodwind repair technician look at it and give an opinion as to its condition and estimate what it would take to make it playable.
- Paul Dods
Dallas, Texas
Post Edited (2006-11-21 21:12)
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Author: Dee
Date: 2006-11-23 13:29
When my daughter started band, I had several older clarinets available. I took them to a woodwind repair guy to have them evaluated as to which one would be the best choice. This was an older fellow who had been in the business for many decades. He recommended that we go with the Pruefer as it was a good quality instrument and worth repairing. He said that it would be head and shoulders above any beginner instrument (which would cost about the same as a complete overhaul). If it just needs a repad, that would be less.
Whoever got that Pruefer on eBay for $35 got a real bargain even if it does need a complete overhaul.
I'd say get it overhauled and play it yourself. Get involved in a community band or small ensemble. It's time for you to have fun for yourself.
By the way you said your daughter's band director DIDN'T like the sound of wood clarinets?? That's most unusual. Could you elaborate on that?
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