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Update on Backun Cadenza

Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2006-11-22 14:41

As some of you know from the couple of threads that are running right now I've just purchased a Leblanc/Backun Cadenza. I've had a few days to play-test it and will make a few comments as to my personal observations. As a disclaimer, I'll add that I only have one Cadenza and have not compared it with multiple Cadenzas. I did not have Woodwind and Brasswind send me more than one to try (which I normally do). So, it's just off the shelf with no hand-selection whatsoever. Also, I don't know a lot of technical stuff about the acoustics of the clarinet, so this review is my personal experience as a semi-pro player. I have, however, played clarinet for over 45 years and have played many, many different brands over those years.

That said, here's my impression of the Cadenza:

It's a great value for someone wanting to step-up into the artist/pro class of playing. Morrie and Leblanc have done a great job with the package you get right out of the box. A player purchasing the instrument won't have to worry about anything else because the Cadenza comes with 2 fantastic Backun barrels and a very nice mouthpiece. It is packaged in a lightweight, backpack type case, so it's perfect for people who have to carry a lot of things around with them and don't want the extra weight of a hardside case.

I found the tone to be excellent throughout the range of the instrument. It didn't have perfect intonation, however, as I don't think any clarinet ever has, but it is one of the best I've tried right out of the box. Overall intonation was very, very good and I think with a few minor adjustments and familiarization of the ear to the instrument it is one that is equal to or better than most clarinets that are much more expensive--including the Buffet R-13. I found the 66mm Cocobolo barrel the best on intonation with the tuner.

It has great, easy volume and a wonderful, flexible tone that would work with any type of playing. This is not only an orchestral clarinet, it would is a perfect choice for jazz and big band as well because of the big sound that comes easily with this instrument.

I did not personally like the mouthpiece for my own playing, but it is a much higher quality than standard stock mouthpieces--more like a Vandoren 5RV or other step-up mouthpieces. I am used to my Kaspar mouthpieces and Kaspar-style mouthpieces by Walter Grabner and Greg Smith, and switched back to my personal mouthpiece right away. The tone of the Cadenza mouthpiece was too bright for my taste.

The key-action is very quiet and the keys are well constructed. The instrument is very nice to hold in the hand and it plays very fluidly. I'm impressed with the overall feel and balance of weight when playing. The keys were also very responsive. It made practicing "Sleigh Ride" a joy.

My bottom line evaluation is that this is going to be a big hit for Leblanc and Backun. It is a fantastic clarinet for under 2,000.00 (if you buy from wwbw or other discount stores). List price is $2,200.00, but I paid just under $1,800.00 for mine. I think it's a much better buy than a standard Buffet R-13 because I've always had to have additional barrels to make my R-13s play in tune and to help "over the break." And, unless you are a Kaspar die-hard like me, you'll love the mouthpiece.

Kudos, Morrie and team!!

I'm going to post some photos of my Cadenza for your viewing pleasure.

Post Edited (2006-11-22 16:14)