 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: bogzi
Date: 2008-07-03 05:43
I need some advice...
I am going to be a first year music major at the university that i am transferring to and my professor told me that I should look into buying a new Clarinet.
I mostly play bass clarinet but I own a plastic bundy that I have used for Marching band and recreational playing for about 8 years. I need a more professional model for recitals, concerts and things like that but the only brand that I really know of is Buffet.
Keep in mind I am a college student and I am broke, that kind of comes along with the territory. So because of that I am looking for something that is alot "bang for my buck." Of course it needs to be wooden and I would like an adjustable thumb rest.
Thanks in advance.
:-)
Post Edited (2008-07-03 08:09)
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Author: rtmyth
Date: 2008-07-03 13:17
A used TR147 could be the one, but try before buy, or have refund policy. I bought two for around $50 each years ago. They have excellent intonation.
richard smith
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2008-07-03 13:40
I'm assuming you're wanting a wood clarinet? There are many on the market that can be had for fairly reasonable prices. A good used Buffet E-11 can be found for anywhere from 300.00 to 500.00 USD. Your prof would probably approve of that choice because, as you said, Buffet is a well-known instrument. It is not the only choice, nor do you have to have wood, but you want economical and reliable--so that's my recommendation.
A Lyrique by Tom Ridenour is also a good choice, but finding one at a good price is probably not going to happen. He has a student model for under 700.00 USD. They're not wood, but they are excellent instruments and used by many pros (the pro model, that is).
Others will no doubt add their recommendations, so I'll stop there.
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Author: DavidBlumberg
Date: 2008-07-03 13:55
No E11- smaller keys than the R-13 (lower stack).
There are a couple of new Leblanc "Julian Bliss" Models which should be pretty good and are under $1000. Consider trying one of those or the Lyrique as others have mentioned.
http://www.SkypeClarinetLessons.com
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Author: Ebclarinet1
Date: 2008-07-03 14:07
bogzi,
If you're going to do the music major thing then you really do need something much better than a Bundy. Unfortunately the prices and even availability of the good ones present a real problem right now. Some of my friends used some of their student loan money for this purpose and because it is required for your major this could be one to buy now pay later for it.
If you are seriously looking for a horn and need it soon I would contact all the vendors and tell them your situation. Buffet low C bases are hard to come by these days so if that is the horn of your dreams you should start inquiry now. If you are serious about studying bass then you really do need a low C horn. Even a lot of the band literature now uses these notes. Of the major brands Yamaha is the least expensive and I have heard good things about it but i have never played one myself. The Selmer and the Buffet are sort of an apples/ oranges thing in terms of sound, keywork and intonation. You would be wise to play both to test this out. I love my Buffet but there are days when I wish I had the beefier Selmer sound too.
Anyway, good luck!
Eefer guy
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Author: pewd
Date: 2008-07-03 14:57
>Your prof would probably approve of that choice
speculation. ASK the professor what brands/models are acceptable to his studio.
if you're going to be a music major you need a professional instrument. there is a lot of competition out there, get the tools you need to help you to succeed.
- Paul Dods
Dallas, Texas
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Author: claritoot26
Date: 2008-07-03 17:48
I agree with Paul, ask the professor to see what his recommendation is. Try to find a good used professional horn, like Buffet R-13 or comparable model in Yamaha, Selmer, or Leblanc. You'll likely get a better quality instrument for the same price as a new intermediate model. As always, try before buy, and it's helpful to have a teacher or other clarinet expert help you select.
Lori
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Author: Tobin
Date: 2008-07-03 18:03
Bogzi,
What are your goals for your music degree? If you are contemplating getting on the circuit and competing for symphony jobs you need to bite the bullet, take out the loans and buy a professional horn of whichever brand you choose.
If your intentions are more modest than there have been many fine suggestions above. I would second trying Tom Ridenour's products, but would also suggest looking for a good used horn to get you by. Your new instructor may have (or may connect you to) a used instrument worth the money.
It's a bummer, but regardless of your financial situation you need good equipment to help facilitate your advancement.
James
Gnothi Seauton
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Author: bogzi
Date: 2008-07-03 23:03
Thanks for all this great advice. I am going to look into some of these suggestions and talk to my professor about what she thinks I should get.
:-)
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Author: Ed Palanker
Date: 2008-07-04 03:24
I’m confused, what type of music major are you going to be? I’ve never heard of a music major being accepted into a good music program without having a good instrument to begin with. I’m assuming you are a music ed major so you just need a decent instrument to learn to be a good musician and play in the ensembles. If you’re a performance major I think you have to take a good look at what you’re doing because you not only will need a very good bass clarinet but a good Bb and A clarinet as well, unless you’re planning of becoming a bass clarinet soloist. Lots of opportunity for those,
I would look for a good used instrument but your college professor needs to help you with this. It’s one thing telling a student they need to up grade, it’s another thing helping that student find what they can afford. ESP www.peabody.jhu.edu/457
(Listen to a little Mozart, live recording)
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Author: bstutsman
Date: 2008-07-05 06:03
Several good suggestions above. Again, talk to the professor and find out what he recommends. Additionally, have him help you actually pick out the instrument. Let him play on it. If you have been playing on a Bundy and bass clarinets, I would not trust your own judgement alone in picking a good instrument. Each time I get a new instrument, I use at least one teacher to help me in the selection.
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Author: bogzi
Date: 2008-07-05 08:58
Thanks I will do that. You are right, I really havent had any experience picking out horns. I am looking at a few and I will call her to see if she will actaully play them for me.
:-)
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Author: bogzi
Date: 2008-07-05 21:33
My Professor told me today that she suggests that I get either a Buffet R-13 Or a Buffet Festival. She is going to actually help me pick one out, so next stop... shopping!
Thanks to you all.
:-)
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Author: Brenda Siewert
Date: 2008-07-06 21:52
That's a good thing. Either of those two would be exceptional instruments that you could use for years and years. I use the silver keyed R-13, but I've owned Festivals and they are both good choices for music majors.
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