 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: stevethemusicman
Date: 2009-02-08 15:18
Hi All,
I just joined this group and I am excited about starting the clarinet again. I was a very good clarinetist back in the late 60’s. I went to the High School of Performing Arts and then I was in the Army Band playing Clarinet and Sax (tenor) and later on the Electric Bass. Once I left the service I got married to a lady trumpet player I knew at Performing Arts.
We both stopped playing. Back in the 70’s I went back into music learning keyboards so I can write and have been doing that on and off since then. I write a lot of songs and have a few jingles running (well I know of one, make that two that are still running).
Recently I convinced my wife to start playing her trumpet again and she loves it. She suggested I get a clarinet. I do have a Yamaha WX5 and the VL70-M Modeling synth but she wants me to have a real one to play duets with her and perhaps play in an ensemble or orchestral band locally.
So, my question to you is what is the cheapest I can get away with to get a decent Clarinet? I always had a Buffett (had to sell it and my Mark 6 Tenor to pay the mortgage in the 70’s) but I know I cannot afford one now. So any suggestions? I want to keep it under $500.00 if I can.
Thanks,
Steve Lewis
Steve Lewis
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Author: feadog79
Date: 2009-02-08 20:03
You could look at the Andino clarinet, which I know is sold by Woodwind & Brasswind. I haven't played it, but have heard many favorable comments. Same for the Forte (Google "forte clarinet"). Others on the forum have said favorable things about both instruments, but I haven't played either one. To me, both instruments seem to be of quality design for an affordable price.
I like Ridenour clarinets, myself. There is a student model for $625 (I think), but his older student model can be found on the auction site for under $100. Many here have said great things about it.
Given your budget, these may be some of your best options...see what others here have to say as well. Don't forget a good mouthpiece! I don't know what the Andino comes with. I believe the Forte comes with a Gennusa, and anything you buy directly from Tom Ridenour will come with one of his mouthpieces.
Try before you buy, see what you like the best! You really can find a good clarinet for your budget...you don't have to settle for something poor just because you aren't spending a fortune.
JW
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Author: cxgreen48
Date: 2009-02-10 00:00
If you don't mind buying used, you could definitely get a good used clarinet (maybe from clarinuts.com, a sponsor of this BBoard) as well as buying a good mouthpiece and some reeds; all of these together will cost less than $500.
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Author: stevethemusicman
Date: 2009-02-10 00:51
Hi All,
I would not use it but I thought you'd be interested based on this post. 20 or more years ago I got a Three Star Metal Clarinet at an antique store and by golly it is still in my basement. It is in bad bad shape. I did some preliminary lookup on it and they are still around in the marketplace.
The one I have is totally useless. It needs new pads, springs and some banging out and polishing. But even if I put that money into it I'm sure it will not have the sound I want. Just thought you'd be interested.
If you want I can post a picture of it. I'm still up in the air on what to buy. I know what I'd like to buy (only for looks. I don't know how they play). I love the look of the Patricola Rosewood Clarinet. And even if it great I can't afford it. I'm still on the lookout for a real wood one.
Steve
Steve Lewis
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Author: feadog79
Date: 2009-02-10 12:22
If you really want wood, the Buffet E11 mentioned above might be a good choice. You can find them on the online auction site for a good deal, but be prepared to put some money into having it fixed up (don't believe the description 100%). Personally, however, I think the Ridenour instruments play better.
Also...I think you are correct in believing that it would not be worth fixing up that old metal clarinet!
JW
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Author: modernicus
Date: 2009-02-10 13:22
I would also second not fixing up that one. That particular model is plentiful and cheap in decent shape, so no need to start with something too thrashed.
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Author: Earl
Date: 2009-02-10 13:55
I have been looking for an up grade to the Normandy 4 I got used on line at that auction place 3 years ago. I have been looking there for a couple of months now and have seen a few "good deals" but I just looked at whats available at clarinuts.com. WOW! Great prices and a no questions return policy and a warranty. There's a Buffett E11 for less than they sell for at the auction place. Figures, I just bought a Buffet Evete yesterdsay.
Earl
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