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Brannen Woodwinds

Author: JamesOrlandoGarcia
Date: 2009-08-17 16:11

I just had my clarinets serviced by Linda Brannen and the Bb in particular was in really rough shape. It had a massive crack that went through the register all the way down to the thumb tube. The clarinet was pretty worn in terms of pads and adjustments, it was long over due for maintainable.

I had my mind set that I would just need to purchase a new Bb as soon as possible but when I tried my Bb after it was worked on I was amazed at how well the clarinet played. I should note this isn't the first time I've gone to the Brannen's.

I'm sure there are a lot of great repairman out there but the Brannen's just go beyond one's expectations every time. I'm so lucky to only live a few miles south of them!

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Re: Brannen Woodwinds

Author: Ralph Katz
Date: 2009-08-17 23:54

I was spoiled as a teenager by a gentleman named Cass Burris, who worked out of his basement in Detroit after a car accident put an end to his career as a trumpet player. He did wonderful work, and an hour of his time usually didn't cost $10. Even then, this was ridiculously low. (Note: the clarinetists I knew during that era were cheapskates - did it wear off?)

Disclaimer: The folks who have worked on my instruments in the last few years have done great work

What attracted me to the Brannens is that you can give them an instrument with a picking list of issues and they will return an instrument as you have described. Their calling cards are this completeness, and punctuality. For Pro's, the extra cost is more than offset by peace of mind.

I can't afford them now, maybe later. When gigs pick up to the Brannon-overhaul-a-month level, things will be different. An extra day of downtime isn't a problem for me, and there is a measure of loyalty to the folks who have done good by me in the last few years, who charge lots less.

But, there are people who charge a lot more, too.

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