 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Jeff
Date: 2000-11-24 19:56
I've been playing on a low quality Bundy plastic horn for years. I plan on playing thru college (graduate in 2003) then join a local ensemble in the particular area I end up in after graduation (i.e. Metropolitan Wind Symphony in Boston, etc.). I am definitly in the market for a new Bb (pro) horn (probably a $1400 price ceiling currently). (In general) Do semi-pro/pro ensembles require players to have a specific brand/model, or just a "high quality" instrument? I don't have much opportunity to try different horns and compare them. Are there any that you "just can't go wrong with"? From what I have seen, the Buffet R-13 is an EXTREMELY popular choice. Any general suggestions for an all-around good horn that will fit my future playing plans?
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Author: Lindsay
Date: 2000-11-25 03:27
Hey Jeff--
As for your question about ensembles "requiring" a specific brand for its players, as far as I know, that's not true at all. Now I guess it would depend on which ensemble, but generally, as long as you can play with a good mature tone, exceptional technique, and good musicality, they could care less what horn you play. I've even heard stories that pros have used plastic horns to see if anyone noticed the diff, and most didn't, LOL.
And as for your horn purchase....if you're only looking to spend about $1400, I'd go with the R-13 (which i'm not a fan of) they run about $1700 in WW&BW, last check. Also, there are several LeBlancs that run around there...namely the Infinite and the Esprit and the Sonata...all decent horns. My horn of choice is the LeBlanc Concerto, however, at it ran me about $2300 with silver plated keys. I absolutely ADORE it, and I'd recommend it to anyone in the market for a great horn.
Hope I helped!
Lindsay (feel free to email!)
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Author: Fred
Date: 2000-11-25 04:25
It sounds like you are a bit isolated geographically - not much opportunity to try out different horns. That makes it tough. With a $1400 ceiling, you could get an exceptional used horn and a pro mouthpiece - but then you'd need to be where the horn was available. Can you network with a friend in a metro area? Or maybe through a dealer that specializes in clarinets? I'd hate to see you spend that much money and not get something pretty nice.
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Author: torvald
Date: 2000-11-25 05:52
If you're in Boston, you can go over to Rayburn Music Co (www.rayburn.com) and try out some clarinets. It's right next to Symphony Hall.
you can also go to some place lie Albert alphins (not sure about spelling...). He's a repair person over in Needham and he sells woodwind stuff too.
there are quite a few other places that will let you take out lie 6 clarinets at a time to try out.
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Author: Bob Curtis
Date: 2000-11-29 14:59
Jeff:
Definitely try out the instrument before buying it. If it doesn't fit you, you will be sorry. That is one thing I have learned over the years that you must have an instrument with which you feel comfortable and then you can really go for it. Good luck in your quest.
Bob Curtis
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