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Wow this thing is old!

Author: blazian
Date: 2012-12-12 16:11

I'm currently playing on an ancient Buffet Carl Fischer A clarinet. The serial is 1k380 which places it from 1916. It's recently become important that it's playable because I just started playing in an orchestra. The problem is that there's a huge difference when I switch between it and my Bb (a Festival). The problem isn't really the 92 year age difference but the differences in playing characteristics. My A isn't nearly as consistent as I'd like. For example, the Ab and A are SO shiny that I have to put all six fingers down, while the longer notes like clarion B and C are stuffy. While it's not impossible that it's leaking, it seems that the stuffiness of some notes are due to something else.

Should I look into getting a new A clarinet soon? I'll only be part of the orchestra for a few more tours but I am a music major for two or three more years (or more past my undergrad). Or should I have the clarinet serviced and play it until it crumbles into dust? It seems like a great clarinet for its age. I think its only on its second set of pads.

- Martin

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