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Clarinet from Tenor Sax?

Author: TripleB
Date: 2013-01-17 21:04

I played the Tenor Saxophone in middle/junior/high school (total of 7 years). Unfortunately that was 27 years ago. I just started up with the tenor again and am really enjoying it.

I'm thinking of venturing out to another instrument...probably either the clarinet or the trumpet (I know, 2 very different instruments).

As far as the clarinet is concerned, is it a difficult instrument to learn (for a 45 year old)?

Are there any "semi-cheap" models you would recommend?

I know Etude has a super cheap one (ECL100) that get's decent reviews, but I'm sure for $110 it isn't much of a clarinet.

Thanks for any and all help.

TripleB

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Re: Clarinet from Tenor Sax?

Author: Chris P
Date: 2013-01-17 21:32

The best thing you can do is find a clarinet specialist teacher in your area as the embouchure and other technical aspects of playing clarinet are very different to tenor sax. It's important you learn with a clarinettist as a teacher as they will show you the correct embouchure so you'll be able to play up to pitch. So many sax players that have taken up clarinet but not had instruction from a clarinettist will often play flat and then have the barrel shortened to compensate, but that's not the best thing to do.

Then get yourself a reputable student model clarinet to learn on - either a Buffet B12, Yamaha YCL-250 or 255 or similar entry level plastic clarinet as these are well made instruments.

Later on you may want to upgrade the mouthpiece, so a Vandoren 5RV Lyre (not the "13" Series) is a good one to start with as it's got a close tip opening which will help with the high notes.

Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.

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Re: Clarinet from Tenor Sax?

Author: tictactux ★2017
Date: 2013-01-18 00:15

Chris P wrote:

> Then get yourself a reputable student model clarinet to learn
> on (...)
> Later on you may want to upgrade the mouthpiece

I'd go the opposite direction - be sure you have a decent mouthpiece to begin with - Fobes Debut, Behn Ouverture or Hite Premiere come to mind, they're all in the same low sub-$40 price range and play exceptionally well.

I concur with Chris about getting a reputable student clarinet, but as you (or at least your internet provider) is in the U.S., also consider getting a Vito or a Bundy - despite being "student" instruments, they're good players. Just make sure they're in good repair.

The thusly saved money is then best invested in a good teacher. :-)

--
Ben

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Re: Clarinet from Tenor Sax?

Author: William
Date: 2013-01-18 14:37

Yes, find a teacher to get you off on the right foot--or embouchure. Beginning clarinet is a lot like beginning the game of golf--it's easy to hit the ball, but distance and direction (tone quality and pitch) are best realized with a correct grip of the club (embouchure) and effective follow-through (breath support). After sax, beginning the clarinet can be more of a challenge--it's much easier the other way around, clarinet first, then sax. Get a teacher to help you get started and you might even break par.

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