 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: kthln.hnsn
Date: 2013-05-31 20:30
I have been trying to find an affordable A clarinet and have been quite unsuccessful! I am finding it hard to find model names for clarinets since when you type "A Clarinet" or "Clarinet Key of A" into a search engine, it comes up with just that: a clarinet, just any old Bb model. Maybe it's just that not a lot of them are for sale right now. But anyways, I would like your opinions, what is a good Clarinet in A model for a very advanced/semi-pro clarinetist who strives to be in an orchestra? Also, are there any places to find a really good deal on one? (Also any other tips for achieving the dream of being in an orchestra? I don't mean to sound dense with my questions...)
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Author: Barry Vincent
Date: 2013-05-31 20:49
Amati Klarslice Wood and silver plated keys (ACL 675)
Tom Ridenour's Lyrique Hard rubber and nickle plated keys (576BC) ?
Both good quality and 'affordable'
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Author: Ed Palanker
Date: 2013-05-31 21:04
If you want a symphony job get ready to stand in line behind hundreds of others coming out of our music schools each year and those on the audtion curcuit. As far as s good A clarinet, check the ads in this board. If you want a real good one you will probably have to go with a major name brand. If you just want one that might be OK you can go with a lesser name. Check some of the websites of the major on line dealerslike Muncy's to see if they have any used instrumets but be ware, some used clarinets can have intonation problems or other problems. Your best bet might be to contact the orchestra players in your area and ask them if they know of one for sale.
ESP eddiesclarinet.com
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Author: Barry Vincent
Date: 2013-05-31 22:26
* Correction. Tom Ridenour's A Lyrique RCP- 575a
And the Amati is a full Boehm system.
Skyfacer
Post Edited (2013-06-03 02:59)
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Author: MSK
Date: 2013-05-31 22:37
No matter what you get, the A is like to cost much more than the comparable Bb model. Way fewer A clarinets are sold so you lose the economy of scale factor in pricing. Most of the intermediate and pro models from the "Big Four" are available in A as well as Bb versions. I have two friends who would be considered advanced amateurs in community orchestra setting that chose to get A clarinets of lesser quality than their Bb clarinets since the A is used less often. One went with a lower model, the other went with a very vintage but pro-quality pre-R13 Buffet. If you're looking for modern pro-quality used instrument you may need to bide your time a little until the right one comes along. I am very happy with a used R13 I bought from Walter Grabner (he shows up on this board form time to time.) The instrument was completely overhauled which made up for the higher price compared to auction site horns. I did have to a wait a bit for something to come along. He doesn't seem to be a high volume business.
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Author: pewd
Date: 2013-06-01 02:56
FWIW, I play R13's in the symphony, my 2nd chair does also, as do most of the subs I've seen over the years. One played on Leblancs, but I can' remember the model. In any event, professional model instruments. What does your private teacher suggest?
If you're not yet in an orchestra, you really don't need an A clarinet, until such time as you are ready to start taking auditions. Save your money and spend it on lessons, music, and perhaps upgrades to your Bb or a better mouthpiece. Again, check with your teacher.
- Paul Dods
Dallas, Texas
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Author: JackHorrocks
Date: 2013-06-02 18:04
A really cheap A clarinet that is quality, is the Jonathan Myall Fairfield A clarinet. It is available here in England for £325. It might not be much use if you are in America though...
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2013-06-02 18:56
You always have the option of buying a used A clarinet - a lot of A clarinets are up for sale if you look on eBay etc. and are usually in better condition than Bb clarinets of the same age as they don't get used as much.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: rtmyth
Date: 2013-06-02 23:13
I saw one, a Leblanc LX, advertised today. you know where.
richard smith
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Author: kthln.hnsn
Date: 2013-06-03 02:05
Thank you very much everyone for your suggestions, I have looked into all the options that were suggested and am currently watching the Leblanc LX Richard Smith pointed out, thank you btw! If this doesn't work out I will continue my search
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Author: Clarineteer
Date: 2013-06-03 06:12
I am currently in the middle of a total restoration on a top of the line professional Selmer key of A clarinet serial number 78XX that will be superb when I have finished.
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