Author: Irwin
Date: 2001-04-10 11:45
3 weeks ago I demo'd a Concerto. Last night I demo'd an Opus (which I'm definitely keeping). Regardless of claims that the two are accoustically identical, my experience which no one can refute is just the opposite. There is a huge difference between them. The Opus produces a rich, deep and powerful sound while the Concerto is very bright and light, and, I think, more suitable to jazz. I'm not saying the Concerto isn't a fine instrument, but it's just not my cup of tea. The Opus also seems to have more heft to it, and I don't know if this is due to denser wood (as even Leblanc says that the grade of wood in the Opus is superior to that of the Concerto), but perhaps this is a factor in the tonal difference from the Concerto. Another factor is that my Opus was hand picked by someone whom I've come to know and respect, Brenda Siewert. One thing I've read time and time again on this bulletin board is that the playing characteristics of a clarinet will vary even among clarinets of the exact same make and model. If this is the case, then it's reasonable to believe that there are just as many differences between different models.
Finally, a word about Brenda. Dealing with her was a delight. What you see is what you get, and what you don't see but readily sense is that she's someone who LOVES everything clarinet and wants others to share her experience. That personal touch (including hand selection of all instruments she sells) is often missing when dealing with retail establishments, and for that reason, I would recommend her to anyone looking for a new instrument. You can't go wrong with her!
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The Clarinet BBoard
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