The Clarinet BBoard

Re: Case culture

Author: WhitePlainsDave  Date:   2016-06-14 22:52 I think things in the clarinet world are similar to that you describe in the violin world with these exceptions: There's likely more consistency in a manufacturer's particular brand, likely due to more automation in the production process, that the manufacturer can order a particular design of case interior knowing it will be good for not only all the clarinets of that model, but likely most others of the same size for not only that manufacturer, but across competitors. There are of course exceptions. Soprano "A" clarinets have slightly larger upper and lower joints than do Bb instruments, and Basset clarinets (typically "A" clarinets with a slightly lower range than "regular" "A" clarinets) have a slightly longer lower joint than their regular "A" counterparts. "What cases are used? " ..the one the manufacturer provided, sometimes another one of the manufacturer or a 3rd party designer. Some cases, like Pochette style cases offer little room for supplies so players choose larger cases, or case covers to not only protect the case, but hold gear. Buffet's Pochette double case, and perhaps other manufacturers (made by, at least originally Jakob Winter cases) that provide/sell Pochette cases require the bell to remain [partially] attached to the lower joint--which turns some people off and leads them to buy other cases. There are middle of the road 3rd party cases, like BAM--rugged and reliable, there are discount ones like Allora (which people sometimes don't like for its high Styrofoam content,) and there are Wiseman cases, considered some of the best, especially if you like tube shaped cases. (Quickly, this conversation will turn into this, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anwy2MPT5RE, substituting "cases" for Monthy Python's spam) Yet still further there are cases never designed for instruments used. I have a double sided firearm case I put each of my sopranos in for gigs where I need both, because its tiny and fits inside my larger gear case. There's people who make their own cases, and cutable foam https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=kaizen+foam to form fit pieces. I like repurposing cases. I say this in answer to the joke, "what's the difference between a case with a treble clef on it (a music case) and an ordinary one." (The punch line being $100) Then there's cases for doubles and triplers, sometimes playing not simply Eb clarinet, but flute, saxophone, and multiple varieties thereof. "Do most players stick with the factory case?" I'll say yes. Most "A" clarinet cases come as double cases to store your Bb as well. I'm not sure if you'd consider that switching cases. Some people covet "Golden Age" Buffet clarinets whose cases have long since been disguarded due to wear. "Most of the aftermarket cases I see online seem to be tiny things with no room for music and other accessories." I've addressed this by putting the tiny case in a larger one with wheels and my gear--a half size TSA approved under the seat one. Others buy larger cases, or do both. "What do reasonable adults use and why?" I'm sorry. I can't answer that. I am a clarinet player and my way is the only right way . Joking aside, reasonable adults should use a case that doesn't accidently open, protects the instrument well, provides the ability to hold supplies, and/or fit inside a larger case that holds supplies. As for what each of us considers a reasonable list of supplies.....volumes have been written on this topic alone. Then there's issues with clarinets and the TSA--keeping reed knives away from on board carry ons, etc.. Aaron, with humor, I have to comment on how your question is way to broad . I might be inclined to narrow this down to "what case do you use on a Thursday night, with clear skies, in the summer, where's humidity is present, for a symphonic band concert" and hope for < 50 replies .

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