Author: echi85
Date: 2017-10-27 23:36
I earn a comfortable living playing and teaching the clarinet. I play with two professional orchestras. Combined, they fill out a full season of playing. I have commented on the other thread so I think it's appropriate that I say something about my qualifications.
Honestly, I don't really care what clarinet you choose to play on. Neither do any of the other people I work with. All that matters is that you sound good and play in tune. Problems only arise when people start spouting out false information based off of their personal opinions. In these cases, I feel it appropriate to point out their flaws. The whole idea that Buffet is losing market share to other manufacturers is one of these ideas.
As to your second question, I think the clarinet world is, and will be for the foreseeable future, an industry lead by those who can do. That is say that those who are employed as working musicians will influence the larger amount of enthusiasts, amateurs, and students. If you live in any major city and are looking for clarinet lessons, you will probably go to those in your local orchestra or university. It's unlikely you will search out an amateur or enthusiast. There's also just less credibility studying from an amateur vs a professional.
I made a comment in the other thread about how nearly everyone in the US plays Buffet. This is crucial because the in-demand teachers (orchestral musicians) will influence what the next generation of players (students) play on. Certainly amateurs and enthusiasts have some sway, but not nearly as much as those who are employed. The fact of the matter is that most people play Buffet and most people will continue to play Buffet. I've yet to see any evidence of the contrary.
I would be interested to see the numbers, but I doubt I will ever have access to them. I also doubt that any major manufacturer cares about what is posted on this Bboard.
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The Clarinet BBoard
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