 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: SALT
Date: 2001-06-12 06:11
I'm going off to college as a music ed. major and I was wondering if I should consider investing in a new clarinet. I'm still using the clarinet I got in sixth grade, an Artley that was made in 1991. With it I'm using a Vandoren B45 and Vandoren reeds, usually 3.5. Do you guys think this will be fine or should I seriously consider a new instrument? Thanks for your input!
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 2001-06-12 06:15
Seriously consider getting a new instrument unless this is a magical Artley. They're not held in good repute. I'm having a hard time believing you're still using it as a promary instrument - it's a lot of work to play in tune on that thing, I'll bet!
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Author: John Gould
Date: 2001-06-12 08:30
If you don't have the $$$ for a professional-level horn (Buffet R13, Leblanc Concerto/Opus, etc), the so-called mid-level "step-up" horns can be quite nice for the money (selmer signet, evette sh). Also look for postings on this site for how to select a horn, lots of reliable information. Good luck.
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Author: William
Date: 2001-06-12 14:44
Two very good "intermdeiate level" instruments to consider: the LeBlanc Sonata and the Buffet E-11 clarinets. IMHO (in my humble opinion, even though I am not always that "humble") it sounds like, judging from your mp/reed set-up and the implied fact that you having been doing ok and probably sound good on your Artley, that it would be worth your while to try to obtain a quality, pro-level clarinet such as the LeBlanc Concerto or a Buffet R-13. These instruments are just as good second-hand as they are new, but I recommend avoiding Ebay and that you go to a music store where you can "try before you buy." In any case, stick to the "Big Four"--LeBlanc, Buffet, Selmer and Yamaha and their related student lines, if you must. As a side note, Joe Artley, the man for whom your clarinet is named, once acted as my host at the Selmer facility in Elkhart, Ind. and helped me select a Selmer series 9* clarinet that I used in college for a while. Good luck in your selection and good clarineting in college. Above all, enjoy and have fun!!!!!!!!!
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Author: Bill
Date: 2001-06-12 14:53
The only thing I'd add is to wait until you get to college before you buy. You've waited this long, so wait a little longer and see what other's are playing and what your teacher(s) recommend.
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Author: Ken Shaw
Date: 2001-06-12 18:25
SALT -
You'll definitely need a better clarinet if you become a performance major, and even as a mus. ed. student, you really need to get a pro-grade instrument just to get respect from the parents of your eventual students. You'll also play better on a better instrument.
However, as Bill says, you should get the help of your college teacher in picking out a new clarinet. One of the advantages profs have is access to the good stuff, plus the ability to help you pick out what's best for you.
Reading between the lines in your posting, you seem to know which school you'll be attending. I suggest that you get in touch with the clarinet prof there, explain your situation and ask for advice. Teachers like to be asked for advice -- they feel flattered. If this one is like most others, he/she will move heaven and earth to find you a good horn at a good price.
Good luck. Let us know what you end up with.
Best regards.
Ken Shaw
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Author: clar21
Date: 2001-06-12 22:48
Everybody in my college clarinet section as at least an R-13.
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Author: SALT
Date: 2001-06-13 16:32
Thanks everyone for the advice and yes, money is a factor. My parents have been supporting my brother in college for three years and this year we'll both be in school. I think I'll take the advice of Ken and Bill and wait until I get there and ask the professor what they think but I'll start looking around now so I can sort of know what I might like. Thank you all very much!
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