 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Joanne
Date: 1999-04-29 01:47
Can anybody help me identify an old Albert system clarinet? It has no maker's name or serial number. It's blackwood, 12 keys + 2 rings (right 2&3). It's either a Bb high pitch or a C low pitch. The bore is slightly narrower than a modern Bb - fortunately it came with the original mouthpiece (also blackwood). The register key curves around to the front of the instrument and closes on a metal post. The A/G# keys are similar to modern design, but move independently - no adjustment screw. The springs are mostly flat, but some needle springs. There are 2 RH side keys - the trill key also opens the Eb/Bb key. The left E/B key is a simple 2-piece hinge. The pads had all been replaced (badly), and the corks were old & dry.
Can anyone guess the age of this instrument, or the maker? I'd appreciate any info!
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Author: Joanne
Date: 1999-04-29 05:59
For a picture of a very similar instrument, see "nice old French rosewood clarinet" on ebay.
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Author: ron
Date: 1999-04-29 06:32
Joanne;
If the RH pinky operates the C,Eb(F,Ab) keys with one pad for each key it's very likely a 'simple (Mueller) system' horn because of only two RH 'trill keys'. With no identifying markings, we'll have to leave it to experts (there are many knowledgeable collectors on this BB) to take it further. There may be some key characteristics, shape, hand crafted or molded, or something like that to give you a clue.
I have one, a LP instrument. They're interesting and fun but not noted for being easy to play. Fingering is somewhat awkward compared to an Albert system. It's probably pre-1910 anyway - earlier if it's a high pitched instrument.
Hope you find out more than I can guess at. Also, you might try posting the question to EarlyClarinet@onelist.com. There are many knowledgeable people there.
Thanks for sharing.
Ron
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Author: ron
Date: 1999-04-29 06:36
Joanne,
Saw it. It's a 'simple system'.
Ron
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Author: Joanne
Date: 1999-04-29 16:00
Thanks for the info Ron. What is the difference between Albert & Muller systems? I always thought the terms were interchangeable.
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Author: ron
Date: 1999-04-29 17:07
Hi, Joanne -
To many people the terms are interchangeable but, 'technically'(?) the difference between Mueller and Albert horns is the number and configuration of keys and rings.
Some early Alberts had the same two ring lower section and C,Eb(F,Ab) right pinky keys. While the Muellers C,(F) key is usually a single lever pad key on 'top' of the instrument, the Albert was changed so that the pad was moved to the side like the modern Boehm.
The Alberts had generally developed the right upper section 'trill' keys to three, to include a middle one for the throat F (T,1 +R middle trill) instead of the Mueller's T,1,3 (LH), which is a little 'stuffy'. Two rings were also added to the Albert's top section, I think for a better sounding E(?). The Albert was 'upgraded' again to include a so called patent C# mechanism. (Well, I don't know, maybe it was patented). An additional pad next to the C,F pad allowed the long (articulated) B,(F) key alone (w/all open holes closed) to produce C#,F#. A great improvement to make playing up-tempo pieces easier.
To the best of my knowledge neither the Mueller nor the Albert had an adjustable A key screw. You have to press both of them on some horns to get a clear A.
Fascinating, huh?
Hope this helps. Also, if I've made a mistake(s) somewhere (yep, I've been known to , or left something out, I hope someone will correct me. But I think this is generally accurate.
Ron
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