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The mystery of Leblanc 176

Author: Bill
Date: 2026-05-25 18:01
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Over a decade ago I got a Leblanc "176" Bb from a gentleman who found it in a estate sale in California. I've read numerous things about different Leblancs but little about this model.

I didn't *need* a Leblanc clarinet as I had an early "Symphonie" and a wonderful "Dynamique" even earlier than the "Symphonie," the former restored to pixel-level glory as only Vytas Krass could do.

I decided to buy the instrument because it came with an especially elegant calf-leather case (that I later ruined by putting it out in the sun's UV rays just before a summer downpour) and a Chedville "STEEL EBONITE" mpc. Also with the instrument were a small cache of business cards from the man who, it seemed to me, was surely the original owner and someone who treasured the clarinet ("William E. Doyle"). Still today I have those business cards in my desk. I get rather anointed and spooky about these matters.

It plays. It tastes like cigarettes and something else acrid and potentially poisonous. I'm still happy with my purchase, as these sorts of instruments tend to find me, like stray dogs.

Would love to hear from anyone who knows about Leblanc "176" and loves theirs, as I do.

Bill Fogle
Ellsworth, Maine
(formerly Washington, DC)

Post Edited (2026-05-25 18:05)

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Re: The mystery of Leblanc 176

Author: m1964
Date: 2026-05-25 23:30

https://www.woodwindforum.com/clarinetperfection/snleblanc/#ql_Model176

*** I just overhauled an early LL (1964) and it is a such a lovely instrument- both mechanically and tone-wise. Tuning is very good as well.
They were played as much as R13s and Selmer 10 back in the day. Too bad Leblanc France is not there anymore.

Post Edited (2026-05-25 23:33)

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