 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: howard miner
Date: 2001-09-12 18:28
I plan to shop locally for a clarinet. I played a Bb clarinet from age 12 'till 20. I am now 69, and would like to see if I can still handle it. I thought I was pretty good, (solo chair all-city band and orchestra), but the mind and body are slowing down.
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Author: David Spiegelthal
Date: 2001-09-12 19:02
Howard,
What's your budget? Buying new or used? A clarinet in working condition can run from, say $200 to well over $2000. Reputable new clarinets, even plastic student instruments, will start at around $300. So perhaps you should first choose your "price point" (as the marketing folks say), then I'm sure the people on this bulletin board will positively INUNDATE you with well-meaning but frequently conflicting recommendations. Good luck!
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Author: Anji
Date: 2001-09-12 19:30
Hiya Howie!
Drop Dave a line, too. He has good horns available with liberal trial terms.
You should be able to find a decent LeBlanc LL for $700, a Selmer Centered Tone for under $1000 in your locale. Anticipate repairs on most horns, unless you're buying from a music shop.
For my money, I would look for an older hard rubber instrument. They were built to make the sound you remember and are really undervalued.
A decent mouthpiece, pocket fulla reeds and a few lessons should put you back in business!
anji
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Author: ron b
Date: 2001-09-13 07:12
Hi, Howard -
Welcome aboard!
We're in the same age group. I'll be 66 before too long. Took up the horn again three or so years ago and am really enjoying doing it again after a nearly thirty year 'vacation'. Played off and on some, not steadily like now. I think you'll find that it'll come back pretty fast. I need to work mostly on embouchure and breathing. Fingering was so well imprinted when I stopped I didn't have to review much at all. Your situation may differ from mine, of course, but you'll quickly discover which area(s) you need to focus on. If you play Boehm system, used (reconditioned) Bundys or Vitos from a local dealer with some kind of warranty (a year maybe?) look like a pretty good place to start. They won't drain your wallet too bad and they're decent.
We seniors (there are quite a few of us here) may be a wee bit slower in mind and body but we have less distractions : You'll be okay, I'm sure.
I thought at one time I was pretty good too. You oughtta hear me now... (a splendid example of what lousy Really is : )
Seriously though, it's all about having fun and enjoying making music. It's nice to meet you, Howard. Have fun.
- ron b -
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Author: Bob
Date: 2001-09-14 14:49
Hi Howard: I'm 71 and started playing again during the past year and was quite surprised how well I regained everything. I purchased an all wood Amati ...new...for under $400 and am perfectly happy with it and thus can highly recommend it. I can't understand what appears to be an aversion to this make in the U.S.
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