 The Clarinet BBoard
|
Author: EaubeauHorn
Date: 2015-05-10 23:09
I'm once again hacking away at learning a new instrument, this time clarinet. I had rented at different times a couple of Yamaha 250 (255?) models....one had a reasonably good scale and the other not so good, despite being the same model. Both went back, for various reasons. However a friend sent me a 1950s Bundy plastic clarinet to mess with, and I bought a Fobes Debut mouthpiece, which made quite a difference. To my ear, it has a very good scale. Next Christmas time when the sales are on, if I am still at it, I'd like to upgrade to what a decent amateur would play. My problem is that I see comments about a scale that is "good enough for a student or amateur" as if they did not need, even more than a professional, an instrument that plays in tune without having to do extreme gyrations. So the question is a bit of two questions.....what models have a reputation for an excellent scale (I am professional on other instruments and a good scale is an absolute must for me or I can't stand to play it) and why would an instrument that is supposed to be initial training for a player NOT have the best possible scale designed into it? Why train young musicians to hear a bad scale as correct?
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Paul Aviles
Date: 2015-05-11 06:09
Amen brother !!!!!
I always say get the best equipment you can reasonably afford. The better the instrument, the easier it will be to create what you want.
I'm a bit surprised that you found flaws with the Yamahas. Usually a good company at all levels.
The much maligned Bundy is actually a decent horn along with the Vito.
My choice may be controversial in it's newness to the market, but I am really liking the entire Uebel Boehm clarinet line. Their "intro" level horn starts at around $1300 US dollars (if you're in that ballpark), but it has silver plated keys, all leather pads, decent tuning (an odd but GREAT characteristic is that the first space "F" is dead in tune rather than flat) AND a great resonant sound. Of course I think their top of the line is amazing but it is also $4300.
...............Paul Aviles
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: MSK
Date: 2015-05-13 03:01
If you are a professional musician you are probably aware of some of the inherent tuning issues of clarinets and the amount of discussion devoted to brands of clarinets, barrels etc. Presumably some of the features that improve intonation in the higher end instruments are just not that economically practical at the student price point. Also students tend to play flat so many beginner instruments are intentionally built sharp. I have to pull way out when I use my son's marching / beginner instrument.
That said, I agree that students should start on the best intonation instrument that they can afford so that they do develop the correct ear. Also they will get accustomed to making the appropriate unconscious embousure adjustments and won't have to relearn when they upgrade. I read on this BB about one person who had to really adjust to a professional quality instrument with especially good intonation because he had gotten used to adjusting to a more typical instrument.
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: ClarinetRobt
Date: 2015-05-13 21:26
I love my Ridenour Libertas. It has the qualities your looking for, but it's more expensive at $1750.00. The Uebel is also a terrific instrument.
http://www.ridenourclarinetproducts.com/libertas.html
Ted Ridenour is a nice guy and might work out a payment plan for you. I know they have occasional (if not all the time) opportunities for financing at 0%.
~Robt L Schwebel
Mthpc: Behn Vintage
Lig: Ishimori, Behn Delrin
Reed: Legere French Cut 3.75/4, Behn Brio 4
Horns: Uebel Superior (Bb,A), Ridenour Lyrique, Buffet R13 (Eb)
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
The Clarinet Pages
|
 |
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
