The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Firebird
Date: 2007-07-26 11:06
Hello,
I'm wondering if there are any clarinettists who use Frank Hammerschmidt instruments around here. From what I gather, not many people here use the instruments, and I would like to gather some feedback regarding the Frank Hammerschmidt clarinets, especially the Boehm system with the German bore.
Thank you.
Chan
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Author: Synonymous Botch
Date: 2007-07-26 12:25
I had the great pleasure to use a set over a long weekend last year.
I found the fit and finish of the mechanics to be impeccable.
I found the resistance to be MUCH higher than my Ridenour clarinets, of traditional French design - a lighter reed was necessary.
I found the range of dynamics limited.
I can't recall the critic - "You blow in this end, and sound comes out that one."
Not a great degree of flexibility.
The extra keys allow faster appegiaturae, but I had loads of squeaks as a result of mishandling the extra keys.
FYI - These are hideously expensive in the United States.
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2007-07-26 13:14
I'm still kicking myself for not bidding on a Hammerschmidt reform Boehm that went for a considerably low price.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Firebird
Date: 2007-07-26 14:16
Chris P wrote:
> I'm still kicking myself for not bidding on a Hammerschmidt
> reform Boehm that went for a considerably low price.
Really where?
Referring to the 17 key 6 ring Boehm, not Reform Boehm system.
Chan
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2007-07-26 15:53
"Really where?"
It was on eBay several months ago, and I hope the lucky owner is enjoying every single playing minute with it.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: ABerry
Date: 2007-07-26 16:42
Synonymous Botch,
>>I can't recall the critic - "You blow in this end, and sound comes out that one."<<
I read recently, Larry Combs said something akin to that about Wurlitzer clarinets…
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Author: RodRubber
Date: 2007-07-30 06:18
There is a gentleman in Washington DC, and also the author of a interesting guide to reedmaking, mr Ron Vasquez, who plays exclusively on Hammerschmidt, viennese clarinets. He is a an accomplished handmaker of reeds which he claims to be apr. strength 6!
His tone is really a lot like viennese clarinetists i've heard. It is a differnt approach, but clearly can be succesful. In my opinion, the sound of german system viennese clarinets, and boehm versions are not identical. there is a difference.
Wurtlitzer reform boehm clarinets are unbelievable instruments and if you have an oppurtunity to play one, especially under the guidance of someone who knows what to do with one, you should take take advantage of it. I was fortunate eough to be able to do just that and it was a rewarding experience.
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Author: Chris P
Date: 2007-07-30 08:51
Yep, I once tried a Wurlitzer reform Boehm (while the owner tried my old Centered Tone) and it left me wanting a set.
Former oboe finisher
Howarth of London
1998 - 2010
The opinions I express are my own.
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Author: Firebird
Date: 2007-07-31 03:07
So, in your opinion, how does Herbert Wurlitzer instruments compare with those by Frank Hammerschmidt?
I never had a chance to try the Wurlitzer line, but I thought the Frank Hammerschmidt line of clarinets sounded excellent, even with a wrong reed; ie Vandoren Rue Lepic 56 3.5+ with the mouthpiece that came with the instruments.
Chan
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