What is a clarinet
The clarinet is a musical instrument classified within the woodwind family with metal pistons. Its place in the orchestra is in the group that includes flutes, bassoons and oboes, also woodwind instruments.
it's also considered an air instrument, or aerophone, with a simple reed. The reeds are used in clarinets and saxophones and their vibration produces the sound. The clarinet is capable of producing some of the most varied nuances in the entire woodwind family.
History of the clarinet
There is evidence of ancestors of this instrument in the Middle East, which consisted of a simple scale of seven natural notes. However, the history of the clarinet dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The chalumeau or salmoé, a wind instrument very similar to the clarinet but with a simple scale, was popular in Europe at the time.
Subsequently, a key system was added to the same chalumeau to obtain notes of a higher octave, together with a just fifth. This is how the first clarinet was born, a more complete instrument in European music.
Under the guidance of Johann Christoph Denner, the clarinet took on an increasingly larger form, with the inclusion of other keys and the contribution of other luthiers of the time. By the end of the 18th century, Denner's instrument already had two and a half octaves.
During the same period, Mozart composed his most important work for clarinet. The instrument used by this musical genius had only eight holes and five pistons or keys. And he himself considered the clarinet to be an expression of the human voice.
Evolution of the clarinet
Some historians have found it difficult to determine the ancestors of this instrument. But we believe it possible to pinpoint three predecessors that are most closely related to it. These are:
- Salmoé: as mentioned above, its use dates back to the 17th century, just before the emergence of the modern clarinet. Also known as chalumeau, this instrument was quite basic in its construction and had only one octave of notes with a single reed.
- Arghul: it was a double reed instrument dating back to about three millennia BC. it's still in use today, although it's not very popular.
- Launeddas: this was a somewhat more complex instrument and dates back to just over two millennia BC. It had three tubes and can be classified as woodwind.
Of these instruments, the closest to the current construction of the clarinet is the salmoé. Regarding its evolution, we can say that it went from having only one octave to having two. The fingering system has changed and two are still used today: the Boehm and the German, both with particularities but equally functional. Keys were also progressively added to make certain notes easier to play, such as C# and F#.
Clarinet parts
The parts of the clarinet are divided into two large groups containing several sub-parts each:
Body
The body is made entirely of wood and consists of four elements:
- Mouthpiece: this section contains the reed. The air column enters through there, which will later be modified by the reed and the keys.
- Bell: the part where the sound comes out after being processed by the reed and the keys.
- Barrel: located just after the mouthpiece and allows articulation between the mouthpiece and the upper part of the body, known as the upper tube.
- Top tube: this section is vital because it contains the octave key and is where the left hand is placed to maintain control over the instrument.
- Middle tube: this is the part that contains the rest of the key mechanics and is also where the right hand is supported.
Mechanics
The clarinet and other woodwind instruments have two methods or mechanics that differ from each other. These systems are the French Boehm and the German oehler. However, we will only broadly-describe the general mechanical parts.
- Reed: one of the most important parts of the clarinet. it's a reed that is used to shape the sound and achieve many of the different nuances or techniques that have been created for this instrument.
- Pistons or keys: these are pushbuttons with plates at the opposite end that cover the holes of the instrument when actuated. Through this action the different notes of a given musical scale are achieved.
- Octave holder: a key located at the bottom of the upper tube. it's the one that allows access to the notes of the scale but one octave higher.
- Thumb rest: a piece of metal used to support the thumb. Its purpose is to provide balance in the grip of the instrument.
Depending on the system, we can find clarinets that have a C# key or modifications in the mechanics to improve the response of this key.
Types of clarinet
Clarinets can be classified according to the mechanical system and tuning.
Depending on the mechanical systems
- Boehm: it's the most used system in Europe and was created by the flutist Theobald Boehm. It has a more open bore, and the position of the holes is designed for acoustical advantage and not for the benefit of fingering. The mechanics of the keys facilitate fingering with large, normally open cymbals, as well as with a rectangular embouchure and a stopper for the instrument's headstock.
- Oehler: this is the system used in Germany. It incorporates a key for C# and a key for B flat. It also has three rings for the lower body system and an F-key that improves the instrument's resonance and ventilation.
Depending on the pitch
Like other woodwind instruments, the clarinet has a family composed of several registers that emulate the classification of human voices:
Soprano Clarinet
Its most commonly used variant is the A and F tuning for classical music compositions. While C and B-flat tunings are widely used for baroque repertoire and modern compositions.
Alto Clarinet
Also known as contralto. It has a tessitura one octave lower than the soprano. it's tuned in E flat and is widely used in marching bands and, of course, for chamber repertoire.
Bass Clarinet
The bass clarinet comes in A, B flat and C tunings.it's the largest and most expensive of all clarinets. Its shape also differs from the soprano and alto clarinets in that it has a mouthpiece with a curved and elongated extension. While in the bell part it also has a curvature similar to that of the saxophone.
it's important to note that the bass clarinet is one of the most expensive and has a great importance within an orchestra. Many solo pieces have been composed for it and there is a large number of outstanding clarinetists who are dedicated to this instrument.
Clarinet techniques
These can be categorized as traditional techniques, and ones used in modern music.
Traditional
- Trills: an effect consisting of three sound emissions of the same note but in a fast way. It differs from the triplet in the speed and the written form in which the subdivision of tempos is expressed. Thanks to the key mechanisms, the execution is facilitated. Although the little fingers will always require more dedication in practice because they are the least agile and strong.
- Constant breathing: to perform this effect it's necessary to take a deep breath so that prolonged notes are achieved. Its peculiarity is that in order to go to a new musical note, the continuity of the sound must not be cut and in case of running out of oxygen, an air pocket is created in the mouth. This is accomplished by plugging the opening between the mouth and the respiratory tract with the tongue, so that the air reserve inside the mouth can be used while you inhale through the nose.
- Multiphonic productions: consists of playing a high-pitched sound while decrescendoing to other lower notes, in the form of a scale.
- Flutter-tonguing: the way to perform it's by means of a tongue movement as if we were pronouncing the letter “r”.
- Glissandos: try to start on one note and move to another note above or below it in a sweeping fashion. The idea is to quickly drag or play all the intermediate notes of the clarinet until the target note is reached.
- Smorzato: this effect can be confused with a decrescendo because it tries to make a dampening of the musical notes. it's also used to create a slight passage or transition between two different notes.
Modern
- Dental tremolo: beginners often break a few reeds before mastering this sound technique. It consists of placing the teeth very carefully on the tongue to hit it repeatedly. The use of this technique is limited to modern music such as Béla Fleck and Flecktone.
- Echo: this is a technique that is achieved between two clarinets because one must create a forte sound while the other creates a lighter or piano sound.
- Double sound: for this sound both the clarinet and the vocal cords are used. The idea is to make a sound with the reed while making another sound with the vocal cords.
- Rollender Ton: consists of tapping or pressing with the tongue so that the sound comes out as intermittent instead of struck.
- Lip vibrato: consists of vibrating the lips to achieve a characteristic effect that differs from tremolo in the intensity of the vibration. While the tremolo is light, the vibrato is intense and accentuates each movement with the same force.
Clarinet tuning
These instruments are not tuned because they come with a factory preset tuning. This can vary between B flat, A, F, among others. The important thing is that, with the guidance of a professional, you decide which of these is the most functional for you.
However, this doesn't mean that you should not make certain adjustments to give your clarinet a more accurate A or F tuning. To do this, the barrel is adjusted either inward or slightly outward to produce the notes more accurately. To perform this operation you will need to have a chromatic tuner at hand, preferably one for wind instruments.
The best clarinet players
Chamber music
By this we mean compositions ranging from the baroque to the romantic period, but also modern musical structures that remain within these musical styles.
- Cristo Barrios: is a brilliant Spanish clarinetist who stands out as a concert performer and for winning some of the most important prizes for this musical instrument.
- Martin Fröst: Swedish clarinetist of worldwide distinction as a conductor and composer. He has made great contributions to contemporary chamber music with important Swedish and Russian conductors.
- Wenzel Fuchs: this Austrian performer has been one of the great reformers of chamber music in Austria and Germany.
- Sharon Kam: is an Israeli clarinetist who has stood out as one of the great interpreters of our time.
- Hyacinthe Klosé: he is known as one of the great reformers of the clarinet. His contribution was not only musical but also in the development and application of the Boehm system.
- Karl Leister: this German clarinetist has contributed as a musician but even more as a teacher. In his career as a teacher, he has trained three generations of chamber clarinettists.
- Paul Meyer: is one of France's great conductors and clarinetists.
- Sabine Meyer: is one of Germany's greatest clarinetists and is noted for having interpreted as well as adapted numerous compositions across the entire chamber repertoire.
- Richard Stoltzman: his greatest contribution to the instrument is its dissemination, having played with more than one hundred orchestras around the world. In addition, he has lectured extensively throughout most of the world.
Jazz:
- Sidney Bechet: was an important clarinet player who contributed like no other to the development and dissemination of this instrument among jazz orchestras.
- Eddie Daniels: is a multi-instrumentalist best known as one of the great jazz clarinetists of all time.
- Buddy DeFranco: is considered one of the great jazz clarinetists. Of Italian origin, he contributed to its development and endorsement in the United States.
- Johnny Dodds: his contribution to the instrument was both in technical development. and in promoting it among small bands in the United States.
- Artie Shaw: one of the greatest among the greats for his contribution in the direction of jazz bands and the creation of numerous film soundtracks.
The best clarinet brands
- Yamaha: Yamaha clarinets are of a very high standard and are used by many important musicians worldwide.
- Thomann: this German brand is known for creating beginner-friendly instruments.
- Startone: this is a company from Denmark that has won several awards thanks to the high quality of its instruments.
- Buffet Crampon: one of the great brands in French clarinet manufacturing. Their pieces are excellent and worth every euro invested.
- F.A. Uebel: the brand created by the luthier Friedrich Arthur Uebel, is one of the most reliable for its impressive quality.
- Oscar Adler & Co: this German company is a leader in the design and manufacture of clarinet-shaped dreams. Their instruments are considered top of the line and therefore quite expensive.
- Selmer: there are many reasons to consider Selmer one of the best clarinet manufacturers in the world. Their catalogue for professionals is almost exclusive because it includes exceptional design aspects and materials.
- Vito: this is a brand belonging to the Leblanc company, itself a subsidiary of the Selmer company. Vito is synonymous with products for students but with better quality and prices than the competition.
- Armstrong: this is another brand absorbed by Selmer and its instruments fall under the medium or semi-professional range. Their products are wonderful for intermediate level players who want a mid-range instrument but with high-end qualities.
The best clarinets for beginners:
- Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb
- Yamaha YCL-457II-20
- Startone SCL- 65 Bb-
- Yamaha YCL-255 S
- Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/5
The best clarinets for intermediate and advanced players:
The best clarinets for beginners
Generally, student clarinets are notorious for low quality materials. However, this isn't the case for the ones we have selected. Each of these models not only includes everything a beginner requires for learning, but are also of good quality materials.
Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb Clarinet
The sound is somewhere between classic and modern, making it versatile to a great extent. Very good ergonomics.
The sound lacks reverb .The key system can be slightly out of adjustment.
Technical Characteristics:
- Materials: granadillo(Dalbergia melanoxylon).
- Tuning: Bb.
- Sound: 7/10.
- Weight: 750 gr.
This Thomann clarinet represents an improved version of previous models with a more dynamic system. In addition, it has a sound that is quite agile and versatile, so let's take a look at its interesting characteristics.
Materials
The body is made entirely of grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon). As far as we know, it's is one of the densest, heaviest and hardest woods in the world, supporting 1300 kg/m3. Consequently, it can be quite rigid, as it has an elasticity of 16,000 N/mm2.
On the other hand, the company emphasizes the fact that the drying process is natural. This adds great value because, by not passing through kilns, this wood will keep a more natural sound quality and grain.
mechanics-wise, it's made of nickel silver, one of the most durable materials for the manufacture of woodwind and brass instruments. Although we don't know what type of alpacca it's, some users claim that it tarnishes a bit and has rough parts, so it's possible that it's alpacca 50-30-11 or type two. It has an average durability of ten years if rigorously cared for.
Design
This is a soprano clarinet, tuned to work in B flat and with a total length of 63 cm. It also has two barrels of 5.8 cm and 6 cm so that you can have a greater sound versatility. It also has 22 keys for notes, six different rings and four keys to perform the trill.
These keys follow the German system consisting of a key for C#, a key for B flat and an F key. In addition, the manufacturer claims that this is an improved version, as they have adjusted the mechanics to offer better ergonomics and features an adjustable thumb rest and a ring for the strap.
Another important feature is that the company includes an excellent ESM mouthpiece, with a Rovner clamp and a BG series thumb rubber. It also comes with a cleaning kit that includes deluxe products and a Thomann case.
Ergonomics
Thanks to Thomann's improved design, this clarinet offers a much more ergonomic configuration in terms of keys. Also, the mechanics have a smooth action that allows fast passages to be executed with relative ease.
We also love the four trill keys, that will allow you to perform this complex technique more comfortably. The weight of the instrument remains within the standard among wooden clarinets, with 750 grams approximately.
Sound
All of the above aspects work together to achieve the versatile sound that this instrument delivers: a powerful sound, with more presence of high frequencies since it's a soprano. However, some depth is lacking.
On the other hand, the sustain is balanced, while the reverb is barely perceptible and this may be considered by some musicians as a deficiency. However, this will depend on taste, and the general consensus among users is that it's adequate.
Concerning to the versatility are the barrels, The 5.8 cm is more appropriate for chamber music, while the 6 cm barrel is more suitable for jazz, blues and some modern genres that demand more agile, brighter sound columns and volume.
Conclusion
The Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb is a great option for students. That is why we recommend it as a starter instrument that has a solid construction and an optimal key system. At the same time, it features excellent ergonomics and good sound quality. If you're looking for a clarinet for beginners, this one is a good choice. Find the best Thomann price on this link.
Yamaha YCL-457II-20 Clarinet
It has an impressive finish and the sound is phenomenal.
None.
Technical Characteristics:
- Materials: granadillo wood and alpaca type 1.
- Tuning: B flat.
- Sound: 10/10.
- Weight: 1.2 kg.
As you would expect, the Yamaha company is always true to its quality in construction, aesthetics, sound and designs. This is evident with the Yamaha YCL-457II clarinet because it has some impressive details that are worth studying closely.
Materials
This Yamaha clarinet is made of black grenadine wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) . The qualities of this botanical are ideal for woodwind instruments because it offers durability by being almost impenetrable by moths. In addition, its low elasticity makes it possible to obtain more natural tunes.
The key system is also excellent, manufactured in type 1 nickel silver. This alloy has 52% copper, 26% zinc and 22% nickel to obtain the best possible performance. The different parts of wind instruments are usually joined together using cork (Quercus suber) joints. But this time the company opted for synthetic cork, which offers better performance in terms of durability and acoustic capacity.
Design
This is a Yamaha soprano clarinet tuned to B flat, making it ideal for symphonic orchestras. Its key system follows the German Oehler style with 20 keys and six rings, as well as a standard barrel. It also has a raised and flat spatula for better control of the thumb hole.
Also, this system has an F elevator located on the left, as well as a key for the notes of B flat and B with metal foot rest. It has a key for the notes of the combined with a key for the note of G#. Another welcome detail is that the thumb rest is adjustable and has a ring for attaching the hanging lanyard.
The Yamaha YCL-457II-20 is offered in pack form. It includes a lightweight case with straps to use as a backpack, a BG textile clamp and an M3D mouthpiece that has excellent performance.
Ergonomics
This instrument has all the conditions that facilitate technical performance. In it we can find four trills that are very useful for the C-B, B-A and B-flat-B trills, which are some of the most used in the most important compositions.
As far as key sensitivity is concerned, it's also very good. Their action is delicate, smooth and the finish ensures that they do not clog at any time. Quick phrases are easy to achieve and sixes will not be a problem. With the addition of the keys for F, B flat and G#, the interpretation is dynamic and allows complex passages to be played with relative comfort.
Sound
What we love most about this instrument is how great sound is, because it has a clarity like few others in this range. The sustain is audible and enveloping, while the reverb has a great projection that can afford blues compositions with a richness of premium sound. The keys produce almost imperceptible transitions between each musical note.
In addition, the sound response to the different frequencies is marvelous because the treble, highs and mids are perceived with intensity. This is beneficial for aspiring solo players, as it offers a variety and stability like few clarinets in this range will.
Conclusion
We love this Yamaha clarinet because it has all the important features that are valued in an instrument as personal as this one. The construction is exceptional, as are the aesthetic finishes and the quality of the inner workings. Furthermore, the sound is excellent within this price range and can hardly be beaten by the competition. Find the best deals from Thomann by following this link.
Startone SCL- 65 Bb- Clarinet
Good value for money.
Some models have imperfections in the finish.
Technical Characteristics:
- Materials: ABS plastic, synthetic cork and nickel silver.
- Tuning: soprano in B flat.
- Sound: 6/10 .
- Weight: 476 gr.
Startone has been a benchmark in the manufacture of very affordable instruments for beginners and this is a clear example of that. Its features are basic both in design and materials, but the sound is adequate enough for a student to get started without breaking the bank. Let's take a closer look.
Materials
Unlike the clarinets described above, which are made of granadillo wood, this one has a body completely made of high-density ABS. In general, ABS is used for cheap instruments, although this doesn't imply that they are unusable or are a bad investment. In fact, ABS is more resistant to shocks and more flexible than wood.
As for the mechanics, it's made of high-gloss, type 2 silver-plated nickel silver, the same quality of nickel silver used in the Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb. To close the body joints, the company opted for synthetic cork, just like the Yamaha YCL-457II-20 clarinet. In other words, the only cost reduction is in the ABS of the body. Everything else is the same as other more expensive pieces.
Design
Again, we have a soprano clarinet tuned to B flat but with a significant difference in the key system. It follows the Boehm system.
It consists of 17 keys and 5 rings with two types of barrels of 5.8 cm and 6 cm. This means greater sonic versatility and a dynamic response that conforms to the standards of certain musical styles.
Comes in a pack that includes a mouthpiece with a silver metal clamp, cleaner, key grease and a case with straps so you can carry it like a backpack. In addition, Thomann specialists adjust all instruments before they are shipped. This way you can have a fully functional instrument as soon as you take it out of the packaging.
Ergonomics
The key action is suitable for students and this has been expressed by several users who find the keystrokes pleasant. However, for fast passages it's important to perform preventive maintenance and to grease the system well before use.
Its seventeen keys and two lamps are of very good quality and can facilitate grouping to some extent. However, there are several things you will not find, such as the trill, B flat, E flat and F keys. This can be a problem for beginners but it's also a benefit because it will require more dedication.
Sound
This aspect of the instrument is not rated very highly and can be considered a drawback. Sustain is not what an intermediate musician is looking for, just like reverb. But if you find a high quality tuning and with dedication you can resolve the deficiencies in the sonorous nuances.
Otherwise, the notes are bright and with great volume, and the transition between passages is gentle. The simplicity of the key system doesn't prevent the execution of techniques such as the trill because you only have to practice to achieve it.
Conclusion
This is one of the best options for those who aspire to start in the world of music as students of the clarinet. The construction is solid and the material is quite resistant. The Boehm system will allow you to develop your skills with the compositions common to most orchestras in Europe.
The only downside is the lack of sonic nuances, but sometimes we can't expect the instrument to do most of the work. If you want to buy a decent clarinet for a really affordable price, the Startone SCL- 65 Bb will not disappoint you. Interested? Check out the best deal at Thomann.
Yamaha YCL-255 S Clarinet
Good sound.
Almost all of the materials are cheap and do not justify the price.
Technical Characteristics:
Materials: ABS plastic, nickel silver and synthetic cork.
- Tuning: B flat.
- Sound: 7/10 .
- Weight: approximately 800 gr
This model from Yamaha is what we consider proof that a great brand doesn't always offers equally excellent products. This clarinet is made of materials that could well make it very cheap, but it's more expensive than those of the competition, although it's true that in terms of sound, it stands out more .
Materials
it's quite common to find clarinets on the market made of ABS resin. This helps to reduce production costs and thus offers cheaper instruments. However, that is not entirely true in this case because Startone's proposed SCL- 65S series in B-flat is much cheaper and is similar in almost every way.
The key mechanism is made of type two alpacca metal, the same material used in the Startone clarinet. The surface of the body is covered with a material that is imitation wood. This means nothing because it's only imitation and not real wood, so it still doesn't justify the price difference. However, this Yamaha clarinet weighs over twice as much as the competition.
Design
it's a B flat soprano clarinet and follows the mechanics of the Boehm system. The bell is thinner than on other clarinets in the same range and this tends to produce more vibrant sounds. Moreover, it doesn't have a ring but is a single piece of ABS.
The Boehm system consists of 17 keys and 6 rings, which is sufficient for the academic student. However, if you want more mechanical performance, you should look for the German system. Another curious detail is that it has a sliding thumb rest with a larger surface area and a lanyard ring.
Finally, it includes a Yamaha patented 4C series clarinet mouthpiece, as well as a lightweight case and maintenance accessories.
Ergonomics
For a Yamaha clarinet, and even though it's an entry-level series, we expected more for the price . Instead, we have an instrument with a pleasant and dynamic action but nothing extraordinary. In addition, the Boehm system demands a great technical mastery from the performer. You will not find keys that make it easy to play trills, sharps or flats that are easy to achieve with German mechanics.
Sound
This is perhaps what sets it apart from the competition, because the sound quality is remarkable. The notes have a clarity like few other instruments for beginners. The sustain and reverb are noticeable but not overpowering. Likewise, the transition between fast passages is very good and the notes are perceived as dynamic, agile, and you can execute sixths that will be audible if you mind your breathing technique.
What most distinguishes this clarinet from others is the ability to deliver over-pitched notes, and the thickness of the body ensures sound stability.
Conclusion
As we've said before ,this is an instrument that delivers good sound, but the materials used and the hefty price leave much to be desired. Interested? Check it out at Thomann.
Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/5
The sound is excellent. The fingering is very comfortable and smooth.
Its main materials are inexpensive. A bit heavy for a beginner.
Technical Characteristics:
- Materials: ABS resin plastic, class A nickel silver, stainless steel, buffalo hide.
- Tuning: B flat
- Sound: 10/10 within this range.
- Weight: 1.3 kg.
From this point on, experience becomes decisive because Buffet Crampon sets the pace and takes the lead with a different clarinet. This instrument teaches us that it's not all about expensive materials and luxurious details because what counts most is the quality of the mechanics and the sound.
Materials
This Buffet clarinet has an ABS body. In this case the weight is noticeable with respect to its closest competition, the Yamaha Startone SCL- 65S series. This difference gives it greater resistance to shocks, as well as better sound quality.
The springs have been manufactured from blue steel, a high quality industrial metal used in automotive production. This guarantees durability like no other among competitive clarinets. On the other hand, the key system is made of class A nickel silver. Another interesting detail is that the joints are made of buffalo hide, which doesn't make them more durable, but does contribute to better acoustic properties.
Design
Once again we find a soprano clarinet in B flat. I'm sure you're wondering why we chose only clarinets of this type for the student level. The answer is that these are the most commonly used in chamber orchestras, as well as in jazz and blues orchestras, making them the most versatile.
Buffet's designers incorporated the Boehm system, this time with 18 keys and 5 rings. In addition, it has an Urban Play nozzle that offers an excellent distribution of the air column. It also has a polycylindrical drill equivalent to the E13 series of the same company and a 65 mm barrel.
Another welcome detail is the adjustable thumb rest, as well as a semi-rigid case and accessories for cleaning.
Ergonomics
The fingering of this instrument is remarkable thanks to several factors, the first of which is that the key action is smooth. This convenience makes fast notes quite easy to achieve, as well as the execution of trills without the need for additional keys.
The seisillos will not be a problem because the movement of the notes is dynamic. While the 65 mm barrel offers a powerful and full air column for greater utilization of the Boehm key system. The only drawback is the weight, which can be a bit uncomfortable at first, but the student will get used to it easily.
Sound
This is the best of the Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb-Clarinet 18/5. It has a high quality, long lasting sustain with a good presence and an enveloping reverb. The high notes have a balanced volume that highlights the cadences and crescendos. Also the power of the volume and the barrel opening benefits the interpretation of triplets and trills.
Perhaps the only drawback is that the sound is as classic as they come and this reduces its versatility. However, a good clarinetist will know how to overcome this with the right technique.
Conclusion
This soprano clarinet delivers on what it promises. It has a solid construction and details in materials that benefit the final result as they work together.The sound is excellent and we recommend it for all learning levels. Interested? Check out the best price at Thomann.
Our recommendation:
There are five contenders in our top picks for students and each of them shows us a particular facet of this level and the brand they represent. For us the Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb 18/5 is the winner. All of its characteristics demonstrate that materials that are considered first class are not always what matters, but the experience to combine them and achieve an excellent sound quality.
If your budget is limited, then the Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb and the Startone SCL-65 Bb are a good choice for students who are just starting out in the world of clarinet.
Best clarinets for intermediate and advanced players
These two clarinets we have selected have the features necessary for an intermediate player: superior materials and custom parts that contribute to a great result. Let's see what these two instruments have to offer.
F.A. Uebel 621 Bb-Clarinet
The sound is exceptional. Great ergonomics.
A bit expensive.
Technical Characteristics:
- Materials: granadillo wood (Dalbergia melanoxilon), alpaca, silver, cork.
- Tuning: B flat.
- Sound: 10/10.
- Weight: approximately 1 kg.
The luthier F.A. Uebel's brand has created clarinets of great quality and this model is an excellent example of that. Its characteristics reflect the experience and care that every company should apply to its instruments.
Materials
The first thing that stands out is its black grenadilla wood body (Dalbergia melanoxylon), considered the ideal wood for the manufacture of clarinets. This is due to both its hardness and elasticity that not only achieve the characteristic sound of the clarinet, but also the durability that a woodwind instrument needs.
The manufacturer emphasizes the fact that the wood has had ten years or more of drying. This is important because ten-year-old naturally seasoned woods are reserved for a brand's best instruments. For example, guitar maker Alhambra uses ten-year-old woods for their premium guitars.
On the other hand, the key mechanism is made of silver-plated type A nickel silver. This feature offers great resistance properties, but also adds smoothness to the key action and contributes to a better sound.
Design
it's a clarinet of soprano tessitura and in B flat tuning. It uses the German key system with 21 keys, six rings and two barrels. In addition, it has four trills and two lamps that add agility to the movements. It includes an ESM nozzle created and patented by Ernst Schreiber. it's made of high resistance materials and has a system that improves the air column to achieve a greater sound response.
it's also equipped with a Rovner ligature that provides a better hold and improves the instrument's response to different sound frequencies. Finally, the company includes a semi-rigid case so you can keep your investment safe.
Ergonomics
This is an instrument with a great response in the action of the German mechanism. The agility in the fast movements is really important, but also the response to the flourishes helps the interpreter achieve the most relevant ornaments.
The trill keys have a high response level and facilitate the performance of these valuable arrangements in chamber music and jazz. Likewise, the silver finish of the keys is what makes the action dynamic, responsive to movements and facilitates the movements of solo pieces for both jazz and chamber compositions.
Sound
All of the above is what makes this mid-range instrument sound so impressive. Because it's not at all common to find a clarinet in this price range that has a sound quality of this level.
ABS with this density offers a powerful tone that maintains stable sound frequencies. This is complemented by the RCR.3 mouthpiece which contributes to the production of strong, dark tones that have great volume and depth, ideal for chamber music. It remains only to recommend the use of reeds that have good hardness, as this mouthpiece is strong and will require resistance.
The MK II clamp from Rovner belongs to the premium range, as it offers significant volume. In addition, its tonal response is consistent and with a good balance between light and dark sounds. Likewise, the sonic response is deep and full-bodied to deliver impressive sustain. The reverb is also excellent and all users appreciate this balanced response.
Conclusion
This proposal from the F.A Eubel brand is a great instrument in which all the parts come together to achieve a sound of a level comparable to the high ranges. Although the price of the clarinet is somewhat high, we believe that its characteristics justify it.
We therefore recommend it for intermediate level musicians as well as experts or professionals who want an affordable instrument that they can take anywhere without fear of damaging their five thousand euro-professional clarinet. Interested? Find the best price at Thomann.
Oscar Adler & Co. 322 Bb-Clarinet
The sound is a total blast. Excellent ergonomics.
Expensive.
Technical Characteristics:
- Materials: granadillo wood, silver, nylon and high quality synthetic derivatives.
- Tuning: B flat.
- Sound: Exceptional, 10/10.
- Weight: approximately 1.3 kg.
This piece from the company Oscar Adler & Co. is a blast in every sense of the word. Every part on this clarinet is a luxury and the end result is what we call a professional level instrument, but with an intermediate price. Let's take a look at everything it has to offer.
Materials
As with all great clarinets, the body is made of black grenadilla. Its properties are impressive, especially because it's a AAA type wood. This is because it's extracted from the bark of the tree and has been dried for more than ten years.
Thanks to its natural finish, you can see the weave of the wood and there are no nodules or cracks that impair the sound , thus showcasing its premium status.
The key system is made of Class A nickel silver with silver plating for improved sound performance, action and durability. Another excellent material is found in the Zinner brand mouthpiece. it's made of nylon reinforced with ABS and high quality polymers that give it exceptional elasticity.
Design
Like all the clarinets chosen in our list, this one has a soprano tessitura and is tuned for B flat. This means that it meets all the requirements of orchestras in Europe. In addition, the key mechanism is German Oehler which presents certain patented features to facilitate some challenging notes.
The mechanics consist of 22 keys with six rings, as well as the E flat and F keys. It also has an adjustable thumb rest that allows you to adjust a hanging strap which is very useful. In addition to this, it includes a Zinner mouthpiece and an excellent quality hard case.
Ergonomics
This is one of the highest quality elements of the Oscar Adler clarinet: the response of the keys is excellent. It seems that everything is possible and the limitations are only part of the interpreter's technical level.
The sensitivity of this system allows you to play with sonic nuances that are expressed thanks to the clarity of the notes. You can also do legato very easily because the key action is fast and you can create intermediate movements with each key.
The trill keys are excellent and you can make almost any trill imaginable. Likewise, the keys for E flat and F are the icing on the cake for this incredible instrument.
Sound
it's by far the best sound you will find in this price range. Thanks to the action of the keys you can create a sustain of different levels, either enveloping, slow or fast. The nuances highlight the well-balanced reverb of this clarinet. We also found the quality of the trills to be excellent and with a stable volume.
The response to different frequencies and the transitions between low, mid and high notes is balanced. Also, the versatility of this clarinet is total and you can use it for chamber music as well as for more explosive and modern styles. it's by far the best sounding on our list.
Conclusion
The Oscar Adler & Co. clarinet is by far the best instrument for conservatory musicians who want the best combination of construction, design and sound quality. We recommend it for clarinetists who wish to be soloists or top of the clarinet line. This instrument is, without a doubt, what every intermediate musician should aspire to have. Find the best price at Thomann.
Our recommendation
In this article, we have presented two excellent clarinets for intermediate level. One of them, the F.A. Uebel 621, is not afraid to flirt with the advanced level. On the other hand, the Oscar Adler & Co. 322 stands up to professional clarinets without fear of beating it on its own turf. Both are wonderful choices that deserve a special place in our collection of musical instruments.
We also recommend our article on the best bassoons on the market.
Technical characteristics Clarinets
MODELS | Weight | Materials | Tuning | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thomann GCL-422 MKII Bb | 750 gr. | Granadillo | Bb | 7/10 |
| Yamaha YCL-457II-20 | 1.2 kg | Granadillo and alpaca | B flat | 10/10 |
| Startone SCL- 65 Bb- | 476 gr | ABS, synthetic cork and nickel silver | soprano in B flat | 6/10 |
| Yamaha YCL-255 S | 800 gr | ABS, nickel silver and synthetic cork | B flat | 7/10 |
| Buffet Crampon Prodige Bb- | 1,3 kg | ABS, alpaca class A, stainless steel, leather | B flat | 10/10 |
| F.A. Uebel 621 Bb- | 1 kg | Grenadillo, alpaca, silver, cork | B flat | 10/10 |
| Oscar Adler & Co. 322 Bb- | 1,3 kg | Grenadillo, silver, nylon | B flat | 10/10 |
