Choosing the right clarinet can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to buy. The right clarinet can make a huge difference in your playing experience, so it’s important to choose wisely. In this article, we’ll explore the factors to consider when choosing a clarinet, including your level of experience, budget, and personal preferences. We’ll also provide tips on how to test out different clarinets before making a purchase. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, read on to discover how to choose the perfect clarinet for your needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Clarinet

Your Skill Level

When choosing a clarinet, it’s important to consider your skill level. The right clarinet for a beginner may not be suitable for an advanced player, and vice versa. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a clarinet based on your skill level:

Beginner

If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to choose a clarinet that is easy to play and has a good sound quality. Look for a clarinet with a warm and resonant tone that will help you develop good playing habits. Some good options for beginner clarinets include the Yamaha YCL-26, the Buffet Crampon E11, and the Clarineo student clarinet.

What type of clarinet is best for a beginner?

There are two main types of clarinets for beginners: the Bb clarinet and the A clarinet. The Bb clarinet is the most common choice for beginners, as it is easier to play and has a wider range of music available for it. However, some beginners may find the A clarinet to be more comfortable to hold and play.

What features should I look for in a beginner clarinet?

When choosing a beginner clarinet, look for the following features:

• A wooden body for good sound quality and durability
• A simple and compact design for easy handling and playing
• A adjustable thumb rest for proper hand positioning
• A smooth and reliable key mechanism for easy playing
• A protective case for safe storage and transportation

Intermediate

If you’re an intermediate player, you’ll want a clarinet that is more responsive and has a wider range of dynamics. Look for a clarinet with a bright and focused tone that will allow you to express yourself musically. Some good options for intermediate clarinets include the Buffet Crampon R13, the Selmer Paris Serie 9, and the Yamaha YCL-650.

What type of clarinet is best for an intermediate player?

Intermediate players may want to consider the A or the Bb clarinet, depending on their preferences and musical needs. Some players may prefer the A clarinet for its smaller size and easier keywork, while others may prefer the Bb clarinet for its wider range and more resonant sound.

What features should I look for in an intermediate clarinet?

When choosing an intermediate clarinet, look for the following features:

• A high-quality wooden body for excellent sound quality and durability
• A well-designed key mechanism for fast and responsive playing
• A longer and more complex bore design for better intonation and tone
• A professional-grade clarinet case for safe storage and transportation
• A mouthpiece with a more flexible and responsive tip for better articulation and tone control

Advanced

If you’re an advanced player, you’ll want a clarinet that is responsive, agile, and capable of producing a wide range of dynamics and colors. Look for a clarinet with a bright and focused tone that will allow you to express yourself musically with precision and finesse. Some good options for advanced clarinets include the Buffet Crampon Prestige, the Selmer Paris Selmer, and the Yamaha YCL-900.

What type of clarinet is best for an advanced player?

Advanced players may want to consider the Bb clarinet, as it is the most common and versatile choice for serious players. However, some advanced players may prefer the A clarinet for its smaller size and easier keywork.

What features should I look for in an advanced clarinet?

When choosing an advanced clarinet, look for the following features:

• A professional-grade ligature for better control and precision in playing
• A

Your Budget

How much should I expect to spend on a clarinet?

When it comes to budgeting for a clarinet, there are a few things to keep in mind. The cost of a clarinet can vary widely depending on the materials used, the brand, and the quality of the instrument. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars on a clarinet.

It’s important to keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean a better instrument. However, you do get what you pay for, and investing in a higher-quality clarinet can often lead to a better playing experience and a more satisfying sound.

What is the price range for different types of clarinets?

The price range for different types of clarinets can vary widely, depending on the type of clarinet and the brand. Here’s a general breakdown of the price ranges for some common types of clarinets:

• Student clarinets: These are typically the most affordable type of clarinet, and are designed for beginners or those on a tight budget. They can range in price from around $100 to $500.
• Intermediate clarinets: These are a step up from student clarinets, and are designed for players who have some experience under their belt. They can range in price from around $500 to $1,500.
• Professional clarinets: These are the highest-quality clarinets, and are designed for professional players or serious hobbyists. They can range in price from around $1,500 to $10,000 or more.

It’s important to keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and the actual price of a clarinet can vary based on a variety of factors. When budgeting for a clarinet, it’s important to consider not just the cost of the instrument itself, but also any additional expenses such as accessories, lessons, and maintenance costs.

Types of Clarinets

The Bb Clarinet

What is the Bb clarinet?

The Bb clarinet is a woodwind instrument that is commonly used in classical music, jazz, and other genres. It is named after the key of its main playing note, which is B-flat. The Bb clarinet has a cylindrical bore and a single reed that vibrates against the mouthpiece to produce sound.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Bb clarinet?

Advantages

• The Bb clarinet has a rich, warm sound that is well-suited for a variety of musical genres.
• It is relatively easy to play, with a comfortable range and a lightweight design that makes it easy to hold and maneuver.
• The Bb clarinet is a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of ensembles, from orchestral to jazz.

Disadvantages

• The Bb clarinet requires regular maintenance, including cleaning and oiling of the reed and keys.
• It can be challenging to achieve a consistent tone and intonation, especially for beginner players.
• The Bb clarinet can be expensive, especially for high-quality models with professional features.

The A Clarinet

What is the A clarinet?

The A clarinet is a type of clarinet that is commonly used in classical music. It is characterized by its distinctive sound and is known for its versatility and ability to produce a wide range of tones.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the A clarinet?

Advantages:

• The A clarinet has a warm and rich sound that is well-suited for classical music.
• It is versatile and can be used in a variety of musical genres.
• The A clarinet is relatively easy to play and is a good choice for beginners.

Disadvantages:

• The A clarinet is more expensive than other types of clarinets.
• It requires regular maintenance and adjustments to keep it in good condition.
• The A clarinet can be difficult to transport due to its size and weight.

The Bass Clarinet

What is the bass clarinet?

The bass clarinet is a woodwind instrument that is typically played in orchestral and chamber music settings. It is larger and has a lower range than the standard B-flat clarinet, with a range that extends down to low C.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the bass clarinet?

• Rich, warm sound
• Versatile instrument with a wide range of dynamics and colors

• Often used in orchestral and chamber music settings

• More difficult to play than the standard clarinet

• Requires a different technique and embouchure
• Limited availability of sheet music and repertoire for solo performance

The Contra Bass Clarinet

What is the contra bass clarinet?

The contra bass clarinet is a type of clarinet that is larger and lower in pitch than the standard B-flat clarinet. It is typically used in orchestral and chamber music settings, and is known for its deep, rich sound.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the contra bass clarinet?

• The contra bass clarinet has a rich, full sound that is well-suited to orchestral and chamber music settings.
• It is capable of producing a wide range of tones, from soft and delicate to loud and powerful.

• The larger size of the instrument allows for greater control and precision in playing.

• The contra bass clarinet is more difficult to transport and store than other types of clarinets due to its larger size.

• It requires a significant amount of air pressure to play, which can be tiring for the player over time.
• The contra bass clarinet is not as versatile as other types of clarinets, and is limited in the types of music it can play.

The Eb Clarinet

What is the Eb clarinet?

The Eb clarinet is a type of clarinet that is pitched in the key of E-flat. It is commonly used in orchestral and chamber music performances, as well as in jazz and popular music. The Eb clarinet is also known as the “bass clarinet” due to its lower range and deeper sound compared to the more common Bb clarinet.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Eb clarinet?

• The Eb clarinet has a unique and rich sound that can add depth and character to a musical performance.
• Its lower range and wider spacing between keys make it easier to play certain types of music, such as jazz and classical music.

• The Eb clarinet is well-suited for playing in an orchestra, as it blends well with other woodwind instruments and provides a full, rich sound.

• The Eb clarinet is more difficult to play than the Bb clarinet, and requires a different embouchure and technique.

• Its lower range means that it is not as versatile as the Bb clarinet, which can play in a wider range of keys.
• The Eb clarinet is less commonly used in popular music, which may limit its usefulness for some musicians.

The Clarinet-Bass

What is the clarinet-bass?

The clarinet-bass, also known as the “bass clarinet,” is a type of clarinet that is designed to produce lower pitches than the standard Bb clarinet. It is typically an instrument that is used in orchestral and chamber music settings, as well as in jazz and other contemporary music styles.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the clarinet-bass?

One advantage of the clarinet-bass is that it can produce a wide range of tones and dynamics, making it a versatile instrument for various musical genres. Additionally, the clarinet-bass is capable of producing a rich, full sound that can complement other instruments in an ensemble.

However, one disadvantage of the clarinet-bass is that it can be more difficult to play than the standard Bb clarinet due to its larger size and longer keywork. This can make it challenging for some players to navigate the instrument’s fingerings and technique, particularly for those with smaller hands or less experience with the instrument. Additionally, the clarinet-bass requires specialized care and maintenance, as its larger size and more complex mechanism can make it more prone to damage or wear and tear.

Tips for Buying a Clarinet

Shop Around

When it comes to buying a clarinet, it’s important to shop around to find the right one for your needs. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

What are the best places to buy a clarinet?

There are several places where you can buy a clarinet, including:

• Music stores
• Online retailers
• Private sellers

Each of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences when choosing where to buy your clarinet.

For example, music stores offer a wide selection of clarinets from different brands, and you can often try out the instruments before you buy. However, they may be more expensive than online retailers or private sellers.

Online retailers offer a convenient way to shop for a clarinet, as you can browse a wide selection of instruments from the comfort of your own home. However, you may not be able to try out the clarinet before you buy, and you may have to pay for shipping.

Private sellers can offer a great deal on a clarinet, as they are often willing to negotiate on price. However, you may not be able to try out the instrument before you buy, and you may have to meet the seller in person to complete the sale.

How can I get the best price on a clarinet?

To get the best price on a clarinet, it’s important to do your research and compare prices from different sources. You can also consider buying a used clarinet, which can be a more affordable option.

It’s also a good idea to ask about any discounts or promotions that may be available, such as a student discount or a discount for buying multiple instruments.

Overall, by shopping around and comparing prices, you can find the right clarinet for your needs and budget.

Try Before You Buy

How can I try out a clarinet before purchasing?

If possible, try to play on the clarinet before making a purchase. This will give you a better idea of how the clarinet feels and sounds. If you’re not sure where to find a clarinet to try, you can ask your music teacher or contact a local music store.

What should I look for when trying a clarinet?

When trying a clarinet, there are several things you should look for. First, pay attention to the sound quality. The clarinet should have a clear, rich tone that you enjoy playing. Next, consider the intonation. The clarinet should be in tune with itself and with other instruments. Additionally, pay attention to the resistance of the clarinet. A well-regulated clarinet should have the right amount of resistance, making it easier to play. Finally, consider the comfort of the clarinet. The clarinet should fit your hands and mouth comfortably, allowing you to play for extended periods of time without discomfort.

Consult with a Professional

When it comes to choosing the right clarinet for your needs, consulting with a professional clarinetist is an excellent idea. These experts have extensive knowledge and experience in the field, and they can provide you with valuable insights that can help you make an informed decision. Here are some ways to get advice from a professional clarinetist:

How can I get advice from a professional clarinetist?

One way to get advice from a professional clarinetist is to visit a local music store or shop that specializes in musical instruments. Many of these stores employ knowledgeable staff members who can offer advice and guidance on choosing the right clarinet. Additionally, you can also ask your music teacher or instructor for recommendations on which clarinets to consider.

Where can I find a professional clarinetist to consult with?

If you are unable to visit a music store or have trouble finding a knowledgeable staff member, you can also seek out a professional clarinetist to consult with. You can do this by reaching out to local music schools or conservatories, as they often have professors or instructors who are experienced clarinetists. You can also search online for clarinet teachers or instructors in your area who offer private lessons.

Consider Used Clarinets

What are the benefits of buying a used clarinet?

One of the primary benefits of purchasing a used clarinet is the cost savings. Used instruments are often significantly less expensive than new ones, allowing you to acquire a high-quality instrument without breaking the bank. Additionally, used clarinets can offer a unique playing experience, as some players believe that older instruments have a richer sound and feel.

How can I ensure that a used clarinet is in good condition?

When considering a used clarinet, it is crucial to ensure that it is in good condition. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as scratches or dents on the body, or rust on the keys. The instrument should also be well-maintained, with a smooth and even keywork mechanism. It is also important to check the clarinet’s overall sound quality, as a poorly maintained instrument may not produce the desired sound. Before making a purchase, it is recommended to have the clarinet inspected by a professional to ensure that it is in good playing condition.

Take Care of Your Clarinet

Maintaining and caring for your clarinet is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance. Here are some tips to help you take good care of your instrument:

What are the best ways to maintain and care for my clarinet?

1. Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to remove any dirt, dust, or moisture that may accumulate on the clarinet. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the instrument after each use. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the keys and the body of the clarinet.
2. Oiling: It’s important to oil the moving parts of the clarinet regularly to prevent rust and corrosion. Use a clarinet oil or a light machine oil to lubricate the keys, pads, and cork. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil with a soft cloth.
3. Adjusting: Make sure to adjust your clarinet regularly to ensure it’s in good working condition. Check the screws and the keywork to make sure they’re tight and secure. If you notice any sticky or loose keys, you may need to have them adjusted by a professional.

How can I extend the life of my clarinet?

1. Avoiding extremes in temperature and humidity: Extreme temperatures and humidity levels can damage the wood and the pads of the clarinet. Make sure to store your clarinet in a cool, dry place when not in use.
2. Protecting the instrument: When not in use, cover the clarinet with a soft cloth or a case to protect it from dust and scratches.
3. Having it professionally maintained: Regular maintenance by a professional can help extend the life of your clarinet. Have it serviced at least once a year, or more frequently if you play frequently.

FAQs

1. What factors should I consider when choosing a clarinet?

When choosing a clarinet, there are several factors to consider. The most important factors include the size and shape of the instrument, the material it is made from, the keywork, and the price. You should also consider your own personal preferences, such as the tone and sound you prefer, and the level of difficulty you are comfortable with.

2. What are the different types of clarinets?

There are several types of clarinets, including the Bb clarinet, the A clarinet, and the bass clarinet. The Bb clarinet is the most common type of clarinet and is used in most classical music compositions. The A clarinet is a larger instrument and is used in some orchestral and chamber music settings. The bass clarinet is the largest of the clarinets and is used in orchestral and chamber music settings, as well as in jazz and popular music.

3. How do I know what size clarinet is right for me?

The size of the clarinet you should choose depends on your physical size and the length of your arms. Generally, a clarinet that is around 65-67cm in length is a good size for most adults. If you have smaller hands, you may want to consider a clarinet with a smaller mouthpiece and keywork. If you have larger hands, you may want to consider a clarinet with a larger mouthpiece and keywork.

4. What material is the best clarinet made from?

Clarinets can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and resin. Wood is the most traditional material for clarinets and is preferred by many musicians for its warm, rich tone. Plastic and resin clarinets are more affordable and are a good option for beginners or for those who are not sure if they will continue playing the clarinet long-term.

5. How much should I expect to pay for a clarinet?

The price of a clarinet can vary widely depending on the brand, the material it is made from, and the level of craftsmanship. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for a clarinet. It is important to remember that a higher price does not always mean a better instrument, and that it is important to consider your own needs and budget when choosing a clarinet.

How to Choose the Right Clarinet for You: The Ultimate Buying Guide