I’m currently test driving a Buffet R13 clarinet that belongs to my friend Mark, a colleague from community concert band who bought it about a year ago.  He’s never been happy with it, and now insists it’s “possessed”. 

First, the barrel developed a crack (that was replaced by the retailer he bought it from.)  He also experienced intonation problems so pronounced he was constantly adjusting the barrel based on what register he was playing in.  He claims (but I don’t believe him) the problem got worse during a full moon and on Friday the 13th…  Eventually, he got so frustrated he bought a different clarinet altogether - a Selmer.  I asked if I could try out the possessed horn for a week or so and either perform an exorcism so he can sell it, or help him bury it or something.  I own a Buffet E11 (which I bought 4 years ago), and was eager to get an R13 in my hands again.

Like lots of other clarinet geeks, I’ve read up on the differences between an E11 and an R13 but was still pleasantly surprised at how smooth and rich Mark’s R13 sounded, in all registers but notably in the lower register.  (For the technical details on Buffet clarinets, go here.)

Possessed?   Heck no.  Just not right for him, because he loves his new Selmer.

Now, if you’re in the market for a new (or new to you) clarinet, I recommend you shop around.  Never purchase a horn without being able to try it out (unless it’s really cheap, and maybe not even then).

It may be difficult to find a store in your area with a decent selection of horns to choose from, so call around, and ask the local band directors and private teachers.  Mark found a local store with five, count ‘em, FIVE, Selmers in stock to choose from.  If you’re not so lucky, some online retailers will send you an instrument (or two) to try out; the caveat is, you usually pay for it up front and get credited after you return it. 

Once you’ve got a new clarinet or two in front of you, do a thorough visual inspection (even if it’s new).  Make sure everything is intact and in place.  If you’re not sure what to look for, have a teacher or a fellow player do it.

Run each clarinet through its paces by trying out some of your favorite pieces.  I found when I was playing Mark’s horn certain things were so much easier on that R13, like multiphonics and alternate fingerings.  Use pieces you already play well so you can focus on the sound and feel, not the technical stuff.   Make sure you play something in all registers.

Check the intonation on a tuner if you have one.  If you’re in a store, borrow one.  My E11 always plays a tad sharp in the throat tones.  The R13 is fine in the throat tones but a bit sharp in the altissimo register.  Neither of these is a show-stopper; neither would stop me from purchasing but it is good to know.

Prices can vary widely.  Usually a music store will be on the more expensive side, but they will generally stand behind their product (such as in the case of Mark’s cracked barrel).  If you shop through an established online retailer that is usually the case also.  Buying from private parties is the most risky but you can also get a real bargain.

And now, I’m going back to playing with Mark’s possessed clarinet for the short time I have left.  If I don’t play it every day I swear I can feel it…staring at me.

Have fun!

The clarinet clairvoyant