What is a good clarinet to get for college?

Answer 1

The best way to start someone on the Clarinet is to get them used to what they will playing for the rest of their musical career. My advice is that, if you are going to go out and buy a clarinet, buy something your musician can use well through the years. The transition between an "easy" clarinet and a "grown up" clarinet can be traumatizing and lead to a frustration that may keep a musician from wishing to play.

However, the easiest (and cheapest) way to start a beginner out would be to begin with using very low resistance reeds. Depending on the brand reed you purchase, my beginners start out with a "level 2" Vandoren, but quickly work up to a "level 2 1/2". The transition between "level 2 1/2" and "level 3" generally a few months.

Answer 2

Assuming you already have or don't need a plastic/ABS clarinet, you have a range of choices. An older Normandy will do just fine, just make sure both the wood and plating are in good condition. A repad doesn't have to be expensive if you get local recommendations and shop around. You can spend more and get something like a Buffet E11 but it doesn't really get you a better clarinet than the Normandy. A used Selmer C200 should be satisfactory as well. Shop around local music stores, check on-line auctions (but be careful!). Bottom line, you don't have to spend a lot of money! And don't brush aside a plastic clarint - there are some very nice one out there for low bucks.

Answer 3

The Buffet Crampon is the best clarinet for advanced students. Before purchasing a new instrument I would suggest having access to two or three and spending some time with each different instrument. Even instruments from the same company will have subtle differences and you will want time to evaluate before making a final decision.

Answer 4

The Buffet R13 is the standard, especially for music majors. For others, a professional level Selmer (Paris not US) or LeBlanc would do. Of course, for marching band, pep band and other less formal groups your high school instrument will be fine.

Answer 5

It depends on which company it is from. Some music stores are competitive so they may be cheaper.

Answer 6

advantage is the brand