CLARINETS DIRECT

020 85811113 or 07787 770071

BUFFET Eb PICCOLO CLARINET, £1995

This is a Buffet Eb clarinet in very good condition. Clarinets Direct is fortunate in counting leading professionals amongst our clientele. This instrument has a unique and excellent Provenance, having been owned and customised by the late John McCaw. John was a leading exponent of the "English" school of clarinet playing, notable for his exceptional tone, and expression. He started his long career as Principal Clarinet of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. He joined the London Philharmonic Orchestra, initially as 2nd and Eb Clarinet, and became their Principal Clarinet, before leaving to join the New Philharmonia [later the Philharmonia] as Principal Clarinet, a post he retired from in 1989. As those fortunate enough to study with him well remember, John was always concerned that a clarinet be tuned as accurately as possible. Though this instrument started life as a standard professional Buffet Eb clarinet, in fact it has been much altered: Most of the major alteration includes opening out the bore at the top of the instrument and also reaming out the m'piece. This means that the Eb will play sharp if standard French bore Eb m'pieces are used, it needs the supplied m'piece, or one with a similar bore. In addition to John McCaw's original m'piece, a brand new Pillinger copy with the facing HH 107 [ a Hale Hambleton standard facing] is also supplied. If the new owner wishes this m'piece could be re-faced to their own specifications.
The matching serial nos. are 31925, the wood has no cracks or repairs, it is in good condition throughout, though the thumb rest has been moved higher, and the screw holes left unfilled, see photo 10. The German Silver keywork is in very good condition, with no discernable wear. The instrument has just had an overhaul in our workshop in double bladder fish skin pads, and is sold with our full warranty. The instrument tunes exceptionally well, and also demontrates a much warmer and round tone than the standard production model. It would suit a professional player. The supplied case is a brand new compact Eb case, NB not pictured.