CLARINETS DIRECT

020 8893 3172 or 07787 770071

COUESNON, MONOPOLE CONSERVATOIRE PLATEAU Bb CLARINET, £995

This is the top of the range professional "Monopole" Conservatoire model Bb clarinet made by Couesnon. At one time they were the largest French manufacturer of band instruments, and seem to have had a long tradition of supplying the French military. Trumpet and clarinet manufacture continued until the 1960's. Auguste Perier, the great French clarinettist, endorsed the "Monopole" clarinet, which was considered one of the best instruments in the period after the 1st World War.
This example dates from the early 1960's or possibly late 1950's and is in very good condition. It is an extremely rare plateau clarinet, i.e. all touchpieces are covered hole, & is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. The matching serial nos., on all pieces , are 29223. The Maillechort key work is in good order throughout. Most of the pads have just been replaced with white leather pads though some are older, in fish skin. All are sealing well, and all corks are also good. The Grenadilla wood is very fine. The bore is 14.7mm, remarkably close to a Buffet R13 of the period.
This clarinet would suit a doubler on sax or flute, or even the arthritic player who may have difficulty covering the standard open tone-hole ring keys. The case is the original in good condition, with only one tear to the interior lining. The m'piece is again original. The clarinet will play well and tune well with any standard Vandoren or Selmer mouthpiece.