CLARINETS DIRECT

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BOOSEY & HAWKES IMPERIAL 926 Bb CLARINET, £595

An extremely rare B&H 926 Bb, in ebonite, which has been exceptionally well cared for. The Imperial 926 was manufactured to the same standard as the Imperial Symphony 1010, both top of the range professional quality instruments. This clarinet was the former property of a well known British player, who as an RSC musician preferred this instrument for on-stage work. The instrument is lighter than a Grenadilla wood example, and has an exceptionally free and lively tone. The intonation is also superb, one of the best 926's I have ever come across. This could have something to do with the early serial number, and the fact that ebonite can be machined more precisely than Grenadilla wood.
The instrument has double bladder fish skin pads all in excellent condition. The bore and body are excellent with no cracks, damage or wear, only slight surface marks. The Nickel plate is showing some wear to both rings and touch pieces, but the key work is in very good shape. There is no wobble or slackness in the regulation. The matching serial nos. are 49686, which probably dates to the late 1940's. The No.2 B & H m'piece is in good condition. The case is old, and possibly original, it still functions well.