CLARINETS DIRECT

020 85811113 or 07787 770071

Home Clarinets Mouthpieces Delivery and Terms About Us Contact Us

GEORGE LEBLANC, PARIS, LL BASS CLARINET, £1895

This is an extremely rare top of the range G Leblanc, Paris, LL Bass Clarinet in Grenadilla wood, to low Eb, later designated model 325S. This model features a fork Ab/Eb in the RH which neatly does away with the necessity for another touchpiece for the LH little finger. Although Leblanc's instruments were almost entirely handmade, Leon Leblanc insisted that the craftsmen follow careful measurements. "Music is an art, but it is still governed by the laws of science," he declared (Music Trades, July 1996). As a result, Leblanc instruments were more consistent than those that had come before. The LL, named for Leon Leblanc [the son of the founder of the firm] was such a succesful design that it continued to be made right up until the moment the company was bought by Buffet. The LL models demonstrate excellent evenness and intonation throughout the entire range. It is a one UK owner professional instrument, and has been extremely well cared for. The case still has the name plate of the supplying dealer Bill Lewington, who was, for many years, the main UK agent for Leblanc.
The Grenadilla wood throughout is in superb condition, with no cracks or damage, only slight scuffs assocaited with normal use. The German Silver key work is in very good condition throughout, [NB the instrument has been photographed prior to going through our workshop]. The crook is in excellent condition, as is the bell, which has a floor peg attachment. The instrument has just had a complete overhaul in finest Pisoni Tan Leather pads in the Clarinets Direct workshop, and is sold with our full 1 year warranty. The matching serial nos. are 6743, which probably dates to the late 1960's. The supplied mouthpiece is a Conn in good condition. The instrument comes with the original metal cylindrical guard to preserve the integrity of the upper joint top tenon. There is no joint wobble here, or at any other part of the instrument. The original case shows wear to the interior and exterior, but still latches well.