Clarinet Recommendations

Instrument Rental or Purchase

We are fortunate to have several excellent music vendors in our area, all of whom provide quality instruments and repair services. It is important that students and their parents select instrument from the recommended list. Beginning student level instruments vary widely in terms of quality. We want all of our students to have every opportunity for their best success playing their instrument. An instrument of poor quality can be frustrating and difficult to play. Students have trouble playing well, and don’t realize that it’s not their fault, it’s because of the instrument!

Recommended Clarinet Brands

A critical component to your child's success as a musician is the quality of his/her instrument. Unfortunately, all brands are not created equal! Below is a list of instrument brands we have found to be of consistently high quality. We encourage you not to compromise your child's opportunity for success.

Yamaha, Buffet, Selmer, Bundy, Vito, Leblanc, Artley, Jupiter

No such list can be all-inclusive. The directors are happy to look at other instruments upon request.

Clarinet Features

When picking a student instrument, look for the following features:

Quality of material used in body of instrument, such as ABS resin
Barrel design that enhances response for the beginning student
Bell with resonance chamber that produces a focused tone and quick response
Sturdy pads that hold up to the demands that a beginning student place on the instrument. This aids in maintenance during the first year. In addition, the instrument will be more stable in varying conditions of temperature and humidity
Ergonomic key design
Adjustable key design on thumb rest
Sturdy material used for keys that stand up to daily use
Undercut tone holes
Tight fit on tenons and clamps that ensure air tightness and easy response
Sturdy case

Required music items include:

Folding music stand
Book (see Recommended Instruments for the appropriate grade level book)
Lyre and flip folders: used for marching band and/or All Island Band Night

Clarinet Accessories