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- Matched Pair of H Wurlitzer Schmidt Reform Boehm Clarinets
Matched Pair of H Wurlitzer Schmidt Reform Boehm Clarinets
Clarinets Direct is Europe's leading specialist clarinet dealer. We are fortunate indeed to be able to offer these rare and fine Herbert Wurlitzer Schmidt Reform Boehm system clarinets. The last owner bought this pair from T W Howarth & Co in 2015, where reputedly they were one of the last pairs prepared by the late master craftsman, Jon Steward. Certainly anything German & of this quality was dear to Jon. For many players these clarinets are the ultimate Boehm system: In tune, made with consummate craftsmanship and offering a uniquely characterful tone, which contrasts sharply with some modern mass produced instruments. Herbert Wurlitzer has a reputation second to none, he succeeded his father, Fritz, who was the foremost German manufacturer of SRB clarinets. Fritz had gradually reduced the interior bore of his designs, and Herbert continued the manufacture of this type of bore. These days the firm of Schwenke and Seggelke are generally accepted as the most highly regarded clarinet makers in the World. Unlike many modern manufacturers who claim to make a Schmidt Reform Boehm, these clarinets are the genuine and superb article.
These H Wurlitzer Schmidt Reform Boehm 185 clarinets feature: A booster mechanism for throat Bb. An additional vent for the D/A twelfth, working off the LH 3rd ring. A compensating low G/D pad. A hole in the bell to improve low E/B. All of this results in a clarinet of superb evenness and unmatched security of intonation. Indeed the problem confronting the player used to the inherent shortcomings of the standard Boehm, is learning not to adjust embouchure pressure to correct the non existent faults on this instrument!
The Bb has serial no. 37784, which dates to 1972, and has Silver plate in very good condition throughout, with no discernible wear. The wood is excellent condition, without cracks or repairs. The thumb rest has been moved higher, and one thumb rest screw left unused. The instrument has super-pads in excellent condition throughout The instrument is stamped " Herbert Wurlitzer, Nuestadt. B, Made in Germany". All pieces are matching and original, and the 5 supplied barrels measure between 53.0mm & 62.5mm.
The A has serial no. 37783 and has Silver plate in very good condition throughout. The wood is again in excellent condition. The pads are used white leather, as fitted by Jon Steward, but all in very good condition. The instrument is stamped " Herbert Wurlitzer, Nuestadt. A, Made in Germany". There are 4 original barrels of between 54.5mm and 58.5mm. The m'piece is an "as new" Herbert Wurlitzer 3M which tunes the instruments in an exemplary fashion. The supplied case is used but in fine condition. A selection of unopened German reeds is included also in the sale.