Selmer, Centered Tone, B Flat Clarinet
This is a Selmer Paris, Centered Tone, enhanced Boehm Bb clarinet, which is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. The Centered Tone was the penultimate large bore Jazz Selmer clarinet, only the Series 9 was larger. Thereafter Selmer switched to making smaller bore clarinets more in the manner of Buffet. The current owner is a leading UK based professional.
This Bb clarinet features a fork Eb/Bb in the left hand, i.e. 7 rings. The matching serial nos. are R1540 which dates to 1957. The instrument has German Silver key work in good condition, with no wear. The wood throughout is in good condition, apart from 2 repaired, glued cracks to the upper joint, see photos 6 & 7. As is the case with all Selmer Centered Tones the upper joint bore is a reverse taper, it measures, 15.1mm at the top of the upper joint narrowing to 14.7mm at the bottom. The pads are all tan leather, and this clarinet has been through our workshop for a partial service prior to sale. The original case is in good used condition, and it appears to be a modified double case, the interior space is generous.