MATCHED PAIR OF J ALBERT FILS BARRETT SIMPLE SYSTEM CLARINETS
An extremely rare matched pair of J Albert Fils Barrett action Simple System clarinets.
The Barrett action was much favoured in Britain largely due to the strong endorsement of George Clinton, who was Clarinet Professor at Kneller Hall, the Royal Military School of Music in Twickenham during the early years of the 20th Century. It continued to be much used right up until the 1950s in GB. Pat Ryan, famously Principal Clarinet of the Halle Orchestra, was probably the last well known classical player, but some Jazz players still continue to use them. This pair belongs to Jane Booth, the well known classical clarinet player, and are a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. J Albert Fils was the last maker of the famous Albert family of makers and the Albert name became synonymous with the simple system in the English speaking world. The Barrett action allows for a dual function first side key, which produces both D#/A# and F/C when used in combination with LH 1& 2 and LH 1 respectively. It is one of the most advanced Simple system designs. The makers stamp J Albert Fils is present on all pieces, with the bell of the Bb also carrying the endorsement of Haydn Draper, the famous English player
This pair have been much used and are in fair condition. the longer barrel has a full length crack. Both clarinets have cracked at the start of the lower joint, which is metal lined, therefore this has no effect on their playability. There is also damage to the tenons with minor chips and many surface scuffs to the wood. The Bb has serial numbers 272. Both clarinets have blue tack and other material added to the tone holes to improve the intonation, which is standard at A=440 Hz. Both clarinets have well used tan leather pads, but are sealing and playing. There are also thread repairs to the tenons. The A has matching serial numbers 230. The German silver keywork shows tarnish, but is in good condition for its age. An original Albert B2 m'piece is provided, which plays well. For instruments which were most probably made in the 1920s they are in fair condition. The original case shows much wear but still latches securely.