Jacques Albert Fils Clarinet in B Natural
An exceptionally rare and unique Boehm system clarinet in B natural made by the last maker of the legendary Albert family: Jacques Fils. This clarinet is likely the only one of it's type extant in the world today. Even the Shackleton collection does not have an example. We have sold several Buffet B natural clarinets which dated from the early years of the 20th Century, but, until now have never seen a clarinet in B by another maker. It is likely that the instrument dates from 1925-1930, and at this period J A Fils was considered one of the finest makers in the world, certainly his designs were several decades ahead of his rivals. This clarinet appears to be one of the earliest instruments to feature a dual function register key, which opens a dedicated Bb hole, and automatically defers to the register key, when the LH Thumb is depressed. The mechanism is ingenious and remarkably well thought out; typical Jacques Albert Fils. There are 3 adjusting screws, including one atop the register key to keep the mechanism in regulation. The whole design is much improved over the later Rosario Mazzeo design, equal in quality to Selmer's Omega design, as seen on the Bb Centered Tone.
The German Silver keywork is good, very solid, and with a light patina appropriate to its age. The Grenadilla wood is in fine condition with no cracks or damage. The clarinet has just had a full overhaul in tan leather pads. Fortunately this clarinet comes with an original Jack Heyworth m'piece. Heyworth was the UK distributor for Albert, and the intonation is exemplary throughout at A=440Hz. In part this is due to the fact that the split register key allows for the optimal positioning of the upper register vent. There is no joint wobble, and all parts are matching and original. the clarinet is stamped " Manufactured Jacques Albert Fils Bruxelles" The case is a brand new modern example.