Jacques Albert Fils, E Flat Clarinet
A rare Boehm system clarinet in Eb made by the last maker of the legendary Albert family: Jacques Fils. This clarinet is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. It is likely that the instrument dates from 1930-1939, as the stamp is F A Fils Brussels London. J A Fils made the move to London in 1930. The serial numbers are 307. The German Silver keywork shows some wear and a patina appropriate to its age. The clarinet has been much played, and this is no surprise given the class leading intonation and response for the period. The Grenadilla wood is in fine condition with only one tight hairline crack to the barrel. This has been stable for decades, the last owner being a young UK based professional. The clarinet has used in fish skin pads, all are sealing well. Fortunately this clarinet comes with a Peter Eaton m'piece, and with this the intonation is comfortable throughout at A=440Hz. There is no joint wobble, and all parts are matching and original. The case is the original in good condition. This instrument would suit a player looking for a "warm" sounding Eb with fine intonation, but not overly worried about the cosmetic appearance.