Matched Pair of J B Albert Simple System Clarinets in Cocus, Bucknall Collection
These are an exceptionally fine pair of J B Albert Simple System clarinets in Cocus wood. This pair is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct and was owned by the well known British player Nicholas Bucknall; part of a fine collection of rare and excellent quality clarinets. These instruments were used on the soundtrack for the Mike Leigh film Topsy-Turvy about Gilbert & Sullivan. The clarinets are stamped J B Albert Bruxelles and the likely date of manufacture is around 1890-1900. When one plays these instruments it is easy to see why the name Albert became synonymous with the simple system clarinet in the English speaking world, as the response and intonation are so fine.
The cocus wood shows no cracks or damage, it has only minor surface marks, commensurate with use. All pieces are matching and original. The key design is excellent, very advanced for the time with "roller" sliver keys, [which have indents into the wood to allow for easy sliding] as well as additional rollers for most of the "pinky" keys. The German Silver key work shows a patina appropriate to the age of the clarinets. The barrels have metal lined tenons, and some of the joints have tenon caps, though the Bb seems to have lost its upper tenon cap. The instruments have used white leather pads, but all are sealing. The m'pieces is the original, which has been relayed to 0.9mm tip by Jon Steward, and the pitch is A =440 Hz. The case is heavily used and the LH latch has a failed spring but still latches.