Buffet, BC20, B Flat Clarinet
When the American investor Martin Tolchin bought Buffet Crampon company he felt that though the R13 sold well in the USA different models would be more successful in Europe. The S1, Continentale and BC20, which evolved into the RC, were all attempts to make darker, more focused sounding clarinets.
This is a BC20 Bb clarinet, which is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct, with matching serial nos. F21458 dating to 1981. At this period Buffet Crampon were making only a limited number of extremely fine professional clarinets, and quality control at Buffet had not suffered the decline it was to undergo later. Buffet Crampon described this model as being designed for Recital and Orchestral playing. The Nickel Silver plated key work is pristine throughout, with no wear. The wood is in excellent condition throughout with no cracks, damage or repairs. The key regulation is tight and there is no joint wobble. Like a current top of the range Buffet this instrument was made with hand selected unstained Grenadilla wood. The instrument has finest tan leather pads, in new condition. The m'piece is a student model in good condition as is the case.