Buffet, Alto Clarinet
A rare "Professional" model Buffet Alto clarinet. This Alto features a double over-blowing vent in a similar manner to the double octave vent of an Alto saxophone, the mechanism for the upper vent is actuated for notes from "G" upwards in the clarion register. Therefore this design is significantly better in tune, and the response more even, than Alto clarinets made by other manufacturers. This instrument was recently taken in part exchange by ourselves and has been professionally owned and played. The wood shows a few slight surface marks, but is free of cracks and repairs. The pads are mainly fish skin with the 4 lowest being tan leather. Whilst used, the pads are all in good condition and sealing well. The Nickel Silver plate is in very good condition with no wear. Likewise the crook and bell are in good condition with only one tiny ding to the bell. The matching serial numbers are 21092 which dates to 1975. It is worth remembering that, on average, Buffet made fewer than 100 harmony "Professional" models a year in the 1970's, and, understandably, only their most experienced craftsman were entrusted with these special orders. The quality of this workmanship is unsurpassed and considerably better than current manufacturing standards. Buffet has just announced the opening of a new facility in China, and the current trend of falling standards of manufacture seems set to continue.
The Alto comes with a brand new Yamaha 5C m'piece and Rovner ligature. The original case is worn but functional. The current list price for a comparable Buffet Alto is £7495.