Karl Hammerschmidt Bass Clarinet
This is an extremely rare and fine Karl Hammerschmidt Bass clarinet to low Eb in Grenadilla wood. It was formerly the property of "Croydon Music Service" and is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct, having last been owned by a London based professional player. The Bass features a double overblowing vent, LH Ab/Eb lever and an articulated C sharp/G sharp mechanism. In other words a similar specification to all top professional models manufactured today. The Silver plate key work throughout is in excellent order, with only slight wear. There is one old, repaired crack, to the upper joint which runs between the 2 speaker key holes. It has been pinned, glued and filled and is an old stable repair. The matching serial nos. are 1062, and from the style of case we would imagine this instrument dates to the 1960s. All pads are finest Pisoni tan leather, in excellent condition, the instrument has had a partial overhaul in our workshop, with pads replaced as necessary and regulation to the key work. The case is the original, in fair condition, there is some wear to the interior and scuffs to the exterior. It still latches well. The m'piece is an"Ebolin". There is some flattening to the bottom of the bell, which was due to the lack of a floor spike. We have fitted a new spike attachment to the bell which should stop this recurring [ the spike comes with a bottom rubber attachment, not pictured] . This Bass plays very well, even throughout the entire range, with fine response in the upper register and excellent tone. It would make an ideal purchase for a professional on a budget, or enthusiastic amateur.