Noblet, Plateau B Flat Clarinet
A very good condition Noblet, by Leblanc, Paris France, Plateau B flat clarinet, which is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. This is a model 45 wooden Noblet, with a covered hole mechanism, i.e. plateau. Noblet was founded in 1750, which made them the oldest clarinet manufacturer in the world, and the company was bought by Leblanc in the early 20th Century. The key work, which is in silver plate, is excellent throughout with no wear. The Grenadilla wood throughout is in good condition. The barrel is made of resonite. The clarinet has fish skin pads throughout, which, whilst used, are all in very good condition. The last owner had a thumb rest fitted higher with a sling hook attachment, with the original thumb rest screws left in place.
The matching serial numbers are A35972. The case is also in very good condition, as is the Noblet m'piece. This clarinet continued to be manufactured by Leblanc right up until they ceased manufacture in 2009. It was described by them as "specifically designed for the younger player, doubler or even the arthritic player who may have difficulty covering the standard open-tone-hole".