Leblanc, Paris, Basset Horn
This is a fine condition Leblanc Basset Horn, model 315, in Grenadilla wood, to low C, which is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. The current owner is a British amateur who has had to sell off a large part of his large collection due to illness. The Buffet and Leblanc Basset Horn designs are essentially modified Alto clarinets, the larger bore favours orchestral use.
This instrument is in very good condition, with no cracks or damage to the wood. The Basset Horn has super pads throughout in excellent condition. The instrument has been down to our workshop for regulation, and it will play perfectly out of the box. There is some minor plating wear to the nickel plate, which is showing some of the base copper plate, mainly on the long key barrels on the lower joint, please see photos. The bell and crook are both in fine condition, with only some light scratching to the plating of the bell due to assembly. An excellent custom Ed Pillinger m'piece of unique design is included, and with this the Basset Horn plays firmly down to A=440 Hz across the entire range, with the response being remarkably homogenous and even. The second register is particularly easy and free. In addition, a used good condition Vandoren B40 m'piece is included which plays the instrument at A=442 Hz. The Basset Horn comes with a custom spike, which has been lengthened for the players' convenience. The original case is in fine used condition. This Basset Horn is ideal for Strauss Operas or, as it has often been used, in the Mozart Requiem or Grand Partita for 13 Winds. A comparable Buffet retails today new for £9200.