Leblanc, Paris, Bass Clarinet
This is a very fine Leblanc Bass Clarinet in Grenadilla wood, model 400, to low Eb, which has just been taken in part exchange. This instrument sits above the Noblet Bass in the Leblanc line up, and was described by them as an entry level professional model. All the German Silver key work is in excellent condition, though there is a surface patina, natural to an instrument which has matching serial numbers 5088, which probably dates to the mid 1960s. The wood is in good condition for a Bass of this age, with no cracks or repairs, though the marching band lyre fitting has been removed and the screw holes filled, see photo 6. The bell and crook are both in good used condition with no major dents, there are only slight surface dings to the bell, and light scratches. The Bass has a mixture of fish skin pads with some newer tan leather pads on the lower joint, which are all in excellent condition, the instrument has been very well maintained. There is a floor peg and also a sling hook. The case is an up-grade to a modern Yamaha, which makes the Bass much easier to transport and protects the instrument well. The m'piece is an older Vandoren. In summation this is a very fine responding professional model Bass with an excellent tone and tuning. A comparable new Bass today would cost in excess of £5000.