Stepping Up Your Clarinet
Why step up from a beginner to an intermediate or performer clarinet?
Step-up models offer bigger sound, better intonation, and better tone quality.
We've broken down the different features and benefits for you below.
Features Found on Most Beginner Clarinets
| Feature |
Benefit
|
| ABS resin, Duralene, or Viplex (plastic) body |
Durable, inexpensive, unaffected by temperature |
| Power-forged keys |
Strong, adjustable without breaking |
Small, cylindrical bore
|
Easier for beginners to play
|
Undercut tone holes
|
Better intonation and response
|
Molded case
|
Durable and inexpensive
|
Features Found on Most Intermediate Clarinets
| Features |
Benefits
|
Grenadilla wood body
|
Produces warm tone
|
Power-forged keys
|
Strong, adjustable without breaking
|
Larger, cone-shaped bore
|
Larger, fuller sound
|
Undercut tone holes
|
Excellent intonation and response
|
Metal bell ring & tenon ring
|
Protects wood from cracking
|
Individual attention & adjustment
|
Improved response and intonation
|
Carry-all case
|
Holds music and more supplies
|
Features Found on Most Performer Clarinets
| Feature |
Benefit |
Highest-grade, aged grenadilla wood
|
Optimum tone and stability; less cracking
|
Power-forged keys
|
Strong; adjustable without breaking
|
Larger, cone-shaped bore
|
Larger, fuller sound
|
Undercut tone holes
|
Excellent intonation and response
|
Adjustable thumb rest
|
More comfortable playing position
|
Steel needle springs
|
Maximum sensitivity and fastest response
|
Nylon-tipped adjustment screws
|
Won't back out
|
Maximum attention in adjustment
|
Best response and intonation
|
Carry-all case
|
More room for music and accessories
|
More questions about clarinets or stepping up? Reach Amro's band instrument specialists by e-mail here or call them at (901) 323-8888.