The clarinet holds a special place in jazz history, contributing significantly from its early days to today's music scene. This woodwind instrument mirrors the evolution of jazz, often acting as the voice of the genre across various styles and techniques. Let's explore how the clarinet has developed in jazz music, looking at key figures and the innovations that keep it relevant in the genre. ...
Category Archives: Clarinet History
Exploring the Legends: Famous Clarinet Players in History
Throughout history, the clarinet has been a vital instrument in various music genres, from classical and jazz to contemporary and folk. Many talented clarinetists have left an indelible mark on music, influencing not only their contemporaries but also future generations of musicians. This guide explores some of the most famous clarinet players in history, their unique styles, contributions, and the legacy they've left behind. ...
The Fascinating History of the Clarinet
The clarinet, a beloved woodwind instrument known for its expressive range and warm tones, has a fascinating history that spans several centuries. From its humble beginnings to its place in contemporary music, the clarinet has undergone significant transformations. In this post, we'll take you on a journey through the history of the clarinet, including its evolution, key figures who have influenced its development, and how it continues to thrive in modern music. ...
Exploring Career Possibilities and Probabilities of Success in Studying the Clarinet
When it comes to pursuing a career in music, the possibilities are as diverse as the instruments themselves. One such instrument that has captivated audiences for centuries is the clarinet. A young person considering studying the clarinet may wonder about the career possibilities and the probabilities of success that lie ahead. Let's delve into this fascinating world to shed some light on the subject. ...
Jean Montour A Paris Clarinet
From Karmin:
I am a graduate clarinet student and have recently come across a vintage clarinet and I would like to find out more about it. I have been researching every possible place, but this one in particular doesn't have much readily available information. I'm hoping you'll be able to help me! Here's what I know:
The clarinet is in wonderful shape and plays well. The parts, including bell and barrel, are all original and there are no cracks. The A key has been soldered, but everything else is original (except for pads, obviously!). It is a B High pitch clarinet with the “Jean Montour A Paris” brand with the little fly and a symbol underneath, with a “B”. I have not been able to find any serial numbers, but may have overlooked something. I believe that it is grenadilla wood, and the wood looks fabulous! The clarinet could stand to be cleaned a good bit, but that is all superficial and should clean up well. ...
Grand Prix Low B Clarinet c1906-1914
Good Afternoon,
I wonder if you are able, please, to give me advice regarding my son’s Clarinet which was willed to him some 15 years ago. We are not especially interested in it’s value, although if it is valuable it would be useful to know as more care should be taken of it!
I have had it identified by a company who specialize in instrument repairs here in Brisbane. The instrument in question is a Grand Prix B low pitch serial number 1010. It was difficult to identify as the stamping is very faint but it is definitely Martin Freres with the little fly.
At some time it has had a pinned repair on the section next to the mouthpiece. The repair is still in good order.
What we would really like to know is when it was manufactured, so if you could offer a guidance as whom I may contact who could help me establish this I would indeed be very grateful.
Best wishes and thank you in hopeful anticipation,
John R.
———-
John,
Thank you for your email.
The Grand Prix was a limited edition clarinet produced c1906-1914 by Martin Freres to coincide with the first Grand Prix races in France.
Unfortunately, we no longer have serial number to date-stamp data for such models so we cannot be certain of the exact date of manufacture. However, we can find no Grand Prix model advertisements after 1914.
The original advertisement can be found here:
https://martinfreres.net/j-b-martin-martin-freres-1913-instrument-advertisement/ ...
Martin Freres Company
The Honored Journey of the Martin Freres Company Namesake
The Martin Freres Societe (fr., Martin Brothers Company), was established in the year 1840 in the city of La Couture Boussey, Eure France by (Francois) Jean-Baptiste (Born 1817, Dec 1877), Claude Eugene (Born 1819, Dec 1874) & Felix (Born 1821, Dec 1896) MARTIN (surname). ...
Martin Freres Catalog of Clarinets 1905
Select pages from the Martin Freres 1905 Catalog of Clarinets. ...
Vintage Martin Freres 1740 Deluxe Model Over 75 Years Old
During a time in instrument manufacturing history, when clarinets were being widely produced for the Big Band Jazz sound, Martin Freres Woodwinds continued focusing their manufacturing efforts on superior quality Grenadilla Wood Bb clarinets for the Symphonic enthusiast. Just after World War II, Martin Freres released a well-fine-tuned instrument for experienced clarinetists engraved, ‘Martin Freres Paris Model 1740 Deluxe.' Today, over 75 years since its debut, the instrument is still performing for artists and collectors around the globe.
The 1740 Deluxe did not follow the mainstream clarinet construction techniques of the era, known as the large-bore clarinet (15.0mm and larger) made popular by such manufacturers as Conn, Selmer, Boosey & Hawkes, and Penzel Mueller. Rather, Martin Freres manufactured the 1740 Deluxe using a small 14.5mm bore, which was embraced by clarinetists throughout the world for playing classical pieces.
The 1740 Deluxe features outstanding intonation and key action throughout the registers, as well as the throat tones, making it an ideal example of a mid 20th century professional clarinet.
The Martin Freres 1740 Deluxe was manufactured in Paris, France from 1945 until the 1960s. Originally crafted to play to 19th-century tuning (A = 442 Hz), clarinet barrels are readily available to transform the 1740 Deluxe tuning to the modern A = 440 Hz; fitted to mouthpieces with tenons measuring 22.0mm – 22.6mm.
Acoustically, the 1740 Deluxe boasts an underlying whisper (silvery overtones) to complement its bright, rich tone and reaching projection. Players can easily blend with the full cast of instruments or stand out in solo performances for virtually any venue.
The 1740 Deluxe has become a rare find. Catch one if you can!
Dimensions:
Barrel:
Top Receiver ID: 22.25mm; Tenon Receiver Depth: 17.30mm; Center Bore: 14.50mm
Bottom Receiver ID: 22.85mm; Tenon Receiver Depth: 20.30mm; Center Bore: 14.50mm
Bore Style: Straight
Length: 64mm
Upper Joint:
Top Tenon OD: 22.7mm; Tenon Height: 19.9mm; Center Bore: 14.50mm
Bottom Tenon OD: 21.9mm; Tenon Height: 16.3mm; Center Bore: 14.69mm
Lower Joint:
Top Receiver ID: 21.2mm; Tenon Receiver Depth: 15.7mm; Center Bore: 14.77mm
Bottom Tenon OD: 27.2mm; Tenon Height: 19.8mm; Center Bore: 21.9mm
Bell:
Top Receiver ID: 26.8mm; Tenon Receiver Depth 19.8mm; Length: 105.3mm