Step Up Clarinets

When clarinetists can reliably produce the basic notes, they begin working on tone quality, intonation, and articulation.  At this stage a step-up clarinet is a major advantage; it produces a larger and warmer sound, notes that are more naturally in tune, quicker response, and more positive control.  The improved tone and control is encouraging to young musicians and often inspires them to practice and play more.

Step-up Levels

Beginner clarinets are almost always made of high-grade plastic. Plastic is appropriate for beginners because it’s durable and quality of the tone is not as important at this stage as learning to play the correct note.  In addition, beginner clarinets are small bore, requiring less effort to play but producing a thinner tone.

Intermediate, performer, and top-line clarinets provide a darker, fuller sound because they are made of wood; their larger bore creates a bigger sound.  The difference in tone between a plastic clarinet and a wood clarinet is considerable and always noticeable. 

The performer and top-line models are usually made with grenadilla wood that is aged longer - sometimes as much as 11 years.  This makes the clarinet more stable, producing truer tones and less likely to develop cracks.   In addition, the better clarinets usually get more custom adjustment by the master instrument builders, especially in tone-hole undercutting and other fine adjustments that affect the intonation and response of the clarinet.  On some models very high quality springs are used to make the key action as quick and effortless as possible.

A student who has played six months or more will benefit from a wood clarinet to keep up with their abilities and allow them to progress adequately.  For students who are serious about music or plan to play in college, a performer or top-line clarinet is likely to be the appropriate choice.

  The differences between beginner, intermediate, and performer clarinets are summarized the the cart below.

Features Found on Most Beginner Clarinets

Features Found on Most Intermediate Clarinets

Features Found on Most Performer Clarinets

More questions about clarinets or stepping up?  Reach Amro's band instrument specialists by e-mail here or call them at (901) 323-8888.