| Case<\/td> | Backpack<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n When considering purchasing the Premium clarinet, it may be a good idea to ask your band director what they would like your instrument pitched to. Traditionally, ensembles pitch a concert A = 440 Hz, although more and more ensembles are switching to concert A = 442 Hz. If needed, your band director can help adjust the pitch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The type of plastic used on the Premium clarinet is good for a beginning clarinet, because it\u2019s a durable <\/strong>material that\u2019s lighter <\/strong>in weight and less expensive than wood<\/strong>. The response is also easier<\/strong> on a plastic clarinet.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAn adjustable thumbrest<\/strong> is a great feature, especially for beginning players who are still growing. Having the proper height to the thumbrest allows the student to maintain a good and comfortable hand position.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMany clarinetists use a neckstrap<\/strong>. This connects to a hook which Buffet provides on the thumbrest to take most of the weight of the instrument off of the right hand. Without it, playing can sometimes be painful and lead to improper hand position.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhile it may seem small, an important feature of the Premium clarinet is that it comes with a mouthpiece cap<\/strong>. The tip of a clarinet mouthpiece is quite fragile. Too many beginning students don\u2019t have a cap to protect their mouthpiece. If they chip the tip of the mouthpiece, it won\u2019t play right, so they are forced to buy a new mouthpiece.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe keys are silver-plated<\/strong>. This is a much higher quality and longer lasting plating than the typical nickel-plated beginner instruments. They will occasionally need to be polished by a musical instrument repair shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe backpack-style case<\/strong> is handy. It\u2019s relatively lightweight and protects the instrument well. Clarinet students usually love them.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis instrument doesn\u2019t come with reeds, which are essential. These will need to be purchased separately. For more on this, see the Related Questions below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n |