When it comes to choosing a clarinet for a high school student, there are many factors to consider.
The instrument should be durable, easy to play, and produce a quality sound.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming for parents and students to make a decision.
One important factor to consider is the level of the student.
A beginner student will have different needs than an intermediate or advanced player.
A beginner may benefit from a clarinet with a smaller bore and easier fingerings, while an intermediate student may require a larger bore and more advanced features.
It is important to find a clarinet that will challenge the student without overwhelming them.
Another factor to consider is the budget.
While there are many high-end clarinets on the market, they may not be necessary for a high school student who is just starting out.
It is possible to find a quality clarinet at a reasonable price.
However, it is important to remember that a cheaper instrument may not have the same durability or sound quality as a more expensive one.
Ultimately, the best clarinet for a high school student is one that meets their needs and fits within their budget.
Clarinet Models and Brands
When it comes to finding the best clarinet for a high school student, there are many models and brands to choose from. Here are some of the top options to consider:
Best Clarinet Brands
There are several top clarinet brands that have a reputation for producing high-quality instruments.
Some of the best brands include Yamaha, Selmer, Buffet Crampon, and Jupiter.
Jean Paul USA CL-300
The Jean Paul USA CL-300 is a popular choice for high school students.
This clarinet features an ebonite body, nickel-plated keys, and a Boehm 17-key system. It also comes with a hardshell carrying case, reed holder, and cleaning cloth.
Yamaha YCL-255
Another great option is the Yamaha YCL-255.
This clarinet is designed specifically for beginners and features a matte ABS resin body, nickel-plated keys, and a 65mm barrel. It also comes with a carrying case, mouthpiece, ligature, and cap.
Hisonic Signature Series 2610
The Hisonic Signature Series 2610 is a high-quality clarinet that is perfect for intermediate and advanced players.
It features a grenadilla wood body, silver-plated keys, and a Boehm 17-key system. It also comes with a carrying case, mouthpiece, and reed.
Cecilio CT-380
The Cecilio CT-380 is another great option for high school students.
This clarinet features a rosewood body, silver-plated keys, and a Boehm 17-key system. It also comes with a carrying case, mouthpiece, and reed.
Jupiter JCL-700N
The Jupiter JCL-700N is a professional-grade clarinet that is perfect for advanced high school students.
It features a grenadilla wood body, silver-plated keys, and a Boehm 17-key system. It also comes with a carrying case, mouthpiece, and reed.
Selmer CL211
The Selmer CL211 is a high-quality clarinet that is perfect for intermediate and advanced players.
It features a grenadilla wood body, silver-plated keys, and a Boehm 17-key system. It also comes with a carrying case, mouthpiece, and reed.
Yamaha YCL-650
The Yamaha YCL-650 is a professional-grade clarinet that is perfect for advanced high school students.
It features a grenadilla wood body, silver-plated keys, and a Boehm 17-key system. It also comes with a carrying case, mouthpiece, and reed.
Accessories
In addition to the clarinet itself, there are several accessories that high school students will need.
These include reeds, a mouthpiece, ligature, cleaning cloth, and carrying case.
It is important to choose accessories that are compatible with the specific clarinet model being used.
Buying Guide
When selecting the best clarinet for a high school student, there are several factors to consider.
A good clarinet should be affordable, provide good value, and be suitable for the student’s skill level.
Here are some factors to consider when making a purchase.
Factors to Consider
Skill Level
When selecting a clarinet, it is important to consider the student’s skill level.
For beginners, a student-level clarinet may be the best option.
For intermediate players, an intermediate-level clarinet may be more appropriate.
A beginner clarinet will usually be less expensive, but an intermediate clarinet may offer better sound quality and more advanced features.
Price
Price is another important factor to consider when purchasing a clarinet.
It is important to find a clarinet that is affordable but still provides good value.
A very playable student-level clarinet can often be purchased for less than the cost of a year’s rental.
A well-chosen student instrument that is well cared for will retain its value and usually return a substantial part of its purchase price when sold used or traded in for an intermediate clarinet.
Brand
The brand of the clarinet is also a factor to consider.
Some brands are known for producing high-quality clarinets, while others may be less reputable.
It is important to do research and read reviews to find a brand that is known for producing good quality instruments.
Best Clarinets for Beginners
For beginners, a student-level clarinet may be the best option.
Some of the best clarinets for beginners include the Buffet B12 and the Yamaha YCL-255 Standard Bb.
These clarinets are affordable and provide good value for the price.
Best Intermediate Clarinet
For intermediate players, an intermediate-level clarinet may be more appropriate.
Some of the best intermediate clarinets include the Yamaha intermediate clarinet and the Buffet E11.
These clarinets offer better sound quality and more advanced features than student-level clarinets.
When purchasing a clarinet, it is important to consider the student’s skill level, price, and brand.
By doing research and reading reviews, it is possible to find a clarinet that is affordable, provides good value, and is suitable for the student’s skill level.
Final Thoughts
After conducting extensive research on the best clarinets for high school students, it is clear that the JCL700N and Selmer CL211 are two of the top options available.
These clarinets have received positive reviews from both professional musicians and students alike, and are known for their reliability, response, and smooth feel.
One of the strengths of the JCL700N is its 1-year warranty, which provides added peace of mind for students and parents.
Additionally, the JCL700N can be easily purchased online through various sites, making it a convenient option for those who may not have access to a physical music store.
The Selmer CL211, on the other hand, is known for its high-quality construction and silver-plated keys, which give it a professional look and feel.
This clarinet is a great option for students who are serious about their music and want an instrument that will last them for years to come.
Overall, when it comes to choosing the best clarinet for a high school student, it is important to consider factors such as reliability, response, and feel.
By choosing a reputable brand and investing in a quality instrument, students can ensure that they have the tools they need to succeed in their school bands or orchestras for decades to come.