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How to Sell Your Woodwind or Brass Instrument
If you’re looking to sell a quality used Woodwind & Brass instrument we may be able to help. We offer three main ways to sell your instrument via Dawkes:
- Commission Sale
- Part-Exchange
- Buy-In
In this blog we’re primarily giving information about our Commission Sale process which is our main option. However, we do also offer part-exchange and straight buy-ins occasionally if it’s a very popular model (and depending on our stock). Part-exchange values are given in-store so we would recommend booking a visit to see us and try out new gear to trade your instrument against.
Understanding Harmony Clarinets: Expand your Clarinet Journey
A recent arrival of two vintage Uebel instruments – a Bass Clarinet to low C and a Basset Horn in F – sparked excitement in our workshop and inspired us to explore the world of harmony clarinets. For many clarinetists, the Bb clarinet is home base. But beyond the familiar lies a fascinating family of instruments known as harmony clarinets. Whether you’re looking to deepen your ensemble experience, explore new timbres, or take on a fresh challenge, understanding harmony clarinets offers a world of musical possibilities and can expand your clarinet journey.
What Are Harmony Clarinets?
The clarinet family is one of the largest in the orchestral world. If you are just starting out on clarinet, you may only be familiar with the Bb clarinet, however, there are many others that sound either higher or lower in pitch. Here are a few of the most commonly used:
- Eb Piccolo Clarinet – Higher in pitch, most commonly used in orchestras and wind bands for brightness and colour. You may have heard this in Ravel’s Bolero!
- A Clarinet – Close relative of the Bb clarinet, used often in orchestral repertoire.
- Bb Clarinet – The go-to for beginners and seasoned players alike. It is fairly standard for orchestral players to own both a Bb and A clarinet as these are the most commonly composed for orchestra.
- Alto Clarinet (in Eb) – A step lower than the Bb clarinet, used in concert bands and clarinet choirs.
- Basset Horn (in F) – This instrument is incredibly rare now and was most commonly favoured by composers such as Mozart and, surprisingly, Stockhausen! A mellow, slightly darker-toned clarinet between the alto and bass in range; used in classical and chamber music.
- Bass Clarinet to low C or Eb (in Bb) – One octave lower than the Bb clarinet. The bass clarinet is very versatile and is popular in bands, orchestras, and solo repertoire, both in jazz and classical.
- Contra-alto (in Eb) and Contrabass (in Bb) – Very low-pitched instruments, adding depth in large ensembles like clarinet choirs or symphonic bands.
These instruments form the “harmony” section much like tenor and bass voices in a choir, supporting and enriching the ensemble’s sound.
Why Use Harmony Clarinets?
Adding harmony clarinets to your repertoire offers several benefits, including:
1. Ensemble Balance and Colour
Harmony clarinets add additional voices above and below the standard Bb clarinet, expanding the range and richness of the ensemble in clarinet choirs, concert bands, and orchestras.
2. Expanding Musical Opportunities
Being able to switch to a harmony instrument can make you a more versatile musician, therefore highly valuable in any ensemble setting. These doubling skills across the clarinet range can open doors to new roles and leadership opportunities, for example, in school and community ensembles.
3. Improved Musicianship
Playing a harmony clarinet requires adjusting to transposition, embouchure adjustments, and new fingerings (particularly on larger horns). This strengthens your overall musical awareness and adaptability.
4. Exploring Unique Repertoire
Each instrument has its own catalogue of solo and chamber music. The basset horn, for example, is featured in several works by Mozart and has seen a resurgence in modern compositions. The bass clarinet is especially prominent in contemporary and jazz repertoire.
Tips for Switching to a Harmony Clarinet
1. Start with a Familiar Key
If you’re transitioning from a Bb clarinet, the bass clarinet in Bb is a logical first step. The key is the same, and while the physical feel is different, the written music is familiar to your ear.
2. Adapt Your Embouchure
Larger clarinets use larger mouthpieces and reeds, requiring a more relaxed and open embouchure. Take time to experiment and avoid overblowing – sound production relies more on diaphragm support and resonance than pressure.
3. Equipment Matters
Don’t underestimate the importance of a mouthpiece and ligature for harmony instruments. Consider upgrading once you’re more comfortable to find a set-up that suits you. Reed choice also makes a big difference. For example, a soft reed is often the culprit for squeaks, whereas a hard reed can make sound production a struggle.
4. Practice Low Register Control
Most harmony clarinets shine in the chalumeau (low) register. Practice long tones and interval jumps to improve tone stability and clarity down low.
5. Learn from the Pros
Listen to recordings of players such as Hannah Shilvock (bass clarinet) and others who specialise in harmony clarinets. You’ll gain a better sense of tone ideals, expressive capabilities and repertoire ideas.
Final Thoughts
Switching to a harmony clarinet isn’t just a technical challenge – it’s a musical adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the sonorous tones of the bass clarinet, or the commanding presence of the contrabass, exploring harmony clarinets will expand your voice as a clarinetist and deepen your understanding of ensemble playing.
Check out the video below to see how unusual the clarinet family can be with these vintage Uebel clarinet pair!
A Beginner’s Guide to Double Reed Adjustments
Whether you’re just starting on oboe or bassoon, one thing becomes clear quickly: your reed matters. A great reed makes playing enjoyable – a bad one makes it frustrating. We’ve created a beginner’s guide to double reed adjustments to help you get the most out of your reeds. With a few tools and some basic understanding, you can make small adjustments by carefully scraping the cane that have a big impact on your sound and help make your reeds last even longer.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
To begin adjusting your reeds, it helps to have a basic toolkit:
- Reed knife – for precise scraping
- Plaque – inserted between reed blades to support scraping
- Mandrel – holds the reed steady (especially helpful for bassoon reeds)
- Fine sandpaper – for subtle smoothing
- Pliers (optional) – for adjusting wires if your reed has them
Tip: Work in good lighting and go slowly. Less is more when scraping!
Double Reed Anatomy – Knowing Where to Adjust
Understanding your reed’s anatomy helps you know what to adjust. The main areas to work on are:
- Tip – the thin, flexible part; key for response and articulation
- Heart – the denser middle section; provides stability and core tone
- Back (or throat) – helps control resistance and tuning
Small changes to each area can have big results – so test frequently and adjust in tiny increments.
Tip: Always scrape the reed when it is wet to prevent cracking – use small pot of water to soak reeds prior to working on them or playing.
Common Reed Problems and How to Fix Them
1. Too Hard
If your reed feels too hard to blow, it’s often because the tip is too thick, the blades are too closed, or there’s too much overall resistance. Gently scrape the tip to thin it slightly, and if necessary, open the reed by gently squeezing the sides at the heart to increase the tip opening.
2. Tone is Muffled
When the tone is dull or muffled, it usually indicates the reed is too closed or the scrape is uneven. In this case, try opening the tip slightly and check that both blades are symmetrical. When holding to a light, if one side appears more opaque, lightly scrape this side until it matches the opposite side. You can also lightly thin the tip to improve vibration.
3. Pitch is Flat
When the pitch is too flat, the reed might be too open or the tip might be too long. Try gently closing the tip a little or clip a small amount off the end to shorten the overall length and therefore raise the pitch.
4. Pitch is Sharp
If your reed plays too sharp, it may be because the tip is too thin or the reed is too closed. To lower the pitch, carefully open the tip and consider scraping a bit more from the back or heart to rebalance the reed.
5. Delayed Response
A slow or delayed response often points to a thick tip or an overly heavy heart. You can improve response by thinning the tip in a shallow “U” shape and blending the edges into the heart for better airflow.
6. Unstable Sound
If your tone is unstable or feels wild, this may be caused by uneven blade thickness, an overly open tip, or an excessively thin reed. Check that both blades are balanced and symmetrical, and adjust the opening as needed. You might also reinforce the heart slightly to regain stability.
7. Buzzing or Fuzzy Sound
Finally, buzzing or fuzziness in the sound can result from soft cane or misaligned wires (in the case of bassoon reeds). To clean up the sound, refine the scrape carefully, check for cracks or leaks, and ensure any wires are adjusted evenly and not too loose or tight.
How to Test Your Reed
After making any changes, test your reed carefully:
- Crow Test – Blow on the reed alone. A healthy double reed should produce a rich, buzzy crow with multiple overtones
- Play Test – Play a few scales or a passage you know well. Listen for improved tone, intonation, and response.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting your own reeds might sound scary at first, but it’s a skill that puts control back in your hands. Whether you’re smoothing the tone, fixing pitch, or easing response – small, thoughtful changes can turn a tricky reed into a great one.
So, remember to keep this beginner’s guide to double reed adjustments close by and in no time perfecting your reeds will become second nature!
A Beginner’s Guide to Reed Adjustments
Whether saxophone or clarinet, your reed is the heart of your sound, without it you couldn’t even make a sound! A great reed can make playing effortless, while a poor one can turn practice into a struggle. Learning how to adjust reeds gives you control over tone, response, and comfort. In this beginner’s guide to reed adjustments, we’ll show you how to get the most out of every reed.
(more…)Top 3 Student Flutes: Choosing the Perfect First Flute for You!
Choosing the perfect first flute for you can be a daunting task for beginners embarking on their musical journey. With so many options available, it’s easy to assume all flutes are the same—or feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety. To save you time and confusion, we’ve brought you 3 top-rated student flutes that stand out for their quality, ease of play, and value for money: the Windcraft WFL-110, the Jupiter JFL-700EC, and the Yamaha YFL-212. In this week’s blog, we’ll break down what makes each of these models a smart, reliable choice for new players.
Windcraft WFL-110
First up is the Windcraft WFL-110, a model that caters perfectly to novice flautists. Designed with ease of use in mind, this flute offers a free-blowing design that helps students produce sound more easily and begin developing their tone from day one. Its silver-plated finish adds durability and a professional appearance and it comes equipped with a split E mechanism, making those notoriously difficult high E notes easier to produce. Featuring a lightweight fabric cover and durable hard-case makes transportation hassle-free and protected. What makes the Windcraft WFL-110 especially appealing is its affordability. Priced at around the £200 mark, it offers excellent value and ensures students get a quality instrument without a hefty price tag. Furthermore, each flute is set up by our expert technicians in the workshop, ensuring optimal playability straight out of the box. Listen below to the great Thom Conroy demonstrate how this flute sounds.
Jupiter JFL-700EC
Next, we have the Jupiter JFL-700EC, which provides enhanced playability thanks to features often found in more advanced models. Unusually for a flute in this price range, this model includes a .925 solid silver riser, which adds an extra weight to the instrument, contributing to a richer, more resonant tone. As with all models mentioned, it comes with a split E mechanism as well as an offset G key. This offers improved ergonomics, especially for younger or smaller hands, while the silver-plated body and keys ensure the instrument remains both visually appealing and durable over time. With a price point of around £500, the JFL-700EC represents a great step-up option for students who are serious about advancing their skills.
Yamaha YFL-212
Finally, we come to the Yamaha YFL-212, a model celebrated for its reliability and consistent performance. Yamaha has a long-standing reputation for crafting instruments that deliver, and following on from the renowned YFL-211, the YFL-212 is no exception. Details such as the ergonomic key layout which helps developing players build proper technique from the beginning and the cut of the embouchure hole specifically contributing to the overall ease of play. Like the others, it includes a split E mechanism to assist with high E notes and boasts a nickel silver construction that ensures the flute can handle regular practice and performance. Edging towards the £600 mark, the YFL-212 is slightly more expensive but widely regarded as a top-tier choice for beginner flautists.
In Summary
In conclusion, each of these student flutes offers unique strengths. The Windcraft WFL-110 is ideal for those just starting out and working with a modest budget. The Jupiter JFL-700EC suits students looking for a slightly more advanced instrument with professional features. The Yamaha YFL-212, while a bit more of an investment, provides unparalleled reliability and tone quality for its class. Choosing the perfect flute for you depends on your individual needs and goals, but you can be confident that any of these student flute models will support your musical journey from the very first note.
Why not come and try for yourself in one of our many testing rooms? Book a space today!
Making the Switch – Advice for Transitioning to Bass Clarinet
Making the switch from Bb to bass clarinet opens up a rich and resonant sound world – but it also comes with new challenges. From adjusting your embouchure to navigating the larger keywork, transitioning to bass clarinet requires patience and practice. In this post, we’ll offer advice on overcoming common hurdles, helpful techniques, and essential maintenance tips to help you make a smooth and successful switch.
Finding Your Set-Up
Choosing the right bass clarinet is important to get you started on your journey. Start by considering your budget and playing experience. Student models are excellent for beginners, offering durability and affordability, specific examples include the Yamaha YCL-221IIS or Jupiter JBC-1000S. As your skills develop, you might consider upgrading to an intermediate or professional model for improved tone and keywork, such as models by Buffet and Backun.
General points to consider when finding your ideal set-up include:
Instrument Material: Wood (grenadilla) offers a richer sound, while plastic/resin is more durable and resistant to temperature changes.
Keywork: Look for comfortable key placement and smooth action. With the larger keys it’s easy to feel the strain but there are many models with ergonomic mechanics to suit you.
Range: Bass clarinets typically come in two ranges: to low Eb or low C. Low C models are more versatile, but can be more expensive as they are regarded as more for the professional need.
- Reeds and Mouthpiece: As well as the instrument itself, finding the right reed and mouthpiece setup can make a huge difference in sound and playability. What works for a Bb clarinet for example may not translate as well to bass clarinet. Top Tip: Start with medium-soft reeds if you’re new to bass clarinet. Take time to find a mouthpiece that responds well to you and your chosen reeds.
If you need help on where to start, check out our video below with Preston Cummins on everything you need to know about choosing the right bass clarinet (down to low Eb) for you!
Common Challenges
Many clarinetists, whether beginner or seasoned players, experience common challenges when transitioning to bass clarinet:
Intonation: Mastering intonation, particularly in the low register, requires practice and careful listening. Spend time with a tuner and work your way through the instrument to improve and understand the intonation of your bass clarinet.
Breath Control: Developing sufficient breath support takes time and effort. Focus on long tones and diaphragm exercises to increase your lung capacity and use your breath effectively.
Physical Strain: One of the first hurdles is the sheer size of the bass clarinet. It’s significantly larger and heavier than a Bb clarinet for example, which means everything from finger positioning to posture needs adjusting. Using a neck strap or floor peg can help reduce the strain and improve posture, especially during long practice sessions.
- Embouchure and Air Support: The mouthpiece and reed of a bass clarinet are larger, requiring subtle changes to embouchure, such as more mouthpiece in the mouth, and more consistent air support. Many beginners either overblow or don’t support the sound enough, leading to squeaks, airy tone, or poor intonation. Use your diaphragm to support your airstream and maintain a stable sound.
Essential Exercises for Transitioning
As with any instrument, effective practice is key to success. Try incorporating these exercises into your general practice routine:
Long Tones: Practice long tones across the entire range of the instrument to develop a consistent tone and improve intonation. Pay close attention to the sound quality and adjust your embouchure and breath support as needed.
Scales and Arpeggios: Mastering scales and arpeggios will improve your finger dexterity and familiarity with the instrument. Start slowly and gradually increase your tempo as you become more comfortable. Focus on smooth transitions and consistent tone between registers. Use a tuner to check intonation, especially on throat tones and low notes.
Low Register Practice: Dedicate time to practicing in the low register, as this is where the bass clarinet truly shines. Focus on producing a clear, resonant tone without forcing. Be aware that reeds may feel harder in the lower register than they do on Bb clarinet, and a slightly softer reed may be required for you to produce the desired sound.
Maintenance Tips
As with all instruments, to ensure the bass clarinet is working effectively for you, you must adopt proper daily care into your practice.
- Swabbing: Use a soft, absorbent swab or pull through to clean the instrument’s interior after each playing session to remove moisture.
- Key Oil: Oil the keys regularly to keep them moving smoothly. Use a high-quality key oil and apply it sparingly to the key mechanisms.
- Cork Grease: Apply cork grease to the tenon corks to prevent them from drying out and cracking. This will also make it easier to assemble and disassemble the instrument.
- Professional Servicing: Take your bass clarinet to a qualified repair technician for regular servicing. A professional can identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems.
Summary
Embarking on the journey of learning the bass clarinet is an exciting endeavour. By understanding the nuances of the instrument, employing effective practice techniques, and maintaining your instrument, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking its rich and expressive voice.
Master your High Notes for Trombone (ft. Christopher Bill)
Playing high notes on any brass instrument can be challenging for many musicians, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. However, with practice and the right techniques, you can improve your ability to hit those soaring notes with confidence and clarity. We spoke to brass supremo, Christopher Bill, on his high note tips for trombone and brass instruments, and we’ve put together a few extra steps to help you on your way to mastering the high register.
A Guide to Ishimori and Wood Stone Super Custom Saxophones
About Ishimori and Wood Stone
In the late 1990s, Shinji Ishimori, a master craftsman, launched the ‘Wood Stone’ brand – named by combining ‘Ishi’ (stone) and ‘Mori’ (wood) – to create original products that met the evolving needs of saxophonists.
The brand began with a handcrafted ligature and has since expanded its lineup to include saxophones, mouthpieces, reeds and other accessories. They craft each product by hand, believing this to be the only way to achieve the quality they strive for. For example, all the screws are hand-made, allowing the products to feel more personal and not as structured as machine-made products.
Ishimori’s commitment to handcrafting ensures that each product, from ligatures to saxophones, meets the highest standards of quality and performance.
How To: Care For Your Double Reeds
Whether single or double reeds, proper care and maintenance are crucial. We’ve put together a quick guide on how best care for your double reeds. Following these tips can help ensure the reeds longevity and optimal performance.
Understanding Your Double Reed
A double reed consists of two pieces of cane that are bound together and vibrate to produce sound. Due to their delicate nature, oboe or bassoon reeds must be handled and maintained with care. Whether you’ve made your reed yourself or, alternatively, bought one specially prepared, this guide will help you get the most out of your reeds!
How to Glissando on the Clarinet
Glissando, a smooth glide from one pitch to another, is a technique often used in jazz and contemporary music. Mastering the glissando on the clarinet can add an expressive dimension to your playing.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a successful glissando on the clarinet, including a short video by Clarinettist extraordinaire Julian Bliss!
The benefits of playing a woodwind or brass instrument…
Playing a woodwind or brass instrument offers numerous advantages that extend beyond simply producing beautiful music. You can even get started from just £20 per month with our low-cost hire scheme!
Extensive research shows there are many benefits, we’ve listed some of the key ones below…
