Very NICE Condition Leblanc Paris Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet to Low C - Serial # 2184

This is a super cool (and in playing condition!) vintage Leblanc Paris “paperclip” contrabass clarinet with range to low C, serial number 2184. This clarinet was previously professionally owned and well maintained, and is in tremendous shape from top to bottom.

As you can see in the photos, this instrument is in stunning shape. The original finish is fantastic with no major finish wear of note. I see just one small dent on the curve of the bottom bow, and one past repair to the body brace, which was resoldered on one side, as seen in the photos. No other discernible repairs anywhere else that I can see. Some one/institution in the past etched some numbers in the tube, which we didn't want to buff hard to remove, so they are still there. The original neck and bell are in perfect shape. A couple years ago, the previous owner had the instrument completely gone through with about half the pads replaced, a thorough cleaning and adjustment, and it has not seen much playtime since. It remains in excellent playing condition.

This fine contrabass features keywork to low C (not just D, as you see on my other paperclips). It has its original metal floor peg as well as a custom made fiberglass peg. The fiberglass one is shorter, so the previous owner ingeniously took a plastic pot, turned it upside down, and the peg sits quite comfortably inside there. It does not slip around and is at a comfortable playing position. All of this will be included with the instrument when it ships.

Playing this instrument is an entirely new experience. Even if you have a lot of experience playing bass, nothing prepares you for the full, deep sound of a contra. It really rattles the roof! A lot of fun to play, and surprisingly quick response and comfortable under your fingers. Ships in its original case with all accessories mentioned, as well as its original Leblanc mouthpiece (with BG leather ligature and cap).