Tracing its roots back to the late 1700s, the Basset Horn's first champion was Mozart. Some of the most well-known and simply beautiful works Mozart wrote for winds featured the Basset Horn, likely played by his friend and Masonic brother, Anton Stadler.
Tuned in F, some might ask, "isn't this just an Alto Clarinet, but just a step higher?" The answer is complicated, but the TL;DR is: No, it's different. But if you're reading this, you probably already know that.
This Uebel Basset Horn is a beautiful instrument, and it plays similarly to the legendary Leblanc 451 Basset Horn. It's free-blowing, and sweet (and has some of the same intonation idiosyncrasies, but with significant improvements if my memory of the 451 still serves me.)
It comes with an Alto Clarinet mouthpiece — a Vandoren B40 — and a Rovner Ligature. (I guess that's something that the Alto Clarinet and the Basset Horn share!) The leather case is made by Mark O'Brien over at Reed + Squeak, and is designed very well for the instrument.
There aren't many Basset Horns out there in the world, and even fewer that are available. But Uebel agreed to make this one, and it's a real winner. Have a listen below to the recording I made of the first movement of the Mozart Divertimento #4 for 3 Basset Horns and you'll see what I mean.
Included with the instrument:
- Two necks
- Vandoren B40 Alto Clarinet Mouthpiece
- Rovner Alto Clarinet Ligature
- Peg
- Reed & Squeak black leather case
All earspasm instruments come with a 7-day trial. Please read my trial policy before pulling out that credit card.
FAQ:
Q: What if I'm in New York and want to try it in person?
A: Come on over. I'm fully vaccinated.
Q: Does the instrument come with a warranty?
A: Yes, it comes with the standard Uebel 5-year warranty against cracks, and 2 years for mechanical issues. If you ever have any problem with the instrument, I'm your quarterback. I'll take care of the whole process, just let me know you need help, and I'll take it from there.
Q: What happens if it's damaged during shipping?
A: Inspect the package before you sign off at delivery! If there are any issues resulting from shipping, we have taken out an insurance policy to cover damage (and loss). But we need you to document this damage or we can't do anything to help.
Q: If I decide to return it, do also I have to pay return shipping costs?
A: Yes. And you will also want to insure it!
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes, but please contact me first for the shipping cost. I will adjust the cost based on your actual address. International shipping costs vary, and range between $300-500 USD. Please note that you will be responsible for any Customs Duties.
Q: Can I have a listen?
A: Yes! Click the link below to listen to a little Mozart on this instrument!
