We affectionately call the Selmer Recital clarinet "The Log".
Why? Because it is a huge chunk of wood. Selmer produced this clarinet with the idea that more wood = darker sound, so they increased the diameter of the wooden body by 2mm. Sounds like a minor change, but damn, you can really feel the difference in your fingers…and biceps. The timbral result is indeed darker, but that said, it's a unique sound in that it still sounds very "French" (lots of "ping" and focus in the core of the sound), just with more...heft. It's hard to describe, and it has a gorgeous tone that can really fill up a hall, but isn't ever "syrupy."
You'd think that the Recital, with its extra wood, might be less responsive, or more resistant, but it really isn't. It plays like it's a welterweight, but sounds like a heavyweight. It's the Muhammad Ali of clarinets.
You've got to try it to understand how incredibly interesting and unique the Selmer Recital really is.
Resistance: 6/10, Medium
In general, more resistance in a clarinet design usually keeps the louder dynamic ranges from spreading; the clarinet "holds its core" and focus, but will provide a smaller dynamic range (on both ends, loud and soft) and smaller color palette. A less resistant clarinet typically provides a much wider tonal palette to choose from, but will require more control from the player to control pitch and sound consistency.
When listening for how a clarinet responds to added air pressure and embouchure control, listen to the Weber example (wide dynamic range and color range), then the Berlioz excerpt (wide dynamic range, but narrow color range), and finally the Gershwin excerpt (narrow dynamic range and narrow color range). You will hear how these clarinets respond — for better or worse! — to my input as a clarinet player.
The Recital offers a slightly less free-blowing experience while remaining responsive and nimble. The bore of the Recital was the starting point for the Selmer Muse, which was designed to be a "lightweight Recital," so if you're on the fence, you might want to try both of them before making a decision. This resistance is a nice mix for solo and ensemble pieces that require a lot of control, but which also require projection to the "cheap seats". Think Brahms, both sonatas and symphonies, and you'll be in the right frame of mind.
Of course, it's important to note that resistance can be subjective and may vary based on individual playing techniques, embouchure, mouthpiece, and reed choice. It's always recommended to try out comparable instruments, if possible, to determine which one feels more comfortable and suits your playing style and musical needs. I'd suggest comparing the Recital to the aforementioned Selmer Muse, the Backun Lumiere or Buffet Tosca.
Specs
Here are the specs for the Recital Bb and A clarinets. (Note, the A clarinet comes with a double case):
- 62.5 & 64.5mm barrels (these are smaller than most, because of how the clarinet is designed. Don't let it freak you out!)
- 14.5mm bore (Bb, cylindrical section)
-
White leather pads
- Silver-plated keywork with adjustable thumb rest
- PRiSMe case (Bb single; A double)
All earspasm instruments come with a 7-day trial. Please read my trial policy before pulling out that credit card.
What is B-Stock instrument?
Sometimes I get instruments that have been at trade shows, or that may have a scratch on the case, or something else insignificant. I get these at a discount from Selmer, and I pass the savings along to you. Of course, as every instrument I sell, each has been inspected, set up and play-tested by me to ensure that it hits my goal of the clarinet "living its best life" before you receive it.
If you are curious about what (if anything) I've found on a particular B-stock instrument that you're thinking about buying, just contact me and I'll give you the details about what made that instrument B-Stock, so you know exactly what you're getting.
B-stock instruments are a fantastic value, and they come and go quickly. So, you may not see B-stock all the time, though I do try to keep one in stock all the time.
FAQ:
Q: What if I'm in New York and want to try it in person?
A: Contact me to set up an appointment, and let's do it!
Q: Does the instrument come with a warranty?
A: Yes, it comes with the standard Selmer warranty against cracks, etc. 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. Please read my trial policy for how to handle this issue, should it arise.
Q: If I decide to return it, do have to pay return shipping costs?
A: Not if you live in the Continental US! Because I want you to find the right instrument for you, and doing so online is harder than doing so in-person, I will cover the return shipping. Please read my trial policy for trial and return rules.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes. You can add your shipping address when checking out to see what the shipping costs will be before taking the plunge. Note that VAT and Customs Duties are not included in this cost.
