Me and my McIntyre

[Douglas E Cooper]

Hi All: Im brand new to the forum but would like to share my history...I started clarinet in the fourth grade c. 1958 my only clarinet was and still is a McIntyre given to me by my uncle "Tommy" McIntyre who also was my only clarinet teacher. The deal was I could get a sax if I learned the clarinet first. I dutifully applied myself until I qualified for my Selmer MK VI in 1964. Then, I left the clarinet pretty much behind. My community band is depressingly "over-saxed" so I am back on the clarinet. I had my original McIntyre overhauled by Billy Cole of Cole's Woodwinds in Saratoga Springs NY and she sounds and plays amazing! Uncles Tom & Bob had great hopes for their design but like a lot of things in life, it never came to pass but I must admit my instrument is an excellent clarinet after all these years and pros often complement me on my tone (Im good for about 15 minutes before my jaw goes into oblivion).
Anyway I wanted to let everyone know what a great and patient guy my uncle was (and he could also play the pants off a clarinet)  Thanks

[ghostler]

Welcome to the forum, Douglas. It sounds like you have a winner of a clarinet nicely restored by Billy Cole. Yes, even my clarinet chops are out of whack. Clarinet takes a bit more skill and conditioning (practice, practice, practice) in embouchure than sax does. (I have all - SATB. Besides Bb soprano also have an Eb sopranino clarinet.)

Here, we aren't quite as rich on sax so I play tenor in the community band. I'm probably best known for busking a capella copyright expired traditional Christmas caroles next to a Salvation Army Christmas donation kettle during the season since 2014. Have had my photo taken in the local paper a number of times. A little less active now that I am 72.

Anyway, again welcome to the forum and hope to hear more from you.

-- George