Hello Everyone:

I have become a bit intrigued in my recent discovery of the Tarogato instrument.  It appears to be similar in some ways to a wooden saxaphone or perhaps more of a conical Albert system Clarinet.  From my limited initial investigation it seems a part of some traditional Turkish music.  I was hoping to start a topic where we may be able to discuss this instrument here.  I find it beautiful but am just beginning to learn about it.  I would greatly like to hear/read others ideas and opinions on this instrument. 

I have not posted too often before (only a few times) but I am primarily a bass clarinet player, but do play some across the clarinet spectrum. 

Looking forward to a potentially lively discussion where I can learn and grow. 

Hello Everyone:

I was wondering if anyone has had experience and/or advice on cutting the tail end of cane reeds in a way that is smooth and attractive looking? I have found it easier to procure baritone saxophone reeds for my contra alto clarinet and they fit well on the mouthpiece for playing.... but they extend farther back on the mouthpiece so there is a good 3/8 in or perhaps even a bit more that runs into the neck joint and puts a bit of torsional pressure on that joint when the ligature is tightened.

I was thinking of using a simple coping saw, but with the delicate nature of cane and the tongue end of the reed itself, I was seeking advice. I think I would typically like to cut off the tail end about 1/2 inch.... and would like it to not look like a ragged, crooked mess.

PipeTobacco

I have seen many serial number lists for clarinets and bass clarinets, but I am wondering if there is a list that helps gauge age and models of contra alto clarinets that any of you know of?

When I purchased my contra alto, I was surprised that it was not the Selmer-Bundy type I had been used to. It is pretty much the same but is specifically only named/stamped as Selmer..... no Bundy designation at all. And the original case has a square metal plaque on it that simply says Selmer, USA..... no Bundy on it either.

This has me curious to try to figure out the age of the beast..... not sure if it is newer or older than what I had been used to. And, frankly, I am not really sure if it is a different “model” of the time or not too.

The serial number is four digits only and is in the 85XX range.

If anyone knows how to help determine age.... year and model.... I would be very appreciative!

PipeTobacco