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EMPEROR Bb CLARINET - INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED MODEL - ALL LEATHER PADS - READY TO PLAY!

Used Boosey & Hawkes EMPEROR Bb CLARINET - INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED MODEL - ALL LEATHER PADS - READY TO PLAY!

Good Condition
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$50.00 Price Drop

Was: $475.00

$425.00
+$30.00 Shipping
ryb1974
Kenner, LA Sweetwater Customer Since 2024
(8)
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This item is sold as is. Seller has a "No Returns" policy. However, you may still be eligible for a return or refund if the item arrives damaged, defective, or not as described and you report the issue within 7 days of delivery.

Item Description
Serial: 501653 Listed 1 month ago
This Boosey & Hawkes Emperor Bb clarinet is a well-built vintage intermediate/advanced instrument, freshly serviced and fully repadded for reliable performance. Known for its distinctive British design and larger bore profile, the Emperor offers a broad, warm tonal character and an open playing feel. It is also known as the Boosey & Hawkes 4-20 model.

This example has been thoroughly serviced and is ready to play. With solid wood construction, a clean bore, and a full mechanical adjustment, it represents a strong player-grade instrument with vintage character.


The body is constructed from grenadilla wood with a 15.00mm (.590") bore and 65mm barrel, contributing to its open response and full-bodied sound. The instrument is in good overall condition, showing typical cosmetic wear including light scratches, nicks, and blemishes from normal use. Metal tenon caps are present on all joints. There are no cracks or previous repairs. A small chip is present in the bell, which does not affect playability. The bore has been cleaned and oiled, remaining in very good condition.


Pads, Corks & Mechanism


Completely repadded with blue leather pads

Pads properly seated for a consistent seal throughout

Tenon corks replaced where necessary

Key corks and quiet corks replaced where necessary

Fully adjusted and playtested for consistent response

Mechanism operating properly


Keys & Hardware


Nickel-plated keywork

Keywork machine polished and hand finished where necessary

Metal tenon caps on all joints

Smooth key action with typical signs of use


Case & Accessories


Original Boosey & Hawkes case (functionally good condition)

Used Buffet mouthpiece marked “F3A” and “125”

Generic ligature

Metal cap


Additional Notes

The Boosey & Hawkes Emperor was produced in England and positioned as an intermediate/advanced model within the company’s lineup. It features a larger bore design compared to many French clarinets, resulting in a more open feel and broader tonal profile. These instruments are known for their warm, dark sound and are often favored by players seeking a vintage tonal character. While not designed as a conservatory-level instrument, the Emperor remains a solid and underrated option, particularly when fully serviced as seen here.


Please refer to photos for cosmetic condition and demo video for playability.


Disclaimer


As-is sale

Buyer pays $30 toward shipping

All instruments are shipped with insurance and may require a signature upon delivery

All instruments are inspected and play-tested before shipping

It is recommended to have instrument inspected after shipping as minor adjustments may be needed

Additional setup work may be desired for personal playing preferences

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