We all have our favorite brands in life, whether that’s a specific car, clothing line, or dish soap. We may stray from time to time, and we may even switch, but we have those brands we seem to gravitate to. That’s the way it is for me with Buffet Crampon clarinets.
When I started playing clarinet at the age of nine, I started on a Buffet. Then, when I launched my own shop, I determined that I would sell Buffet Crampon clarinets. Here’s why.
An Ode to Buffet Blue
I apprenticed with world-renowned clarinet technician Mark Jacobi (“Maestro Mark,” as I call him), who learned his craft directly from Buffet. He completed a Stage in France, learning from the makers at the Buffet Crampon factory in Mantes-la-Ville, France. He only has one company’s logo showcased in his shop besides his own: Buffet Crampon. Even his shop’s color scheme is “Buffet Blue!” For him, it’s about loyalty to the brand that’s served him so well.
Seemingly Endless Customization
As with anything that is made to be personalized, musical instruments can’t come out of a factory ready to play to their full potential—especially if you’re a professional. Buffet Crampon lets me handpick the instruments that I sell in my shop, and I put a lot of time into setting them up. When determining which clarinets to stock, I use objective means, such as ensuring that the instrument has proper tendencies throughout its full range. I’ve learned many methods from Maestro Mark about how to test clarinets, and he has even shared secrets about dimensions that can’t be found with a regular bore gauge. He has also taught me how to make custom tools and equipment with heavy machinery to determine measurements and other ideal elements of a new clarinet. I have yet to discover another brand of clarinet that can hold up to this scrutiny. And the remarkably nuanced, gorgeous acoustical qualities of Buffet Crampon clarinets are unmatched.
Buffet Crampon Is My Preferred Choice
While I love helping any clients who come into my shop for repairs, I will always have a certain affinity for Buffet Crampon clarinets. I play them, and I enjoy working on them as well. But don’t think I don’t enjoy other brands. Whether you currently play Buffet, want to buy a Buffet, or you’re loyal to another brand, I’d love to talk to you to learn how you feel about playing. After all, we all have our preferences, and we can all make beautiful music together.