It can be difficult to choose a beginner clarinet as a beginner clarinetist. There are so many possibilities available with woodwind instruments that it’s difficult to know where to begin. It’s difficult to tell what qualities are vital and if it’ll be any good when it comes to material, bore size, barrel size, and the many various brands, models in different keys, and different designs.
We’ve put together a thorough guide to choosing a beginning clarinet to help you go through all the jargon and make the best decision as abeginner student. We’ve also included reviews of some of our favorite beginner clarinets to help you decide which one to buy.
Table of Contents
Yamaha YCL 255 Standard B-flat Clarinet
- Bb Clarinet with Matte ABS Resin Body
- Nickel-plated Keys
- 4C Mouthpiece
This Yamaha Standard Bb clarinet is a great beginner instrument that will last a long time. It’s ideal for first-year students who plan to play for a long time. Yamaha clarinets range from basic to professional level. Although it is more expensive than comparable student instruments, it is well worth the money.
It’s based on Yamaha’s professional line of clarinets, but ycl 255 standard bb clarinet is still made of a tough ABS resin, making it one of the best student clarinets on the market. It also has Valentino pads that can endure temperature changes and are long-lasting. For the dedicated student, this is a good beginner clarinet.
The tapered undercut tone holes are one among the instrument’s numerous distinguishing traits. These tone holes enable for better intonation and a more enjoyable playing experience. Students may easily add a neck strap for increased support thanks to the strap ring on the thumb rest. The body of the clarinet is composed of ABS plastic. Due to its professional design, this instrument produces a warm and resonant sound, unlike other plastic clarinets. The key work is nickel plated, which ensures long-term durability and compatibility with individuals who are allergic to silver.
With its matte finish, this instrument resembles wood clarinets. Despite being a student instrument, it has a professional appearance. It may be used both inside and outside, from marching bands to indoor concerts, due to its durability. For serious student, this clarinet is a professionally designed instrument. Because of its longevity and playability, it is well worth the money. This is the best Clarinet for beginners in 2023.
Jean Paul USA CL-300 Student Clarinet
- Key of BB with a Boehm 17 key system
- Beautiful ebonite Body material
- Nickel-plated keys for a clear and focused tone
This is a budget-friendly student clarinet that is well-made and long-lasting. It’s ideal for someone who is just starting out and requires an instrument that can be played both outside and inside. Because of the ebonite materials utilized in the instrument’s body, it is simple to play and has a pleasant tone. It also includes all of the necessary accessories to get you started playing right away. Although the features and specifications appear to be modest, the quality of the materials shows through.
The body of this clarinet is composed of ebonite, which gives it a deeper tone color than clarinets made of ABS. The keys are additionally nickel-plated, making them robust and suitable for people who are allergic to silver. The ebonite body of this instrument has an exquisite matte finish. It has a professional appearance and might be used in a variety of performing scenarios.
It’s also ideal for individuals who have never played the clarinet before. It comes with all of the necessary equipment to get started playing right away. The combination of affordability and quality results in a fantastic student clarinet with an ebonite body for a rich tone. It comes with all of the necessary equipment to get started playing the instrument.
The exceptional quality of the Jean Paul USA CL-300 Student Clarinet makes it the best. It includes a thinner vamp cut that makes it easier for novices to play, as well as all the necessary equipment to learn how to play. It even comes with a sturdy carrying case to make transporting your clarinet a breeze. This is one of the best Clarinets for beginners in 2023.
Eastar ECL-300 Black Ebonite B Flat Student Clarinet
- 🎵Experience Pure Sound – Experience a wide range of pure and rich...
- ✔️Quality You Can Trust – Made with high-level ABS bakelite and...
- ✨Discover the Joy of Playing – Whether you're a beginner or...
This Eastar clarinet has a lot of innovative features for a very low price. It’s a simple, dependable instrument with a pleasing sound. For this pricing range, the key work is quite decent, allowing for more flexibility when playing fast. Because this is one of the most affordable clarinets on the market, there may be some quality control issues that cannot be avoided. When compared to comparable clarinets at about $100, the Easter clarinet is unbeatable.
The two sheep casing pads, which ensure that the clarinet seals properly, are one of the instrument’s major features. Another fantastic feature is the high carbon steel needle springs, which ensure that the keys are less prone to lose their spring. The clarinet’s body is made of ABS bakelite, a tough material that can tolerate temperature and humidity fluctuations. The nickel-plated keys also contribute to the instrument’s durability.
The clarinet has a matte finish that gives it a professional appearance. It has the appearance of wood and would look excellent in a performance setting. This instrument has a lot of features for such a low price. It’s ideal for folks who are just getting started but desire sophisticated features. This is undoubtedly one of the greatest student clarinets for the money.
Jupiter JCL700N Student Bb Clarinet
- Offset Trill Keys are of the traditional French configuration helping to...
- ABS Resin Body provides a durable alternative to a wood body perfect for...
- Nickel-Plated Nickel Silver Keys offer the combination of great feel and...
The Jupiter JCL700N is a student model clarinet that is suitable for both beginners and advanced players. It has a.583″ bore, a matte ABS resin finish, a nickel silver bell ring, a Comfortable C/G key riser, undercut tone holes, and an adjustable thumb rest.
At first look, this instrument appears to be much more expensive than many other student clarinets on the market. However, it appears that many band directors recommend this device, and it is durable enough to sustain everyday use. This instrument also has a number of professional features that allow students to learn more easily and grow with fewer hassles.
Offset trill keys, which help with moisture build-up, are one of the key features. Furthermore, the register key is designed for ease of use and includes undercut tone holes to aid in intonation. This clarinet is made of ABS, which is the industry standard for plastic clarinets. This instrument is extremely durable, thanks to the nickel-plated keys. This is a well-made instrument with a lot of advanced features. It’s the best beginner clarinet.
Buffet Crampon Premium Student Bb Clarinet
- Cpolymeric ABS body Ringless bell with flat bottom Black nickel tenon rings...
- Buffet Crampon reaffirms its position as a market leader by bringing out a...
- Stressing accessibility and reliability, their Premium family of clarinets...
This is a gorgeous clarinet from a reputable clarinet manufacturer. Years of clarinet-making experience have gone into the design, which is combined with low-cost materials to create a fantastic school instrument. Because the design is based on Buffet Crampon’s professional line of clarinets, this instrument has a superior sound quality and intonation than cheaper clarinets. It has various high-end features, such as silver plated keys and fish-skin pads, which set it apart from other student-grade instruments. However, because of these characteristics, it would necessitate additional upkeep and responsibility in order to properly care for the instrument.
The barrel of this best intermediate clarinet is inspired by Buffet Crampon’s entry-level professional clarinet. Despite the low cost of the supplies, the sound will be closer to that of a professional studio. The twin fish skin pads, which have a better seal than other pad materials, are another essential characteristic.
The instrument is constructed from co-polymetric ABS plastic. It is carefully drilled in a German manufacturer. The main work is done in China, where Buffet Crampon built a factory specifically for this clarinet. In the student market, the silver keywork is unusual. This means that the instrument’s mechanics and feel will be improved.
The matte finish of this clarinet is both professional and attractive. With proper care, the silver-plated keys will have a gleaming appearance. The tenon rings are black nickel-plated and blend nicely with the black body. This is a professional-quality clarinet with stunning silver keywork at an affordable price. For the committed student, it is an excellent investment as the best student clarinet.
Yamaha YCL-650 Bb Clarinet
- Bb Clarinet with Grenadilla Body
- Silver-plated Keys
- 4CM Mouthpiece
While the Yamaha YCL-650 is classified as a professional level clarinet, it is still a cost-effective solution for your serious advanced student at around $2,000. The body is made of grenadilla wood, with silver-plated key work and a cylindrical bore that makes tuning a breeze.
Although the Yamaha YCL-650 is more expensive and may not be appropriate for a beginner, it is an excellent choice for the more advanced student at a reasonable price for the quality.
It will provide a lovely, warm sound because it is a wooden clarinet. The high quality of craftsmanship ensures that you will not need to replace this instrument for a very long time. Bottom line, the YCL-650 is the best professional level clarinet at an affordable price.
Mendini MCT-E+SD+PB Black Ebonite B Flat Clarinet with Case
- COMPLETE SET - This is the best beginners clarinet for students starting...
- EASY TO USE - This clarinet cleaning kit and instrument set is super...
- ELEGANT & DURABLE - With a smooth, sleek finish, our clarinets are crafted...
This is a budget-friendly clarinet for individuals who wish to learn how to play the clarinet but don’t have a lot of money. Prior to shipping, quality check is performed to ensure that you receive an instrument that is ready to play as soon as you open the box. For younger children who desire something different, the bright colors are a plus. However, it may not last as long or be as well crafted as other reputable brands.
The B Flat Clarinet is no exception to Mendini’s reputation for high-quality instruments. It is extremely affordable and is designed specifically for students, with a beginner’s book, case, stand, and even cleaning equipment included to get you started! While the gloves aren’t the most practical, they’re a considerate inclusion that beginners will appreciate.
The clarinet’s robust body, composed of high-grade ebonite, and nickel-plated keys are features you’ll like. It’s what gives you a nice tone that stays the same the whole time you’re using it. It’s well worth the money because of its inexpensive cost and adequate sound. This is the best cheap clarinet.
Herche Superior Bb Clarinet M2
- NEW UPGRADED MOUTHPIECE & DOUBLE BARREL - The Herche Superior Clarinet...
- 1-YEAR REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE PLAN FOR FREE! - Why would you pay more for a...
- HIGH QUALITY ABS RESIN BODY DESIGNED TO LAST A LIFETIME- our clarinet...
Even experienced players will appreciate the Herche Superior Bb Clarinet’s constant professional tone. The pleasant sound of the instrument blends wonderfully with the fluid key work and precise positioning, offering you a relaxing experience while playing.
All of Herche’s clarinets have been thoroughly inspected and adjusted by professional technicians in the United States, ensuring that you are getting the genuine article. This clarinet is suitable for all novice and intermediate performers, whether they are playing in a band, symphony, or wind ensemble. This model may be most suited to students in band, especially those with a few years of expertise.
The Superior Bb Clarinet features high-quality construction, blue steel springs, high-quality nickel/silver keys, and long-lasting double bladder pads for the best user experience.
The Herche Superior, like most of the other wood clarinet on our list, comes with a plush-lined carrying box to safeguard your clarinet, but the one-year repair plan, which includes reeds, cleaning swab, clarinet mouthpiece, and cork grease, adds added peace of mind. All of this comes at a very low cost for a high-quality entry-level clarinet.
Lazarro 150-BK-L B-Flat Bb Clarinet Black
- Are You looking for your new Clarinet, to fulfill all your musical needs -...
- Our "Lazarro" clarinets are perfect for any occasions: lessons, concerts,...
- We are a USA Brand that you can trust 100%. Our clarinets are not just...
The Lazarro clarinet is a colorful instrument that may be played in a variety of ways. It contains all of the qualities that a basic student instrument should have like a bass clarinet. However, there are also issues about air leakage and the instrument’s overall quality. It is, however, an affordable solution for beginners who do not want to make a large investment right away.
The bell and barrel, which help with a focused tone and longevity, are two crucial aspects of this instrument. This instrument is one of a kind in that it is available in both nickel-plated and gold-colored finishes. This may give the instrument a new sound. The body is made of either ebonite or ABS plastic, allowing the learner to select their preferred material.
Unlike any of the other inexpensive clarinet companies, this clarinet boasts a wide range of color possibilities. You have the option of selecting your preferred color scheme. It’s worth noting that the black color has a classic matte finish that looks like wood. This is a low-cost instrument with a wide range of color selections. It’s an excellent first instrument for determining whether or not a pupil enjoys playing the clarinet.
Hisonic Signature Series 2610 Bb Orchestra Clarinet with Case
- Prestini pads that are Made in the USA
- Nickel-silver keys, Bright Tone, Clarinet is made of Ebonite
- Includes: Cork grease and clarinet swab
The Hisonic Signature Series 2610 clarinet is now available, and it is a beautifully crafted instrument with a high-quality tone at an accessible price. It’s not only simple to play, but it’s also a good choice for beginning clarinetists on a budget.
The nickel-silver keys and ebonite body provide it durability and function, and it creates a clean, focused tone ideal for most types of performances. This clarinet has a bright tone thanks to Hisonic, and it’s a good workhorse for marching band, orchestra, or jazz band (or anywhere a beginner clarinet player wants to practice).
Of course, as your talents improve, a more advanced and fine-tuned instrument may be required. Most student band players, on the other hand, will like the clarinet’s appearance, weight, and performance. Meanwhile, this excellent beginning clarinet comes with everything you’ll need to get started, including a case, Yamaha 4C mouthpiece, cleaning swab, and cork grease, although you’ll need to purchase reeds separately.
For the price, the Hisonic clarinet is an excellent student instrument. It is not as dependable in terms of quality due to its low cost. However, it will most likely endure a number of years of playing before you determine whether or not you want to upgrade your clarinet. The Prestini pads, which are an advanced feature on this instrument, are also available. This will provide a bit more durability as well as a better seal.
EASTROCK Clarinet Bb Flat 17 Nickel Keys Beginner Clarinet for Student
- Clarinet offers sturdy construction with classic looks and sound.Key of...
- Eastrock Clarinet surface made of matte finish which are good elasticity ,...
- Memory needle spring made of high-carbon steel, quick reaction, good...
Whether you’re buying a clarinet for your child or learning to play as an adult, the EastRock’s Bb Flat 17 Clarinet is a fantastic selection for beginners and intermediate players. Longevity is ensured by the strong construction, which is combined with traditional appearances and sound. This clarinet’s matte surface and high-carbon steel memory needle spring ensure that it will endure the abuse that a beginning player will dish out.
This clarinet has a stunning style and sound, with an attractive ebonite body and nickel keys. EastRock clarinets are inspected by technicians to guarantee that their high-quality standards are met, making them a fantastic choice for any musician.
The clarinet from EastRock has innovative hole-opening technology that reduces errors and properly calculates the pitch stability. The clarinet produces an overall high-quality tone with no errors thanks to its flexible buttons and quick responsiveness.
It’s a decent starting clarinet that’s equivalent to much more expensive versions, however we’d probably recommend replacing the mouthpiece at some point. But it’s more than adequate for getting started. With that in mind, we appreciate that it’s another complete kit clarinet that includes a high-quality case, gloves, a screwdriver, a cleaning cloth, a shoulder strap, cork joint lubricant, a leather wooden case, and even a clarinet stand, making it really practical and a good choice for the best professional clarinet.
Jean Baptiste JBCL290XX Premium Student Clarinet Outfit
- ABS plastic body
- Nickel-plated keys
- Includes soft case and mouthpiece
Instruments from Jean Baptiste are designed with the student in mind. In general, they believe that the instrument should be able to be played immediately out of the box. This instrument is a fantastic beginner instrument because of its durability. For continued success in music learning, it is critical to begin on a good instrument. Although it is slightly more expensive than the cheapest clarinets, the exceptional quality and ease of playability make it worthwhile.
The lack of tenon rings on the barrel is an intriguing feature of this instrument. As a result, the sound has a better chance of resonating and producing a better tone. It boasts a matte finish and an appealing appearance overall. This is one of the best clarinets for intermediate players.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Beginner Clarinet?
A clarinet belongs to the woodwind family of instruments. The instrument has a flared bell and is shaped like a piccolo or flute. The air pressure within the instrument causes vibrations, which are then released as a musical sound through the bell. The Bb soprano clarinet is generally considered the ‘normal’ standard. It’s also the most adaptable and simple to learn for kids.
Beginner clarinets are designed for those who are just starting out with the instrument. These clarinets are built of more robust plastic and strong rubber components, allowing them to endure severe treatment by unskilled students.
The instruments also require less tune than professional clarinets, making them easier to play. Budget-friendly rates are also ensured through the use of less expensive but long-lasting materials and mass production techniques. The lower prices save parents money by preventing them from investing huge quantities of money in an instrument that their child may not continue to play in the long run.
What are Clarinets made of?
Clarinets are available in two different materials: plastic and wood. In terms of durability, plastic models will withstand drops and other hard handling better, making them a better choice for beginners and younger pupils.
Given how much a marching band student moves, plastic may be preferable to wood, and they may be more likely to drop their instrument.
Wooden clarinets are more delicate, yet there’s a case to be made that they sound better and warmer. It’s not that a plastic model couldn’t produce excellent sound; it certainly can. A wooden clarinet is an excellent alternative if your kid is more responsible or less likely to drop out.
How much does a Clarinet cost?
Clarinets can cost anywhere from $100 to over $3,000, so it all depends on the type of investment you want to make for yourself or your student. Models that are more expensive should be viewed as long-term investments.
However, you may discover that a less expensive clarinet is more suitable for your needs. Many clarinets in the mid-range are also worth considering, as they combine both affordability and quality craftsmanship.