Albert system clarinet in Bb, low pitch
Godfroy Ainé was a large family company of wood wind makers in France.
This is the first time I ever see a clarinet of the brand. But I know their flutes are particularly sought after. This clarinet is a fine player, but it is not quite the same standard as e.g. Selmer’s Albert clarinets.
I find it difficult to tell which of the family companies actually manufactured the clarinet. But the key work leads the idea of a production date towards 1920-30.
The Godfroy Ainé clarinet has been serviced and plays perfectly. It is cleaned and lubricated, no cracks in the wood. The mechanics are tight and firm.
This instrument is made of grenadilla wood and measures 59,4 cm from top of barrel to bottom of bell. The bore is 14,50 mm and the total weight is 657 grams.
The pitch is A 440 with a Vandoren B45 mouthpiece.
The wood is good. All tenons are intact.
The original barrel was destroyed! I found a replacement that fits in both length and bore from the brand Jerome Thibouville-Lamy. Even more or less the same age as the clarinet. It has a crack repair which is beautifully done, probably decades ago. But you actually can see the ends of the pins used.
There is a repair on one of the low F keys (see photo). A loose pad cup has been silver soldered back on. The plating is gone in a small area, so less pretty at that point. Cosmetic issue only.
Unfortunally the inside of the case is badly damaged! It will be good for shipping only.
The clarinet is perhaps 100 years old, and you might need adjustments for your own personal taste, like a different spring tension etc…
Important for this Godfroy Ainé clarinet:
I would ask you to “warm up / break in” the clarinet gently. Play for about half an hour every day for at least a month. Not anymore. The wood needs to be reminded that it is actually a clarinet and needs to get used to changes in humidity again.
Please note that although it looks pretty in the photos, it is not a new clarinet. both wood and keys show signs of wear.
.
The price is DKK 2.400,- (EUR 325,-) plus shipping.
Don’t hesitate to contact me if You are interested or have any questions.
– And please remember I’m not a professional repairman. If there are issues I can’t handle, I take it to a professional.
The Godfroy Ainé clarinet is sold as it is, no guarantee or money back.
Sometimes I have more clarinets for sale. Check it out here: