Leblanc BBb Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet with Range to Low C SN 2376

Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Overview

The Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet is a BBb contrabass clarinet in a compact folded paperclip design, built entirely from nickel silver and extending to low C for true contrabass range. This format keeps the instrument’s footprint smaller than a straight contrabass clarinet while maintaining the depth and authority expected in professional low-clarinet parts across large ensembles and contemporary scoring.

Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Specifications

• Instrument: BBb contrabass clarinet (paperclip body design)
• Range: Down to low C; approximately three-octave practical range
• Body material: Nickel silver (copper-nickel alloy)
• Key: BBb
• Keywork material:
• Finish: Nickel finish
• Case: Included
• Accessories: Mouthpiece, ligature, peg

Condition & Setup

Used instrument. The nickel finish shows well and the instrument has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested. It has been polished; pads requiring replacement were replaced, and the mechanism was regulated to ensure stable sealing and consistent response.

Who the Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Is For

A Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet is a BBb contrabass clarinet designed to deliver true foundational low-register clarinet tone while using a compact folded body layout. It is well suited to professional and university-level players performing contrabass clarinet parts in wind ensemble, orchestra, clarinet choir, film/session work, and modern repertoire where extended low range and reliable projection are required.

Compared with straight-body contrabass clarinets, the paperclip design reduces overall height and makes the instrument easier to accommodate in pits, rehearsal rooms, and storage without sacrificing the depth of sound expected from a low C contrabass. The all nickel-silver construction provides a rigid, durable platform for the mechanism and body, supporting a stable, centered response across the instrument’s working range.

Common Questions About The Leblanc Paperclip

What does “paperclip” mean on a contrabass clarinet?

Paperclip refers to the compact folded tubing design, where the body loops to reduce the instrument’s overall height compared with a straight contrabass clarinet.

Does this contrabass clarinet go to low C?

Yes. This Leblanc contrabass clarinet is specified with range to low C, which is a common requirement in modern wind ensemble and contemporary orchestration.

Is it suitable for professional use?

Yes. This model is intended for serious ensemble and specialty low-clarinet work, and this particular instrument has been professionally serviced, regulated, and play-tested to support reliable performance.

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