Buffet Crampon BCXXI Bb (19 Keys) - BC1158GL-2-0

BCXXI: Buffet Crampon's Heritage Projected into a New Century

Buffet Crampon holds a central place in the history of the modern clarinet: in the 19th century, Louis-Auguste Buffet and Hyacinthe Klosé contributed to the evolution of the key system by drawing inspiration from ring keys, and they durably shaped the instrument's distinctive sound signature. In the 20th century, Robert Carrée, in collaboration with clarinetist Jacques Lancelot, perfected the acoustic design and elevated the concept of "bore families" by creating two models that became references: the R13 (1954) and the RC (1975).

With the BCXXI, Buffet Crampon claims a new milestone: a professional clarinet conceived as a true musical laboratory, developed with renowned test musicians, and incorporating an in-depth reflection on the instrument's internal architecture. The goal is clear: to push beyond traditional constraints while preserving the Buffet Crampon sound identity and a familiar feel for demanding clarinetists.

Who Is This Clarinet For?

The Buffet Crampon BCXXI is primarily aimed at advanced clarinetists, conservatory students, and professionals seeking a Bb clarinet capable of expressing a wide palette of colors, with solid intonation and consistent response. It naturally fits into classical music (soloist, orchestra, chamber music) and is also suitable for musicians navigating between contemporary repertoire and hybrid projects, thanks to its stability in the altissimo register and the opening of new fingering possibilities.

Its practical value for repertoire is also significant: access to the low Eb allows rediscovery of works and passages that are usually challenging, while maintaining continuity of sound and projection in the chalumeau register.

Sound and Design

The BCXXI stands out by a design that directly influences the vibration of the air column. The elongated lower joint promotes a more ample chalumeau register, with a "wood" sensation in the sound (grain, depth, roundness), while helping altissimo stability. The shorter bell is no longer just an element that "locks" certain fundamentals: it also acts more as a global resonator, contributing to the instrument's homogeneity.

Regarding playability, choices are oriented toward precision and comfort: a third fingering for middle Bb opens the way to smoother transitions and new phrasing solutions, while the left-hand balance (notably in sensitive combinations) has been particularly refined. The slight ergonomic bump at the D hole helps keep the fingers on a more stable plane, improving control and consistency of response.

The clarinet is made from grenadilla (a dense and stable wood highly appreciated for its projection and harmonic richness) and combines modern material choices, notably through Green LinE inserts on the upper joint. The keywork, mechanics, and pads are designed for professional use, with reliable response and durability, while preserving a precise playing sensation under the fingers.

Recommended Compatible Accessories

To get the best out of this Bb clarinet, you can pair it with Bb clarinet reeds suited to your style (quick response for orchestra and chamber music, more resistance for a very focused sound), a body swab (in addition to the one provided) for regular maintenance, as well as cork grease to preserve the tenons. A standard clarinet stand is also a practical addition for rehearsals and stage use.

Technical specifications

Level	Professional	System	Boehm
Tone	Bb	Color	Black
Body material	Grenadilla

Pitch	440/442 Hz	Posts	metal with O-rings
Bore	cylindrical Buffet Crampon	Springs	cold-forged and blued
Inserts	in Green LinE on the upper joint body positions	Pads	combination of GT pads (100% waterproof and breathable) and natural cork pads
Fitted	on the tenons	Finishing	silver-plated and gold-plated
Number of keys	19	2 barrels	65 mm and 66 mm
Number of rings	6	Included accessories	case, Harmonie rose gold ligature with silver screws, silver-plated Buffet Crampon mouthpiece cap, Buffet Crampon cleaning swab
Eb lever	yes	Instrument adjustment	by a luthier
Thumb rest	adjustable