The clarinet is a beautiful and versatile woodwind instrument used in classical, jazz, and contemporary music. Whether you’re a beginner, a student, or a professional musician, the cost of a clarinet can vary widely depending on factors like material, brand, craftsmanship, and intended use. Understanding these price differences will help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next instrument.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average costs of clarinets at different levels—beginner, intermediate, and professional—and explain what makes some models more expensive than others. We’ll also discuss whether renting or buying is the better option for new players and highlight the best value-for-money clarinets on the market.
The Price Range of Clarinets
Clarinet prices can range from under 100forabasicplasticmodel∗∗to∗∗over10,000 for a custom-made professional instrument. The cost depends on:
- Material (plastic, resin, grenadilla wood, or composite)
- Brand reputation (Buffet Crampon, Yamaha, Selmer, Backun)
- Handcrafted vs. mass-produced
- Key system (Boehm vs. German)
- Additional features (adjustable thumb rests, silver-plated keys)
Beginner Clarinets: Affordable and Durable
For new players, plastic or ABS resin clarinets are the most practical choice. They are durable, low-maintenance, and budget-friendly, making them ideal for students.
Average cost: 200–800
Best models:
- Yamaha YCL-255 (~$600) – A reliable student clarinet with good intonation.
- Buffet B12 (~$800) – A sturdy option with a decent tone for beginners.
- Jean Paul USA CL-300 (~$300) – A budget-friendly pick for young learners.
These clarinets are designed to withstand rough handling and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for school band programs.
Intermediate Clarinets: Better Tone and Playability
As players advance, they often upgrade to grenadilla wood or composite clarinets, which offer richer sound and improved response.
Average cost: 1,000–3,000
Best models:
- Buffet E13 (~$2,500) – A step-up clarinet with professional-grade features.
- Yamaha YCL-650 (~$2,200) – Known for excellent tuning and smooth key action.
- Selmer CL211 (~$1,800) – A balanced choice for advancing students.
These instruments are more sensitive to humidity and temperature changes than plastic models, so proper care is essential.
Professional Clarinets: Premium Craftsmanship
Professional clarinets are handmade from high-quality grenadilla wood, with precision keywork for superior performance. Orchestral and solo musicians prefer these models for their rich, complex tones and flawless intonation.
Average cost: 3,000–10,000+
Best models:
- Buffet Tosca (~$6,000) – A top choice for orchestral players.
- Backun MoBa Cocobolo (~$8,000) – Custom-made with exotic wood for a unique sound.
- Selmer Privilege (~$5,500) – Favored for its dark, velvety tone.
Some limited-edition or artist-signed models can exceed $15,000, especially if they feature gold-plated keys or rare wood.
Should You Rent or Buy?
For beginners, renting a clarinet can be a smart option, with costs averaging 20–50 per month. Many music stores offer rent-to-own programs, allowing you to apply rental fees toward a future purchase.
However, if you’re committed to long-term playing, buying a mid-range clarinet (~1,000–2,000) provides better value over time.
Conclusion
The average clarinet cost varies significantly based on skill level and quality:
- Beginner: 200–800 (plastic/resin)
- Intermediate: 1,000–3,000 (grenadilla wood)
- Professional: 3,000–10,000+ (handcrafted premium models)
If you’re just starting, a student model like the Yamaha YCL-255 is a great investment. For serious players, upgrading to a Buffet E13 or professional Tosca will enhance your musical expression.
No matter your budget, choosing the right clarinet will help you play better, sound better, and enjoy music more. Happy playing!
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