How much does a clarinet weigh?

Clarinets weigh between 1 and 50 lbs. The weight mostly varies based on different factors such as the materials used in their making, the brand that makes them, the type of clarinet, bore size, and keywork.

When choosing woodwind instruments such as clarinet, most people pay more attention to things like sound and quality and overlook other crucial factors such as weight. This is one of the things that you should pay attention to when buying a clarinet since it can determine your overall experience using this instrument. Read on to learn more!

Why the weight of a clarinet matters

Whether buying a clarinet for an adult or young player, you need to consider the weight. Though most adults can easily lift most clarinets, some young players may struggle to hold heavy clarinets for a long time. For a young player, you may have to choose a lightweight model to prevent them from straining.

How much do clarinets weigh?

The weight of a clarinet often varies. As you compare different models, you may encounter clarinets with varying weights. The weight of these musical instruments often ranges between 1 and 50 lbs.

The factors that determine the weight of a clarinet

Type

If you are looking for the lightest clarinet that even a young player can use without straining, you should consider an EB. Also known as an E-flat clarinet, this is smaller and lighter than other types. Its total length is about 49 cm. You can get an Eb clarinet that is around 1lb. Anyone can use such a clarinet, including a child. Though an Eb clarinet is among the lightest types, it can cost you more than others since it is often expensive.

On the other hand, a bass clarinet is heavier. Most bass clarinets often weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. The keys of this clarinet can be around 1.7 feet in length. In terms of length, it can be 3ft taller. If you are looking for a clarinet for a child, this is not the best type since it can be too heavy for them.

The Bass clarinet features a rubber ball or pointy, which makes it more stable and easy to handle. Though the weight makes it less suitable for a child, an adult can find it more manageable. If you pick this type of clarinet, you can utilize a unique carry construction that goes around your chest and shoulder to offer it more support during playing.

If you are still looking for a lighter clarinet, you should consider a Bb clarinet. Most Bb clarinets are not only lightweight but also easy to play.

Here is a summary of the clarinet’s weight based on the type

Type	Weight
EB clarinet	1lb
Bass clarinet	30-50 lbs
Bb clarinet	2-5 lbs

Material

Apart from the type, the material used to make clarinets also plays a role in how heavy or light they can be. If, for instance, you need a light clarinet that even a young player can handle, consider one made from plastic. Plastic clarinets are easy to handle since they often weigh less.

When it comes to weight, plastic clarinets are followed by wood ones, then those made from hard rubber. When comparing the material of a clarinet against its weight, you should also assess how thick its body is. Most clarinets that don’t have very thick bodies are often lighter compared to those with thicker bodies.

Bore size and keywork

This can also determine the weight of a clarinet. Most clarinets that have a small bore allow for a small body diameter and are, therefore, lighter than those with a larger bore. For example, most alto clarinets have a bore that ranges from 0.670 and 0.710, while bass clarinets have bores between 0.905 and 0.945″.

On the other hand, Eb clarinets have a smaller bore of around 0.530″. The smaller bore in Eb clarinets contributes to their light weight compared to the other types. Besides the bore size, the amount of key work in a clarinet can also play a role in its overall weight.

What else should you consider as you think about the weight of a clarinet?

If, for instance, you buy a heavy clarinet, you can pick one that comes with a case. This can make it easy to transport from one location to the next, especially if you plan on playing it in concerts or during rehearsals.

Apart from the weight of the clarinet, you should also assess the weight of the case so that you don’t get one that will keep on weighing you down. The lightest cases are soft cases. Though these increase portability, they may not give an expensive clarinet ample protection.

On the other hand, hard cases are heavier, but they can protect an expensive clarinet much better. As you compare clarinets and their cases, you have to think about which factor is more important to you. If you choose a clarinet with a heavy case, you can go for one with a shoulder or backpack strap since this can be more manageable. Such a case can distribute its weight better.

Conclusion

The weight of a clarinet varies based on different factors such as the type, material used to make it, bore size, and keywork. Before picking a clarinet, you should consider the weight so that you can get one that is easy to handle. Clarinet’s weight often ranges from 1 to 50 lbs based on the mentioned factors. As you consider its weight, you should also think about getting one with a case to make it more portable.

FAQs

Which is the lightest clarinet?

Eb clarinets are the lightest. These are great for beginners and even young players since they are easy to handle.

Does the brand play a role in the weight of a clarinet?

Yes. As you compare different models, you will realize that their weights also vary based on the brand. This is because some clarinet manufacturers pay more attention to the weight of a clarinet than others.