Louis Eb Clarinet in exceptional condition.

This instrument is considered by many to be the Holy Grail of Eb clarinets. Only six Eb clarinets were crafted in Chelsea, London, between 1934 and 1938, making it an extremely rare find. This exceptional instrument received the approval of Charles Draper himself, adding to its prestige and desirability.

This is a commission sale, as the seller is reluctantly parting with his fine collection of rare and valuable instruments. The instrument is in excellent condition and has been lightly played in various recordings, TV sessions, and orchestral performances, particularly with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. However, it has primarily served as a spare instrument.

Notably, the seller’s main instrument is also a Louis Eb, showcasing his appreciation for quality craftsmanship. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a distinguished Eb Clarinet from a respected collection.

Original mouthpiece and case with locking key.

Information sourced from the internet:

In 1923, Draper established his own firm, The Louis Musical Instrument Company, located in Chelsea. The company specialized in manufacturing clarinets and a variety of wind instruments, including three-hole pipes that catered to the emerging folk-song movement. Eventually, The Louis Musical Instrument Company was absorbed by Rudall Carte & Company.

In addition to his work as a manufacturer, Draper served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, including the Royal College of Music (RCM), Trinity College of Music, Kneller Hall, and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Notably, he counted the renowned clarinetist Frederick Thurston among his students.

Draper was a member of Queen Victoria's private band during the final years of her reign, from 1899 to 1901. Following this, he served as Musician in Ordinary to Edward VII. In 1903, Draper was the soloist in the inaugural performance of Charles Villiers Stanford's Clarinet Concerto, a significant milestone in his career. Notably, Stanford later dedicated his Clarinet Sonata to Draper.

In 1905, Draper, in collaboration with flautist Eli Hudson, founded the New Symphony Orchestra, a cooperative and self-governing ensemble consisting of 46 players. Within a year, the orchestra had successfully recruited Thomas Beecham as its principal conductor. Under Beecham's leadership, the orchestra flourished and eventually evolved into the Royal Albert Hall Orchestra.

s/n 398

Condition 5*

Ref: 213C

COMMISSION SALE

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