Leblanc Paperclip Contrabass Clarinet Overview

The Leblanc Paperclip contrabass clarinet is one of the most recognizable folded-body contrabass clarinet designs, valued by low clarinet players, wind ensembles, clarinet choirs, and doublers who need the depth and color of the contrabass register without the footprint of a straight-bodied instrument. This used Model 340 has a range to low C, a plated metal body, and the distinctive Leblanc folded paperclip form that keeps the instrument more manageable for transport and performance while still serving the true contrabass clarinet role. The Model 340 belongs to Leblanc's specialty low-clarinet family and is best understood as a serious ensemble instrument for players who need extended low-register color, projection, and dependable mechanical setup.

Leblanc 340 Contrabass Clarinet Specifications

• Instrument Type: Contrabass clarinet
• Model: 340 Paperclip
• Range: To low C
• Body Style: Folded metal paperclip design
• Finish: Nickel plate finish
• Manufacturer Engraving: Leblanc Paris France
• Case: Hard case included
• Accessories: Mouthpiece, ligature, floor peg
• Serial number: 2118

Condition & Setup

This pre-owned Leblanc 340 has been professionally serviced, set up, and play-tested to ensure excellent playing condition and dependable performance from the moment it arrives. Service notes include cleaning, oil & adjust work, disassembly, cleaning and lubrication, dent work, post and key alignment, and spring replacement. The instrument shows normal used cosmetic wear, including surface scratches, scuffs, tarnish or oxidation, areas of finish dulling or discoloration, and discoloration inside the curved tubing. The included hard case shows visible wear from use. Mouthpiece and ligature are brand new Leblanc accessories.

Who the 340 Contrabass Clarinet Is For

The Leblanc 340 is best suited to advanced clarinetists, low-clarinet specialists, doublers, educators, and ensembles that need the sonority and foundation of a contrabass clarinet with an extended low C range. Its folded body design makes it especially practical for school, university, pit, and clarinet choir settings where the instrument must provide a stable low voice while remaining reasonably transportable compared with larger straight-body contrabass designs.

Common Questions About the Leblanc 340

What musical role does a low C contrabass clarinet serve?

A low C contrabass clarinet extends the clarinet choir or wind ensemble bass line below the standard bass clarinet range, adding depth, weight, and a distinctive reed color to low-register scoring.

Why is the Leblanc 340 called a paperclip contrabass clarinet?

The paperclip name refers to the folded metal body shape. The design preserves the long acoustical length required for contrabass clarinet pitch while making the instrument more compact than a straight vertical design.

What should a player evaluate on a used contrabass clarinet?

Low-register response, key regulation, pad seal, spring tension, floor peg stability, and mouthpiece compatibility are especially important on a used contrabass clarinet because small mechanical issues can strongly affect response across the extended range.

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