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Student Clarinets

10 Best Student Clarinets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Vangoa Bb Clarinet, B Flat Beginner Student Clarinet Bb Nickel-Plated for School Band Orchestra adult kid with Hard Case, Stand, Cleaning Kit, Barrels, Gloves, Strap, Pads, Reeds

Vangoa Bb Clarinet, B Flat Beginner Student Clarinet Bb Nickel-Plated for School Band Orchestra adult kid with Hard Case, Stand, Cleaning Kit, Barrels, Gloves, Strap, Pads, Reeds

Vangoa

9.8 score

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The Vangoa Bb Clarinet is designed for beginners and students, offering several notable features and benefits. Made from durable and lightweight synthetic ABS material, it ensures a rich and warm tone which is important for producing a quality sound. The instrument also includes a new 17-key French bore design that promotes smooth playing and stable, pure tones. The ergonomically designed nickel-plated keywork provides a comfortable playing experience and a strong, sturdy build. This is beneficial for learners who need a reliable instrument to practice with regularly.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,362
Mouthpiece

Most important from
180 reviews

Mouthpiece
Upgrading the reeds and mouthpiece can significantly enhance the playing experience.
#2
9.6 score

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Yamaha

9.6 score

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The Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet is designed specifically for novice players, making it a solid choice for students starting their musical journey. One of its main strengths is the matte ABS resin body, which offers durability and a lighter weight compared to wooden clarinets. This is particularly beneficial for young players who may struggle with heavier instruments. The nickel-plated keys provide a smooth action, enhancing playability and ensuring that beginners can easily navigate the instrument.

Rating
9.6
Material
Keywork

Most important from
147 reviews

Material
The Yamaha YCL-255 offers the highest quality of sound and material, making it a fantastic starter model.
Keywork
The keys and pads are smooth and extremely responsive, contributing to a wonderful playing experience.
#3
9.3 score

Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet with Nickel Keys

8%OFF

Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet with Nickel Keys

YAMAHA

9.3 score

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The Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet is a strong option for students. It's made with nickel, which makes it durable and resistant to tarnish. The nickel-plated keys add to its sleek modern look and help with smooth playability. The clarinet is in the key of B Flat, which is standard and suitable for a wide range of student music pieces.

Rating
9.3
Material
Case
Brand Reputation

Most important from
32 reviews

Material
This clarinet offers excellent playability, with smooth key action and a beautiful wooden finish.
Case
While the clarinet itself meets expectations, there were some concerns about receiving a different, inferior case than advertised.
Brand Reputation
Yamaha's reputation for quality and reliability shines through with this clarinet, making it a trusted choice for students.

Top 10 Best Student Clarinets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8  score
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Vangoa

Vangoa Bb Clarinet, B Flat Beginner Student Clarinet Bb Nickel-Plated for School Band Orchestra adult kid with Hard Case, Stand, Cleaning Kit, Barrels, Gloves, Strap, Pads, Reeds

Material: Synthetic ABS, Nickel
Keywork: Nickel-plated
Bore Size: 17-key French bore
Mouthpiece: 4C
Case: hard case

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Chosen by 1362 this week

#2
9.6  score
Slide 1

Yamaha

Yamaha YCL-255 Student Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: ABS resin, Nickel
Keywork: Nickel-plated keys
Bore Size: well-designed
Mouthpiece: 4C
Brand Reputation: Yamaha makes reliable instruments

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#3
9.3  score
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YAMAHA

Yamaha YCL450 Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: Nickel
Keywork: Nickel-plated keys
Case: CLC-400EII
Brand Reputation: Yamaha is well-regarded

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8% OFF
#4
9.1  score
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Henri Selmer

Selmer Student Model CL301 Bb Clarinet

Material: Plastic with wood-like finish
Keywork: Nickel-plated
Mouthpiece: Rubber

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#5
8.8  score
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Jinqu

YANASON Bb clarinet for beginners, Bb nickel-plated 17-keys clarinet, suitable for students, professionals, school bands with Hard Foam Case,Barrels*2,Pads*8,Stand, Cleaning Kit,Gloves,Strap,Reeds*8

Material: synthetic ABS
Keywork: nickel-plated 17 keys with trill keys
Mouthpiece: adjustable mouthpiece joint
Case: hard foam case
Brand Reputation: good satisfaction and quick support

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#6
8.5  score
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Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon E11 Intermediate Bb Clarinet - Silver-plated Keys

Material: African Blackwood
Keywork: silver-plated keys
Brand Reputation: Buffet Crampon respected brand

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#7
8.3  score
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Jupiter

Jupiter Intermediate Grenadilla Bb Clarinet, JCL750N

Material: Wood, ABS, grenadilla
Keywork: Nickel
Bore Size: Optimized for play

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#8
8.0  score
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Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon E-11 Clarinet

Material: Unstained African Blackwood
Keywork: Nickel-plated keys
Case: Yes
Brand Reputation: Reputable brand for high-quality instruments

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#9
7.7  score
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Buffet Crampon

Buffet R13S Clarinet Silver Plate Keys

Material: Unstained Grenadilla wood, Silver-plated keys
Keywork: Silver-plated keys
Mouthpiece: Included
Brand Reputation: Solid reputation in instrument industry

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#10
7.4  score
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Buffet Crampon

Buffet Crampon R13 Professional Bb Clarinet with Nickel Keys

Material: Wood, Nickel, Metal
Keywork: Nickel
Case: Deluxe naugahyde case, plush interior
Brand Reputation: Strong quality and durability reputation

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Buying Guide for the Best Student Clarinets

Choosing the right clarinet as a student can be a rewarding experience. It's important to find an instrument that suits your level of play, is comfortable to handle, and produces a good sound. As a student, you want a clarinet that is durable, easy to maintain, and offers good value for your investment. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a student clarinet and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
MaterialClarinets are typically made from either plastic (resin) or wood. Plastic clarinets are more durable and less affected by changes in temperature and humidity, making them ideal for beginners and younger students. Wooden clarinets, usually made from grenadilla wood, offer a richer, warmer sound but require more care and maintenance. For most students, a plastic clarinet is a practical choice due to its resilience and lower maintenance needs.
KeyworkThe keywork of a clarinet refers to the metal keys and rods that cover the tone holes. Nickel-plated keys are common on student clarinets because they are durable and resistant to tarnish. Silver-plated keys are also available and offer a more professional look and feel, but they require more maintenance to keep them shiny. For students, nickel-plated keys are generally sufficient and easier to maintain.
Bore SizeThe bore size of a clarinet affects the instrument's tone and playability. Student clarinets typically have a standard bore size, which provides a balanced tone and is easier to play for beginners. Larger bore sizes can produce a fuller sound but may be more challenging to control. As a student, sticking with a standard bore size will help you develop your playing skills without added difficulty.
MouthpieceThe mouthpiece is a crucial part of the clarinet as it greatly influences the sound and ease of play. Student clarinets usually come with a basic mouthpiece that is designed to be easy to play and produce a good tone. As you progress, you might want to experiment with different mouthpieces to find one that suits your playing style. For beginners, the stock mouthpiece provided with the clarinet is typically adequate.
Reed StrengthReeds come in various strengths, usually ranging from 1 (soft) to 5 (hard). Softer reeds (1.5 to 2.5) are easier to play and produce sound with less effort, making them ideal for beginners. Harder reeds (3 and above) offer more resistance and can produce a richer tone but require more control and embouchure strength. As a student, starting with a softer reed will help you develop your technique and gradually move to harder reeds as you improve.
CaseA good case is essential for protecting your clarinet when not in use. Student clarinets usually come with a hard case that provides adequate protection against bumps and drops. Some cases also have extra compartments for accessories like reeds, cleaning supplies, and sheet music. Ensure the case is sturdy and has a secure closure to keep your instrument safe.
Brand ReputationThe reputation of the brand can be an indicator of the quality and reliability of the clarinet. Established brands with a history of producing quality instruments are generally a safer choice for students. Research reviews and ask for recommendations from teachers or experienced players to find a reputable brand. Choosing a well-regarded brand can give you confidence in the durability and performance of your clarinet.

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