Clarinets in B flat and A, Symphony 1010 model, matched pair with consecutive serial numbers. African blackwood, silver plated keys, Boehm system. With mouthpiece, ligature and cap. Serial number 31213 stamped on all joints of B flat clarinet; serial number 31214 stamped on all joints of A clarinet. With original fitted double case, wood with black leather covering and crimson velvet lining and separate leather belt closure.
A-natural clarinet Serial Nnumber 31213; B-flat SN 31214. Both described in the ledger as LP [low pitch]; b/wd [blackwood]. A-natural made by 'Hubbard'; B-flat by 'Lewis'.
Purchased from Wilfred and Hale Hambleton on 24 Oct. 2006 for £1200.00. See blue history file AEROPHONES: REEDS 4/5.
The Symphony 1010 model clarinet, as championed by Jack Brymer and Gervase De Peyer, achieved iconic status among professional orchestral players in London during the mid 20th century. It was the most successful clarinet design produced by Boosey & Hawkes. The wide bore of the 1010 helped to produce a full, rich tone, which was characteristic of the British clarinet sound during what was arguably its most distinctive period. This pair was originally owned by Richard Temple Savage of the Royal Opera House orchestra, Covent Garden and subsequently by Wilfred Hambleton of the Philharmomia Orchestra and his son Hale Hambleton, principal clarinettist of the English National Opera.
