I have played clarinet off and on for nearly 6 decades now. I grew up on Bundy and Selmer brands and continue to praise their quality. I taught thousands of students in public school band very successfully for over 13 years--including some groups who achieved national recognition. But I have played very little over the past few decades.

If I had a student come in with a clarinet like this, like most band directors, I would probably have turned up my nose much like many of the reviews I have read regarding this brand. BUT I WOULD HAVE BEEN WRONG to do so!

I pulled out my old clarinet a few weeks ago and tried playing it but, like me, it was pretty worn out and unplayable. But I wanted something I could use to relive some old memories. I saw this low priced instrument and thought, why not. As soon as I put it together and played it some, I realized immediately that, for this price, this instrument is really not too bad at all! In fact, it actually works pretty doggone great!

I would still generally recommend most students start on a better quality instrument, but I certainly would not say stay away from this. I would say, sure, ok, it should be fine for at least a year or two. Then plan on moving up to a better quality instrument. But I would also STRONGLY caution the parent AND student to be very careful with it. Keeping it in good repair for that period might prove more expensive in the long run. As a professional, I would know how to do that--a beginning student is less likely to do the same.

I played clarinet many years, from 6th grade through college, plus a little recreational play in a small local orchestra and a church orchestra. I own a Buffet Festival and a Bundy "thrasher" that used to be used for marching band. My son started fifth grade band, but I did not trust him with my Buffet so he took the Bundy. Then my 8 yo was jealous and also wanted to play. I found this clarinet on sale with a coupon, and said "Why, not? All I need is a toy anyway."

Pros:

1. The sound was not perfect, but better than I expected. I played with my own Vandoren B45. I did not even attempt the cheap mouthpiece that comes with the instrument. Throw the cheap reeds away too.

2. You can't beat the price.

3. It plays all notes, and went together properly. My expectations were not high.

Cons:
1. Don't expect a high quality sound. It's not even made of wood.

2. On a few of the notes the pitch is a little off and a few keys sound as if a little air is escaping from under the pad.

3. The cork between the barrel and upper joint was too big. It still needs to be filed down, otherwise my husband is the only one with the strength to get it on and off.

Overall, if you are like me and looking for a "toy" to familiarize your child with how to hold a clarinet, how to put a clarinet together, understanding basic fingerings, etc, this is a great option. You don't have to worry about your child damaging a nicer instrument. I would not recommend this for any serious play. When my daughter starts fifth grade band, I will probably upgrade her to the Bundy, and my son to the Buffet if both are still wanting to play.

First of all, this item is a glorified toy. It is possible you may get one you might be able to use as a band instrument...if so, consider yourself lucky. It is the same as paying only $100 for a new car. Just what kind of car would you expect? I played Clarinet for 14 years in various types of bands from dance to classical. If you want a serious instrument -- you will need to pay at least several hundred dollars from a reliable dealer. I bought this instrument to play just for fun. The Clarinet I have is a full note off scale -- but (like my dulcimer) it is in-tune with itself. So if I would want to play with someone else I could easily transpose the music. I do not know if this is typical of this model or not.
If you purchase this clarinet you should do the following:
1. Throw the reeds away - they are worse than useless. Get some Rico Reeds. Even if you could use the reeds --- 2 1/2 is too hard for a beginner, anyway. If you want the instrument to sound even better - go get a new barrel and mouthpiece. The only thing the reeds that came with the clarinet can be used for is shims.
2. Check all the keys and pads. Make sure they are secure and work properly. They should seal (and release) the holes and the keys should move smoothly.
3. Lubricate the corks - get an even layer on each cork and do not be stingy.
4. Carefully put the pieces together. Unlike a real instrument, this item is very fragile.You can easily damage the keys or force them out of alignment. You will have a hard time finding a repair shop willing to work on it. It is a throw-away item.
5. Once together - inspect the keys once more. This time concentrate on the keys that operate across the center joint. For example, when you push a lower key does the upper section work properly? Each time you assemble the clarinet - it should be easier to do so.
6. Make sure you clean the instrument well after each use. Store the instrument in the case when not being used. Pick up some sewing machine lubricant. As you use the instrument -- some keys may stick. Use a small drop of this oil on the sticky joint. Also, check the screws periodically to make sure they are secure (there is a screwdriver included).
I would only use this instrument as a home practice instrument or, as I do, an instrument you do not plan to play with others -- The tone is okay. But to compare the tone to a real quality professional instrument is like comparing the speed of a bi-plane to that of a jet plane.
It does have a book with a few songs and a fingering chart. I also got cork grease, and a cleaning rag. There is also a pair of white gloves that are only slightly more useful than the reeds. It does have a very nice case. The Clarinet does have a nice traditional appearance.
I have not had the clarinet long enough to determine how it lasts over the long haul.

I occasionally play my recorder for a few decades now, and I thought that I could use an upgrade. This instrument looked just right. Here are my notes after a few hours of playing it:

1. Assembling the instrument is hard at first. Since you should avoid bending the keys you have little space to hold the parts and apply the needed force. Yes, I have applied the cork grease as instructed. If you are planning to give it to a child, then I think you'll need to do the assembly at least the first few times. This might be the case for all new clarinets, though.
2. The instrument is out of tune. It is flat by a full note even when the barrel is inserted all the way in. I couldn't find a way to tune the instrument up. Do I need a shorter barrel?
3. The reeds in the set are more-or-less consistent: they are all hard to play, but three out of the eleven reeds were particularly hard and I noticed that all of these have eccentric spines. I'll try some Rico or Vandoren reeds (strength 2 or 2n1/2) and see if that helps.
4. I couldn't go to the upper register, yet. It just won't go.
5. The craftsmanship looks to be fine. I tested the pads and they are perfectly sealing the holes under pressure. The keys seem to move flawlessly. The included stand is sturdy and quite useful.

The source of the difficulties I ran into might be my lack of technique. Therefore, I am planning to consult with a clarinet teacher.
Good luck!

Granddaughter loves it!