Expert: Kenton Scott - 6/6/2007

Question
I have an old clarinet that i still use! its a lovely black wood with Silvertone etched into the bottom piece and i think also the barrel piece below the mouthpiece. The number on the back is 1831 and it aslo says made in fance (in blocks) can you tell me which company made this and is there anyway i could get a rough date of manufactor? It still plays really well although the cork has shrunk a little when i connect it, so i wrap cotton thread around the cork to keep it in place, but i haven't played it regularly for about 5 years.

Answer
Woodwinds are not my area, so I can't give you anything definitive on your instruments, but Silvertone is one of those annoying brand names that were used by several makers, and sorting them out is somewhat difficult.  HN White, Sears and Wards all used the name.  Since yours is labeled from France, I think that lets White off the hook.