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Yamaha Corporation YCL-221 Bass Clarinet
Durable design. Warm, centered tone. Built for developing low-reed players.
The Yamaha YCL-221 Bass Clarinet is one of the most trusted student bass clarinets in school band programs nationwide. Designed for durability, consistent intonation, and comfortable playability, this model gives developing musicians a strong foundation in bass clarinet technique while withstanding the demands of daily classroom use.
With a lightweight ABS resin body and precision Yamaha keywork, the YCL-221 delivers dependable response and a warm, focused tone—making it an excellent first bass clarinet for middle and high school students.
Educational & Performance Advantages
Encourages Confident Tone Production
The carefully engineered bore design produces a centered, resonant sound that helps students develop proper breath support and embouchure control in the lower register.
Built for the School Environment
The ABS resin body resists cracking due to temperature and humidity changes—ideal for marching transitions, travel, and varying rehearsal conditions.
Comfortable Ergonomics for Growing Players
An adjustable floor peg and balanced key placement promote healthy posture and hand position, supporting long rehearsals and proper technique development.
Reliable Intonation Across Registers
Precision tone hole placement and Yamaha’s consistent manufacturing standards help students maintain stable pitch from low E to upper clarion register.
Key Features
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Key of Bb
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Durable ABS resin body (lightweight and crack-resistant)
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Nickel-plated keywork
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17 keys, 6 rings (Boehm system)
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Low Eb range
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Adjustable floor peg for stability
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Adjustable thumb rest
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Blue steel springs for responsive action
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Two-piece neck design for improved tuning flexibility
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Includes molded case for secure transport
Specifications
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Key: Bb
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Level: Student
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Body Material: ABS Resin
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Key System: Boehm
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Keys: 17
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Rings: 6
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Lowest Note: Low Eb
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Key Material: Nickel-plated nickel silver
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Neck: Two-piece design
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Floor Peg: Adjustable
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Finish: Nickel-plated keys
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Included Accessories: Case, mouthpiece, ligature, cap
Tone & Performance Profile
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Warm, full-bodied low register
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Clear and stable clarion register
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Balanced resistance for developing air support
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Consistent articulation response
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Reliable projection for concert band settings
Ideal For
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First-time bass clarinet students
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Middle school and high school band programs
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Doubling clarinetists transitioning to low reed
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School inventory instruments requiring durability
Educator’s Choice
The Yamaha YCL-221 Bass Clarinet remains a standard in music education because it combines durability, dependable mechanics, and stable intonation in a student-friendly design. Its resilient construction minimizes maintenance concerns, while its consistent response supports proper low-reed technique from the start. For directors seeking a reliable bass clarinet that promotes long-term success, the YCL-221 is a proven and practical investment.