I've been playing on the same clarinet for 5 years now. My director is suggesting that I get an upgrade. He suggested Buffet R13 and Normandy, but says get something better than what I have now (an ancient Vito V40). Any suggestions and things to stay away from are greatly appriciated! Thanks

I have to say, almost anything would be an improvement over that. (I say almost because I am aware that Walmart and the like sell Clarinet Shaped Objects). A Buffet R13 is a very fine instrument. If you don't want to spend quite as much, you could also get a Yamaha YCL650. These are both pro model instruments. If you don't want to go for a pro model instrument just yet, both of these companies also produce very fine student and intermediate instruments. You might also consider Leblanc. They're not very popular, but some people like them. For example Larry Combs, the principal clarinetist in the Chicago Symphony, plays Leblanc clarinets. I hope this helps.