If you are a musician or a music enthusiast, you might have heard of the Selmer brand. Selmer is a renowned manufacturer of musical instruments, particularly saxophones and clarinets. However, there seems to be some confusion between Selmer and Selmer Paris.
Are they the same brand? What is the difference between them? In this article, we will explore the distinction between Selmer and Selmer Paris.
Selmer
Selmer is a family-owned company that was founded in 1885 by Henri Selmer. The company is based in France and has been producing high-quality musical instruments for over a century. Selmer’s product line includes saxophones, clarinets, trumpets, flutes, and other brass and woodwind instruments.
Selmer has established itself as one of the most respected brands in the music industry due to its commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Many professional musicians around the world choose Selmer instruments for their excellent sound quality and durability.
Selmer Paris
Selmer Paris is often used interchangeably with Selmer, but it is actually a different entity. Henri Selmer started his business in France before passing it on to his son, who continued to expand the company’s reach globally.
In 1922, Henri’s brother Alexandre moved to America where he established a new branch of the company called “Selmer Inc.” This branch was responsible for distributing Henri’s saxophones in the United States market. Eventually, Alexandre sold his share of “Selmer Inc” back to his brother’s company in France.
After World War II, Henri passed away leaving his son Jean-Jacques in charge of the business. In 1948 Jean-Jacques founded “Selmer Industries” which would later become “Selmer Paris”.
Selmer Paris is a company that specializes in high-end saxophones and clarinets. The company has gained a reputation for producing some of the best professional-level saxophones and clarinets on the market. Selmer Paris instruments are known for their rich tone, precise intonation, and excellent playability.
The Difference Between Selmer and Selmer Paris
The main difference between Selmer and Selmer Paris is that the former is the parent company while the latter is its high-end subsidiary. While both companies produce musical instruments, Selmer Paris specializes in high-end saxophones and clarinets while Selmer produces a wider range of brass and woodwind instruments.
Another difference between the two companies is their Target audience. Selmer’s products are designed for musicians of all levels, from beginners to professionals. In contrast, Selmer Paris instruments are geared towards professional musicians who demand only the highest quality sound.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both companies share a name, they are different entities with different focuses. Selmer produces an array of brass and woodwind instruments while its subsidiary Selmer Paris specializes in high-end saxophones and clarinets aimed at professional musicians. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional musician, there’s a good chance that you can find a musical instrument from either company that meets your needs.