Review: Selmer Paris Signature Alto Saxophone

Today I am thrilled to share the latest alto saxophone model by Selmer Paris, the brand new Signature. The Selmer Paris Signature alto sax is a spiritual successor to the venerable Super Action 80 Series II (SA80II) model.

Contents
00:00 - Introduction
00:20 - Acknowledgements
01:03 - Selmer Signature introduction
02:02 - Selmer Signature features
05:34 - Why the Selmer Signature exists
06:27 - Testing info, comparison to Series II
07:12 - Signature vs. Series II Play Testing
10:47 - General observations
11:15 - Timbre, resistance, response
12:09 - Intonation introduction
12:33 - Series II Intonation quirks
14:57 - Signature intonation improvements
16:33 - Conclusions
17:59 - Other details

Learn more about the Signature alto: https://www.selmer.fr/en/products/saxophone-alto-signature
Saied Music: https://saiedmusic.com
Conn-Selmer: https://www.connselmer.com

Why is Selmer Paris releasing the Signature model?
Some additional info that is not in the video: the Signature makes a lot of sense from a purely business perspective. In Selmer’s mind, they don’t want to be losing effectively $3k every time someone opts for an older Series II alto over the Supreme due to being priced out or preferring the older traditional model. So, the Signature is made fit for purpose and threads the needle pretty perfectly. You can be frustrated by this, but remember two things:

• Selmer Paris was acquired by a private equity firm in 2018. This allowed an influx of cash to invest in manufacturing, research, marketing, and people. Now, they must increase profits to pay for that investment.

• Measures like this are necessary for the company to continue selling saxophones made in France. I have been told many times over the years that Selmer saxes are incredibly low-margin products; the lions share of Selmer’s profits is apparently in mouthpiece sales.

I hope this helps to better contextualize the Supreme’s place in Selmer’s lineup and why it was a necessary addition!

New Job! Joining the faculty of Oklahoma City University's Wanda L. Bass School of Music

I am thrilled to announce that I have recently accepted the position of Saxophone Instructor & Recruitment Coordinator at Oklahoma City University's Wanda L. Bass School of Music. Starting in August 2023, I cannot wait to share my passion for the saxophone with the talented students and help shape their musical journey. Alongside teaching, I am eager to take on recruitment responsibilities, seeking out extraordinary musicians who will contribute to the vibrant music community at the School of Music. It is an honor to join at such a distinguished music school, and I look forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of aspiring musicians while continuing to grow and thrive in this exciting environment.

Learn more the Bass School of Music ››

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Album Release: ALCHEMY

After two years of fundraising, rehearsing, recording, editing, negotiation, and anticipation, I am pleased to share that my debut album, ALCHEMY, is now available! Performed in collaboration with pianist and composer Benjamin Nylander, ALCHEMY presents a curated selection of new music by established and emerging composers alike. This is a significant release for 2022 showcasing world premiere recordings of the best new music for saxophone and piano performed by Duo Aurous.

Tracks include:

1. John Anthony Lennon: Distances Within Me (1979)

2. Marilyn Shrude: Lacrimosa (2006, premiere recording)

3. Mischa Zupko: Simple Song (2019, premiere recording)

4. Benjamin Nylander: Body of Water (2022, world premiere and premiere recording)

5. Viet Cuong: Sanctuary (2020, premiere recording)

Digital downloads are available TODAY through Clarinet & Saxophone Classic Recordings, CDs ship in 1-2 weeks, and streaming closer to November.

Some crucial acknowledgments:

• Thanks to my wife Kenzie Heaney for her unending emotional support, partnership, and audience throughout the realization of this project.

• Thanks to John Sampen, Marilyn Shrude, and Michael Laurello for their continuing advice and keen artistic guidance throughout planning, recording, and production.

• Thanks to Dean Bill Mathis and Bowling Green State University for providing the use of Bryan Recital Hall.

• This recording was funded in part by the MidAmerican Center for Contemporary Music at the College of Musical Arts of Bowling Green State University and the BGSU College of Musical Arts Student Professional Development Fund.

• Recording Engineering and Editing: Robbie Dunham.

• Mastering: Willowhayne Records

• Artwork: Hannah Jacoby-Brooks

Click the link and give ALCHEMY a listen, TODAY!