Selmer Présence Bb (18 Keys)

Henri SELMER Paris: A Clarinet Rooted in French Craftsmanship

Designed in France at the Mantes-la-Ville workshops, Henri SELMER Paris clarinets bear the mark of meticulous manufacturing, enriched by musicians' experience and artisans' precision. The Présence has established itself as a benchmark in professional entry-level clarinets for about ten years: an instrument designed to offer a true level of performance and comfort, with a refined sound identity. This new evolution goes further with a rethought bell, widened tenons, and a modernized aesthetic.

For Whom and For What: A Versatile Bb Clarinet Ready for the Stage

The Selmer Présence in Bb is aimed at intermediate to advanced clarinetists, as well as musicians seeking a reliable clarinet for serious practice and frequent playing (wind orchestra, conservatory, chamber music, current projects). Its balance and ease of response also make it suitable for musicians wanting an all-purpose clarinet: classical, pop, ensemble, brass band, contemporary repertoire.

Sound and Design

The body made of grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon), selected for its high density and stabilized over several years, promotes a rich timbre and good projection while retaining the typical warmth of wooden clarinets. The polycylindrical bore (cylindrical part 14.6 mm) aims for a good compromise between intonation, centering, and register homogeneity. The new internal shape of the bell (without a flare) and the 7 mm tenons contribute to a broader resonance and better continuity from low to high registers. In terms of finish, the silver-plated tenons and matte black chrome on the lower body give a modern look, complemented by a 100% natural vegetable varnish and the Delta symbol engraved on the upper body.

The Integrated EVOLUTION System: Stability, Longevity, Peace of Mind

The EVOLUTION system is based on a next-generation resin lining applied to the upper part of the upper body (bore side). The internal diameter is adapted to incorporate the resin, then the bore is hand-reamed to preserve acoustic integrity. The result: a hermetic envelope limits moisture penetration into the wood and reduces the risk of cracks in the most exposed area, while promoting faster warming and better tuning stability during play.

Recommended Compatible Accessories

Delivered with an Echo mouthpiece, a silver-plated ligature, and a mouthpiece cap, the Présence is ready to play immediately. To preserve the wood and pads, regular use of the provided maintenance kit (swab, suitable products) is recommended, as well as systematic storage in the included shoulder case after each session.

Technical specifications

Level	Professional	System	Boehm
Tone	Bb	Color	Black
Body material	Grenadilla

Pitch	440–442 Hz	Thumb rest	adjustable
Bore	polycylindrical (cylindrical section: 14.6 mm)	Bell	new interior shape (without “poquette”) for greater register consistency
EVOLUTION system	resin lining on the upper section of the upper joint (bore side)	Rings	wide 7 mm rings
Finishing	100% natural plant-based varnish	2 barrels included	64.5 mm and 65.5 mm (new shape)
Weight reduction	upper joint, lower joint and bell refined (up to 30 g lighter)	Mouthpiece	Echo
Keywork	silver-plated	Included accessories	silver-plated ligature, mouthpiece cap, maintenance accessory kit, shoulder bag case, matching mouthpiece pouch
Pads	Valentino and Gore-Tex	Engraving	Delta symbol on the upper joint (identifies the new version)