Selmer (Paris) Flamingo Collector Series Saxophones Now Available in the Americas

The Henri Selmer company of Paris has introduced the third issue of its limited edition Bird Series of professional saxophones. This special 2007 issue features exquisite engraving that highlights the Flamingo of Africa.

This latest release is the third in a five-year adventure honoring each of the continents by depicting a native bird in highly detailed hand crafted engraving on its new Reference Series saxophones. Last year's edition featured the Kookaburra bird of Australia. Previously the Hummingbird of the North American continent was honored.

The latest Selmer Paris "bird" alto saxophone models are based on the popular Reference 54 Series saxophones, capturing the essence of the famous Mark VI instruments made in the 1950s and 1960s. The tenor is based on the Reference 36 Series, in the tradition of the "Balanced Action" manufactured beginning in 1936. There will be three versions of the 2007 Flamingo saxophones.

Model 72FLLTD

Only 30 of this collector's limited edition alto saxophone will be released for North, Central and South Americas. In the traditional style, this model will feature no high F# key, extensive hand engraving on the bell, bow, body and neck, along with a special edition case. Suggested list is US$8500.

Model 84FLLTD

Selmer Paris will offer this collector's limited edition tenor saxophone on the Reference 36 platform. Only 40 of this model will be released for the Americas. Like the limited edition alto, the tenor will feature no high F# key, extensive hand engraving on the bell, bow, body and neck, along with a special edition case. Suggested list is US$10,000.

Model 72FLSTD

Selmer Paris will produce 110 of the standard edition flamingo alto saxophones for the Americas. The standard flamingo will also feature no high F# key, deluxe hand engraving on the bell, along with a unique case. Suggested list is US$6,545, the same list as the standard model 72.

"Due to the limited number of each model available, we held off on our American debut until just before the first scheduled shipment arrives," said Craig Denny, director of marketing for saxophones. "Several dealers are already placing stocking orders for the first available models and consumers should contact their favorite dealer about availability as soon as possible."