They say to never bring your home work with you, but no one ever said anything , we had the pleasure of sitting down with Florent Milhaud, the saxophone product manager for Henri SELMER Paris. In this insightful interview, Florent shares his journey from being a passionate saxophone player to leading the product management team at one of the most prestigious saxophone manufacturers in the world. With over 15 years of experience, Florent gives us a glimpse into the meticulous process of research and development at the historical SELMER factory in Montville, near Paris.

From Player to Product Manager

Florent Milhaud’s journey began as a saxophone player, where his love for the instrument eventually led him to his current role. He speaks about the immense privilege and responsibility he feels in managing the saxophone product line at Henri Selmer Paris, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in the world of wind instruments.

Innovation at SELMER’s Historical Factory

The SELMER factory in Mantes-la-Ville, located about 50 kilometers from Paris, has been the birthplace of SELMER saxophones since the 1920s. Florent explains the importance of this historical site, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. The factory is home to a dedicated research and development team that has worked tirelessly on the latest generation of saxophones, including the “Supreme” alto and tenor models, as well as the newly released “Signature” Models.

These new models, launched in 2021 and 2023 respectively, represent the pinnacle of saxophone design and craftsmanship. Florent and his team are proud of these instruments, which they believe will set the standard for the next 30 years.

Embracing the Secondhand Market

Florent also highlights SELMER’s initiatives in the secondhand market. Recognizing the value and demand for vintage SELMER instruments, the company has started “REWIND”, a project to restore and resell these historical pieces. From clarinets to trumpets, and even guitars, SELMER’s secondhand program ensures that their legacy instruments continue to be cherished and played by new generations of musicians.

An Invitation to Visit SELMER in Paris

For those visiting Paris, Florent extends a warm invitation to the SELMER showroom located in the picturesque Montmartre district. This showroom is a testament to the brand’s rich heritage and commitment to excellence. Visitors can explore the latest models and see firsthand the craftsmanship that goes into each SELMER instrument.

Florent Milhaud’s dedication to advancing the art of saxophone making is truly inspiring. His insights into the development process, the importance of preserving historical instruments, and the future of SELMER saxophones offer a fascinating look into the world of high-quality musical instrument manufacturing.

If you’re ever in Paris, don’t miss the chance to visit the SELMER showroom. For more information, visit their website and plan your visit. Stay tuned to our blog for more interviews and updates from the world of music!