These Bird Series would feature a custom hand-done engraving that featured a bird from the corresponding continent. Once a year they would feature a new continent and release a new style of Reference 54 that is specific to that continent. It plays, feels, and looks like a vintage Selmer, including longer bell to improve intonation and a matte finish. In 2005 Selmer started releasing the Tribute to Bird series of saxophones. It plays, feels, and looks like a vintage Selmer, including longer bell to improve intonation and a dark lacquer finish.
The Reference 54 tenor takes its inspiration from a 1958 mid-70,000 serial number Mark VI. The Reference 54 alto takes its inspiration from a 1958 mid-70,000 serial number Mark VI. Join the legions of jazz saxophonists that have rediscovered the sound of the legendary Mark VI and have made the Selmer 74 Reference 54 tenor saxophone their horn of choice. The design of the Selmer Reference 54 Collector Edition Dragonbird Alto Saxophone offers triggers of black mother of pearl from Tahiti and a unique, major art engraving on the bell and neck. Join the ranks of tenor players worldwide who have rediscovered the iconic sound of the Mark VI and have made the Selmer Paris 74 Reference 54 their instrument of choice. The key material is made from decent brass, not the cheap, soft plastic feeling stuff found on the cheaper horns. The Reference 54 comes complete with a Selmer Paris S-80 C mouthpiece, cap, and ligature, as well as a shaped flight case. On the body it has a correctly positioned serial number surmounted by the 'R' script etching. Complete with shaped flight case, Selmer Paris C* mouthpiece, cap and ligature, and care products. The Selmer Reference 54 Collector Edition Dragonbird Alto Saxophone takes a poetic view of the culture of Asia. There is a pretty, but simple floral engraving on the bell & fairly accurate Selmer Paris and Reference 54 etchings. The keywork of the Reference 54 tenor saxophone is extremely fluid and reacts well to even the most wicked licks. A major favorite among jazz saxophonists, the Reference 54 tenor saxophone offers a rich throaty sound that even "barks" well in the lower register.
Inspired by the Mark VI model released in 1954, the Selmer Paris 74 Reference 54 tenor is a professional saxophone that integrates the Mark VI's legendary acoustic characteristics with innovative modern key work and better intonation.