About This Instrument

Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone - Serial #230XXX

This beautiful French-made Selmer Mark VI tenor saxophone is an excellent example of one of the most iconic and sought-after professional saxophones ever produced. Known for its exceptional tonal flexibility, responsive keywork, and distinctive playing characteristics, the Mark VI has remained a benchmark for professional saxophone performance for generations.

The Selmer Mark VI was introduced in 1954 and remained in production until the mid-1970s. During its remarkable production run, the Mark VI earned an extraordinary reputation among professional musicians for its innovative design, comfortable ergonomics, and expressive tonal capabilities. These instruments became favorites of countless legendary saxophonists and continue to be highly prized by musicians around the world. Today, the Mark VI remains one of the most recognizable and respected names in professional saxophone history.

This particular example, serial number 230XXX, is a well-played instrument that has clearly seen many years of musical use. It retains approximately 70% of its original lacquer, with scratches, finish wear, and other cosmetic characteristics consistent with a vintage professional saxophone that has been regularly played. While it may not be a pristine collector's instrument, it offers something arguably more important: exceptional playing characteristics combined with a complete professional overhaul.

The instrument has received a complete professional overhaul at NJ Instrument Repair, including comprehensive mechanical servicing, pad work, regulation, and adjustments. Every aspect of the mechanical setup has been carefully refined to provide excellent sealing, responsive keywork, and consistent performance throughout the instrument.

Playing Characteristics: This is an exceptionally fast-responding and colorful Mark VI tenor with a remarkable sense of control. The instrument speaks immediately and effortlessly, offering a rich tonal palette that responds beautifully to the player's input. When pushed, the sound continues to develop additional color and intensity without becoming unstable or losing focus. There is a strong sense of resonance beneath the fingers that makes this instrument particularly enjoyable to play.

Simply put, this is one of those saxophones that feels right in your hands. Its combination of immediate response, tonal flexibility, and comfortable playing characteristics makes it an instrument that encourages musical expression.

Condition and Repair History: In the interest of full transparency, the neck had previously experienced a pull-down, a relatively common issue with vintage saxophones. This has been professionally corrected, restoring the neck's alignment and geometry. The repair history is disclosed so prospective buyers can make an informed decision. The neck, along with the remainder of the instrument, has been thoroughly documented in the photo gallery below.

For musicians who have always wanted to own a Selmer Mark VI, this tenor represents an opportunity to enter the world of these legendary instruments at a more accessible price point. Rather than paying a premium for pristine cosmetics, the next owner can enjoy the exceptional playing qualities of a vintage Mark VI backed by a comprehensive professional overhaul.

Whether you're a professional saxophonist, an advancing musician, or someone who has long dreamed of owning a Selmer Mark VI, this tenor offers an outstanding combination of history, craftsmanship, and performance. With its exceptional playing characteristics, honest vintage condition, and comprehensive professional overhaul, this instrument is ready to continue making music for many years to come.

This is a player's Mark VI in the best sense of the term: a remarkable instrument meant to be played, enjoyed, and appreciated for the sound it produces rather than simply the condition of its finish.

Questions about this instrument?

If you’d like additional details, more photos, or want to talk through the instrument’s condition, setup, or playing characteristics, feel free to reach out.