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Re: Will Leblanc make a comeback?

Author: JulianBliss
Date: 2017-12-23 03:44

Hi all

In short answer to the OP’s question. Yes we will, Worldwide!

I thought it was about time i signed up. I saw this topic and decided it would be a good one to answer. Many people have lots of questions about Leblanc, so i’ll do my best to answer them and also possibly disband a few myths about Leblanc too!

As many of you know, The US company Conn-Selmer bought Leblanc in 2004. At this time Leblanc still had manufacturing plants in France and also in Kenosha WI. Eventually the French plant was shut, the building sold and everything was moved to the USA. Leblanc is now solely based in Elkhart Indiana where the Conn-Selmer headquarters are located. All Leblanc manufacturing takes place at our south plant in Elkhart. This is something we are very proud of. We are lucky to have a fantastic team of hard working and dedicated people with a wealth of experience.

This may be a good point to mention that Selmer (Paris) do NOT own Leblanc. Selmer Paris are a completely independent company and operate as such. The only common ground and where some confusion exists is that Conn-Selmer distribute Selmer in the USA. This has been the case for many years. We have a fantastic relationship with Selmer Paris and enjoy distributing their range.

For a number of years we made the Leblanc Bliss. Last year, collectively the decision was made to replace the Bliss with an all new model of Leblanc which is the Serenade. The Serenade was launched this year and so far has been received very well. The Serenade is a nice blend of some much loved old Leblanc instruments, cutting edge technology and new ideas. The Serenade is the first step in what could be called a sort of regeneration of the Leblanc brand. We make no secret that we are working very hard on a couple of new things which hopefully will be available in the near future. When theres something new, you can guarantee we’ll make some noise about it!

For the avoidance of doubt there is currently no Clarinet in production that carries my last name, nor are there any plans for future instruments to carry the Bliss name.

I have had the pleasure of working with Leblanc and Conn-Selmer for the last 11 years not only as an artist but also in product development. A few months ago i was hired for an additional role of Market Development Manager. This is of course for Leblanc but also includes Selmer Paris in the USA only.

Collectively our goal is to build Leblanc over the coming years and to have a complete line of instruments once again. Leblanc is a manufacturer with a history dating back to 1750 and a manufacturer that has created some fantastic instruments (In my opinion of course!). As well as continuing to play as many concerts as i possibly can, It is my personal goal to do whatever within my power to help Conn-Selmer build and develop the Leblanc brand for many years to come.

I hope this answers some questions.

Thanks and hope you all have a great holiday season.

Julian

Post Edited (2017-12-23 03:47)

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Zacharywest158

2017-12-21 23:34