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Upgrading Your Clarinet: Selmer Prologue & Presence

30th August 2025

When it comes to upgrading from a student clarinet, or even choosing your very first wooden instrument, two names in the Selmer range stand out: the Prologue and the Presence. Both are beautifully designed wooden clarinets with features that make them ideal stepping stones at different stages of your musical journey.

We spoke with Selmer clarinet product manager Stéphane Gentil, Dawkes’ head technician Abi Taylor, and professional player Hannah Shilvock to find out what makes these models so special.

The Prologue: A New Generation of Entry-Level Clarinets

The Selmer Prologue is the perfect step up from a plastic clarinet. It is also an excellent first wooden clarinet for both young and adult beginners. The wooden body immediately improves sound and intonation, giving a warmer tone and more reliable tuning.

Selmer has also re-designed the Prologue to make it lighter and more comfortable. The body is slimmer and 30g lighter, which makes a real difference for younger players or anyone who struggles with weight. The thumb rest is another standout feature. Unlike most clarinets, it can be adjusted not only up and down but also side to side, helping players avoid fatigue and promote a better hand position.

There are other thoughtful design touches too. The wider D/G hole improves projection, but for smaller hands Selmer includes a unique plug that makes the stretch easier. The register key has an ergonomic shape commonly seen on more pro models, there is a sling ring for added comfort, and the Valentino pads offer durability. The clarinet is available in two versions, one with an Eb lever and one without, giving flexibility for different needs.

Hannah Shilvock highlights how easy the Prologue feels to play, it’s incredibly balanced across the whole range. The sleek look and improved intonation make it a fantastic motivator for new players.

The Prologue is also fun to personalise. Players can swap out the bell rings for different colours, which is a small but motivating detail. Some even match them to their outfit for concerts. This promotes Selmer’s desire to empower musicians to feel good and express themselves when they perform.

In summary, the Prologue offers:

  • Easy playability with balanced sound across the range.
  • A lighter, slimmer body for comfort.
  • A customisable thumb rest and colourful bell rings.

The Presence: Stepping into Professional Sound

For those ready to go further, the Selmer Presence is the next step. It is Selmer’s most popular professional clarinet and the ideal choice for advancing students or serious entry players who want to explore a wider range of sound.

The redesigned barrel keeps the same amount of wood but in a more refined shape. This gives the Presence its distinctive resonance and ring. Although the instrument is heavier than the Prologue, Selmer has lightened the joints and bell for improved comfort.

Image of Selmer Presence Clarinet close up of lower joint with a side view of Eb lever and thumb rest
Image of Selmer Presence Clarinet close up of barrel and upper joint, engraving of 'Presence' name and iconic 'S' logo
Image of Selmer Presence Clarinet close up of lower joint and Eb lever

The pads combine Valentino, cork, and Goretex, which makes the action precise and reliable. Raised tone holes on G#/ C# improve ergonomics and accuracy. The Presence also comes with Selmer’s Evolution system, which protects the clarinet from cracks caused by moisture and temperature changes. Instruments with this feature carry a small star engraving to confirm it.

The Presence, like the Prologue, is also available with options with or without an Eb lever on Bb models – the Eb lever is standard on the A clarinet.

Hannah explains how the Presence offers more potential, giving players extra colour and variety in their sound. It does demand more effort, which can be a challenge for new players. However, the more you put into this instrument, the more it will give back. With commitment, the Presence can take you much further in your musical journey.

“Instead of just shades of blue, you can achieve the full spectrum of colours.”

In summary, the Presence offers:

  • Richer resonance with a refined barrel design.
  • Professional pad setup and raised tone holes.
  • Selmer’s Evolution system for added durability.

Which Clarinet is Right for You?

The Prologue is ideal if you are moving up from a plastic clarinet, want something light and motivating, or are looking for your very first wooden clarinet. The Presence is the right choice if you are ready to put in more work for greater rewards, want a clarinet that offers a full spectrum of sound, and need professional reliability.