Hubbry Logo
Buffet CramponBuffet CramponMain
Open search
Buffet Crampon
Community hub
Buffet Crampon
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Buffet Crampon
Buffet Crampon
Buffet Crampon
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Basset clarinet, oboe d'amore, piccolo trumpet

Key Information

Euphonium
Baritone saxophone

Buffet Crampon SAS is a French manufacturer of wind instruments based in Mantes-la-Ville, in the Yvelines department. The company is the world market leader in the production of Boehm system clarinets. Its subsidiary, Buffet Crampon Deutschland GmbH, founded in 2010 and based in Markneukirchen, Vogtland, Sachsen, is the world market leader in the manufacture of brass instruments. To manufacture and sell its products, the BC Group employed approximately 1,000 people worldwide at the beginning of 2021, 470 of whom were employed by BC Germany alone.[1] The management of the group has been led by Jérôme Perrod since 2014.[2][3]

Products and brands

[edit]

The following brands / labels, with the exception of the Buffet Crampon brand, were formerly independent companies whose essential assets, including the name and trademark rights, are owned by other companies and ultimately were acquired partly by Buffet Crampon SAS partly by BC Deutschland GmbH, and which were then dissolved as companies.

The Buffet Crampon SAS has six brands under which it manufactures the following instruments.[4]

BC Deutschland also manufactures instruments under the following six brands:[5]

Production and sales

[edit]

The BC group of companies has six production sites in which they manufacture the following instruments.[6]

  • in Mantes-la-Ville: professional clarinets, oboes, French bassoons
  • in Markneukirchen: all brass instruments of the Buffet Crampon Group are manufactured, except Besson student instruments and the high-end Melton Meinl Weston models. Student clarinets under the Buffet Crampon brand and all instruments of the W. Schreiber and J. Keilwerth brands are also made here
  • in Geretsried: near Munich: the instruments of the brand Melton Meinl Weston, (R&D center for all brass instruments of the group)
  • in Beijing: brass instruments for beginners
  • in Shanghai: woodwind instruments for beginners
  • in Maynard: Massachusetts: VQPowell flutes

BC has sales companies in the United States, Canada, Japan and the Netherlands. It also has six showrooms: in Paris, Geretsried near Munich, Amsterdam, Jacksonville, Tokyo and Beijing.[6]

History

[edit]
Logo from 1844

Denis Buffet-Auger, of the Buffet family of French musical instrument makers, began making quality clarinets in Paris, France in 1825. The company expanded under Jean-Louis Buffet and his wife Zoé Crampon and became known as BUFFET Crampon & Cie a Paris (BC). (Another family member, Auguste Buffet jeune, who worked with famous clarinetist Hyacinthe Klosé to develop the Boehm system for clarinet, had his own business separate from BC.)

In 1850, BC established its headquarters at Mantes-la-Ville. The company continued to expand its range and quality in instrument production, beginning saxophone production in 1866, and winning numerous awards.

In 1877 BC acquired the Evette & Schaeffer Company and began to use that name as their instrument brand. In 1887 BC obtained a patent for a mechanism to control an extra key on an extended saxophone bell, extending the lower range from B to B♭. In 1908 BC began exporting instruments to the US. In 1910 BC introduced the Apogee, a premium model saxophone, which had innovative keywork features that were later adapted by other manufacturers. In 1918 BC began marketing their premium line instruments under their own name, while marketing lower grade instruments variously under the Evette & Schaeffer and Evette brands. During the 1930s BC began outsourcing Evette & Schaeffer instruments to other manufacturers.[7]

2005: Logo of the new company Buffet Group Wind Instruments S.A.S.

In 1950, BC developed its famous R13 clarinet, an extremely popular professional-level clarinet. The company also began production of the Dynaction model saxophones that year. These evolved into the Super Dynaction (1957) and the highly regarded S series (1973) models.[7] Buffet also became the leading distributor of student-grade instruments in Europe, marketing French and Italian made saxophones under their Evette & Schaeffer brand. During the late 1970s and 1980s, the company's position in the student saxophone market collapsed in the face of competition from Yamaha, who offered higher quality and more up-to-date instruments, and lower cost East German, Czech, and Asian manufacturers. Their collapse in the student market accompanied a deteriorating position in the market for professional saxophones. Buffet left the saxophone market in the mid-1980s. In 2006 Buffet re-entered the saxophone market with their 400 model,[8][9] sourced from China.(source?)

In 1981, BC joined Boosey & Hawkes, which sold the French company to The Music Group in 2003. Two years later BC was bought by a French group and was given the company name BUFFET Group Wind Instruments SAS, but continues to sell its products under the Buffet Crampon brand.

In 2006 Buffet Group acquired two brass instrument manufacturers, Antoine Courtois Paris and Besson. In 2008 Buffet Group acquired the Leblanc clarinet factory in La Couture-Boussey, Département of Eure, Haute-Normandie in France.

Evette and Evette & Schaeffer clarinets

[edit]

Until the 1980s, only professional level clarinets carried the BC name. Lower priced clarinets for the beginner and intermediate market were branded "Evette" and "Evette & Schaeffer", respectively. For a time, the Evette clarinets actually were built by other manufacturers under BC's sponsorship, and these instruments are marked "Evette sponsored by Buffet". By the early 1970s, Buffet was making the Evettes in their own factory in Paris, and around 1979, manufacture was moved to a Buffet-owned factory in Germany. Evette & Schaeffer clarinets were made in Paris. Use of the Evette and Evette & Schaeffer brands ended around 1985, when the company began using the Buffet name on all its clarinets.

2010 to the beginning of 2021

[edit]

In 2010, the newly founded Buffet Crampon Deutschland GmbH, based in Markneukirchen, acquired the production facility there, along with the W. Schreiber and Julius Keilwerth brands, from the insolvent company Schreiber & Keilwerth GmbH. Prior to the acquisition, the insolvency administrator had reduced the workforce in Markneukirchen from 252 to 134 employees over the preceding months.[10] The company manufactured clarinets of German systems and bassoons under the brand name W. Schreiber and saxophones under the brand name J. Keilwerth. In 2012, BC Germany also takes over B&S GmbH, which also produces in Markneukirchen, the leading European manufacturer of brass instruments with 250 employees and the brands B&S, Hans Hoyer, Melton, Meinl, Weston and J. Scherzer and integrates them into the company,[11] whose workforce will grow to more than 400 employees (470 at the beginning of 2021).[12] With these two most important acquisitions in the company's history, the Buffet Group can almost double its sales and has since taken a leading position not only in the field of woodwind instruments, but also brass instruments.[13]

Panorama of the Markneukirchen woodwind instrument factory (formerly Schreiber & Keilwerth)

In 2012, Fondations Capital France SAS becomes shareholder in Buffet Group SAS. Fondations Capital is a subsidiary of Trail, a European private-equity company with registered office in Paris.

In 2014, Jérôme Perrod was appointed as the new CEO of the Buffet Group.

2016: Logo of the renamed company Buffet Crampon S.A.S.

2015 Buffet Group founds a subsidiary in China, the Buffet Crampon Manufacturing Musical Instruments Co. LTD, which is building a production facility for 160 employees in Beijing, where 4,000 brass instruments for students have been manufactured annually from 2016 onwards.[14]

With the beginning of 2016 the Buffet Group Wind Instruments SAS was renamed Buffet Crampon SAS (BC).

In January 2019, BC acquired the French oboe manufacturer Rigoutat, Paris.

After the takeover of Powell Flutes in 2016, Parmenon was acquired in June 2019, whose know-how and reputation strengthen the group's competence in the flute market.

2020 BC opens a showroom in Beijing and builds a new factory (BCMMI) for 130 employees near Shanghai, with an annual capacity of 50,000 instruments.

BC is a partner of Woodstock's brass band.[15]

Clarinet models

[edit]

The company is most famous for their clarinets, as Buffet is the brand of choice for many professionals.[16]

Buffet Crampon has released several clarinet models from the mid-20th century onwards, with models ranging from student to professional in marketing. The development of new models has sometimes led to the discontinuation of older models. The student models tend to be made from ABS resin, whereas intermediate and professional models are usually made from grenadilla wood. The professional models are usually made from more select grenadilla wood, and are usually unstained. Various options have been made available for select professional models, including the Greenline option, additional keywork, and gold-plated keys.

BC makes more than 400 models of its instruments. Because of the special importance as a manufacturer of clarinets with French system, the current models are listed below.

The following models are currently available (as of the end of 2021)

3 clarinets in the high to the beginning of the middle register: E♭ clarinet, B♭ clarinet and basset clarinet
5 clarinets in the middle and low registers: alto clarinet, basset horn, short and long bass clarinet, contralto clarinet
No matching standards in the two pictures (The basset clarinet is slightly smaller than the alto clarinet.)
Model high
A♭/G/E♭ 		C / D B♭ A G Basset clar.
in A/B♭/G 		Basset horn
in F 		Alto in E♭ Bass to deep E♭ / D
in B♭ 		Bass to deep C
in B♭ 		Contra alto in E♭
double bass in B♭
E 12F x
Conservatoire x
Prodige x
E 13 x
Legende x x
Legende from boxwood x x
Gala x x
Tradition x x
Divine x x
Festival x x
Vintage x x
R13 Prestige x x
RC
E♭
 x x
R 13
E♭
 x x
E 11
E♭
C
 x x
BCXXI x x
Tosca
E♭
 x x Mod.1185 (prof.)
1180 (student) 		Mod.1195 (prof.)
RC Prestige
E♭
 C+D x x
A
x
x
 Mod. 1193 (prof.) Contra alto

Remarks

Student Models

[edit]
Model Body Notes
Premium ABS resin Succeeded by previous B10 model
Prodige ABS resin Succeeded by previous B12 model
1180 Grenadilla Student model bass cl.

Intermediate

[edit]
Model Notes
E11 Made in China / Germany; more commonly sold in the United States
E12F Made in France / Germany; introduced September 2012
E13 Made in France

Professional

[edit]
Barrel in boxwood
Model Greenline option? Notes
Conservatoire No Semi-professional model, also known as the C12 model
R13 Yes Most popular professional model, named after its designer, Robert Carrée
RC Yes Evolved from the R13 model with distinctive barrel and bell shape; developed in 1974 with the assistance of the luthier Robert Carrée, for whom the model is named[17]
Vintage No Replaced the S1; closer to the original 1950s R13 bore design
Festival Yes Has R13 bore with denser wood; register key is 1 mm higher than on a standard R13; has additional alternate left-hand E♭/A♭ lever
R13 Prestige No Made from highest quality unstained grenadilla wood; has additional alternate left-hand E♭/A♭ lever
RC Prestige Yes Smaller bore than R13 model; more popular in Europe; has additional alternate left-hand E♭/A♭ lever
Tosca Yes Introduced in 2003; has unique bore design and reshaped keywork; has auxiliary E♭ key and low F correction key
Divine No Introduced in March 2012 as Buffet's top-of-the-line model
Legende No Introduced in July 2017 as Buffet's top-of-the-line model
Tradition No New cylindrical bore design, which goes back to the earlier BC20 model. New design and improved equipment from April 2019
Gala No Introduced 2020, cylindrical bore design as the Tradition
BCXXI No Introduced in late 2021, cylindrical bore, range extended to low E♭

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Buffet Crampon

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Buffet Crampon is a French manufacturer of woodwind instruments, best known for its s, founded in 1825 in by instrument maker Denis Buffet-Auger. The company has earned a global reputation for precision craftsmanship and innovation in acoustic design, becoming the world leader in clarinets with an estimated 85% share of the professional market. Headquartered in Mantes-la-Ville since , Buffet Crampon produces a range of instruments including saxophones, oboes, bassoons, and English horns, emphasizing traditional French techniques alongside modern materials like eco-friendly Green Line composites. The company's origins trace back to Denis Buffet-Auger's workshop at 18 Passage du Grand Cerf, where he specialized in high-quality 13-key that quickly gained acclaim among musicians. In , his son Jean-Louis Buffet married Zoé Crampon, forming the enduring brand name Buffet Crampon and expanding production to include innovative key systems. A pivotal advancement came in 1844 when Jean-Louis patented a 17-key , followed by the adoption and refinement of the Boehm fingering system in 1850, which revolutionized playability and established the company's dominance in orchestral and professional settings. By the late , Buffet Crampon had diversified into saxophones—producing its first models in —and earned international recognition, including awards at the 1878 Exposition Universelle and the 1889 Universal Exposition. Throughout the , Buffet Crampon introduced iconic models that defined the clarinet's evolution, such as the R13 in 1951, celebrated for its rich tone and reliability, and the RC in 1975, designed by acoustician Robert Carrée for enhanced projection. The company expanded through partnerships and acquisitions, including with Evette & Schaeffer around for student lines and a merger with in 1981. In 2005, it formed the independent Buffet Crampon Group, acquiring prestigious brands like Antoine Courtois Paris (brass instruments) in 2006 and oboe maker Rigoutat in 2019, broadening its portfolio to over 12 labels. As of 2023, employing approximately 900 people across facilities in , , and , the group maintains a commitment to and while celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2025.

Company Overview

Founding and Headquarters

Buffet Crampon was established in 1825 by the French instrument maker Denis Buffet Auger (1783–1841) in , initially as a workshop specializing in high-quality 13-key clarinets at 18 Passage du Grand Cerf in the heart of the city. This modest facility quickly gained recognition for its craftsmanship, marking the beginnings of what would become a leading woodwind manufacturer. In the 1830s, under the leadership of Denis's son, Jean-Louis Buffet, the workshop continued and expanded its focus on production, crafting high-quality 13-key models that earned acclaim in the musical community. This shift solidified the company's early reputation for innovation in woodwind instruments. In 1836, Jean-Louis married Zoé Crampon, prompting the adoption of the combined name Buffet-Crampon for the firm. A key milestone followed in 1844 with the creation of the company's enduring , which first appeared on its instruments and symbolized its growing identity. During this period, Buffet-Crampon advanced clarinet design significantly through collaboration between Louis-Auguste Buffet (jeune), another family member, and the virtuoso clarinetist Hyacinthe Klosé, resulting in the development of the Boehm system clarinet between 1839 and 1844. This innovative keywork system, inspired by Theobald Boehm's flute mechanism, improved playability and intonation, setting a standard for modern clarinets. The company's current headquarters and primary manufacturing site remain in Mantes-la-Ville, Yvelines, France, where operations were established in 1850 to accommodate expanding production needs. Starting with just three workers, the facility has undergone numerous expansions over the decades while preserving traditional craftsmanship techniques.

Current Ownership and Global Reach

In 1885, Paul Evette and Ernest Schaeffer acquired the company from its previous owner, marking a pivotal shift that integrated advanced techniques for woodwind instruments. This partnership evolved into family-controlled operations, which persisted through much of the until 1970, when American investor Tolchin Instruments Inc. purchased the firm, ending direct family stewardship. The company underwent further ownership transitions, including acquisition by in 1981, before regaining independence. In 2012, it restructured as the Buffet Crampon Group to consolidate its expanding portfolio, incorporating key subsidiaries such as Besson in 2006 and Leblanc in 2008, which broadened its offerings in and production. Trail Capital, a French , held majority ownership from around 2012 until December 2024, when Belgian family firm Alcopa completed its acquisition, emphasizing long-term growth in premium instruments. Under Alcopa's ownership, the group pursued strategic expansions in 2024, acquiring a majority stake in Audio Inventions in February to enhance digital woodwind technologies and full ownership of Bergerault in May to strengthen its percussion lineup. These moves complement earlier integrations like Verne Q. Powell Flutes in 2016, solidifying the group's position in professional wind instruments. The Buffet Crampon Group maintains a robust international footprint, with subsidiaries in the United States, , , and facilitating distribution across and . Employing approximately 900 people across six production sites, it generates around €100 million in annual worldwide revenue, with over 95% derived from international markets. In 2025, the company marked its 200th anniversary—originating from its 1825 founding—with celebrations at the in , highlighting its enduring legacy in craftsmanship.

Historical Development

Origins and Early Innovations (1825–1887)

Buffet Crampon's early years were marked by a shift toward specialization in s during the , building on the workshop's initial production of both flutes and s established by founder Denis Buffet-Auger in . Under the leadership of Jean-Louis Buffet, Denis's son, the company expanded its offerings with significant improvements to key mechanisms, including the introduction of the needle spring in by Louis-Auguste Buffet, which enhanced key responsiveness and overall playability by mounting springs on posts screwed directly into the instrument body. This innovation addressed limitations in earlier designs, allowing for more reliable action in the growing demand for professional-grade woodwinds. A pivotal advancement came between 1839 and 1844 through the collaboration between Louis-Auguste Buffet, brother of the founder, and clarinetist Hyacinthe Éléonore Klosé, resulting in the Boehm system clarinet. Adapting Théobald Boehm's flute innovations, they incorporated ring keys—movable rings around tone holes connected by axles to padded keys—for simplified fingering and eliminated cross-fingerings, while a redesigned conical bore improved intonation and tonal evenness across registers. The system featured 17 keys and 6 rings, with smaller tone holes and needle springs, setting the standard for modern French clarinets and earning a patent in 1844. In 1850, to accommodate rising production needs, Buffet Crampon established a dedicated factory in Mantes-la-Ville, , beginning with a small workforce of three and enabling scaled manufacturing of woodwind instruments. By the 1860s, the company introduced the Albert system clarinet, an alternative fingering arrangement with additional keys for extended range and ease in certain passages, alongside early experiments in production influenced by Sax's designs. In 1866, as licensees of Sax's patents, they began crafting saxophones closely modeled on his originals, diversifying beyond clarinets. These innovations were recognized through key patents and accolades, including the 1844 Boehm system patent and a at the 1867 Paris Exposition for the superior quality and acoustic excellence of their clarinets. Further honors followed, such as another in 1878 at the Exhibition for a display of 42 instruments across families including clarinets and saxophones.

Evette & Schaeffer Period (1888–1940s)

In 1885, Paul Evette and Ernest Schaeffer, long-time employees of the firm, acquired Buffet-Crampon from retiring owner Paul Goumas, marking a pivotal shift in leadership and operations. The new proprietors rebranded the company as Evette & Schaeffer while preserving the established Buffet-Crampon name on many instruments, allowing the firm to leverage its legacy in clarinet manufacturing alongside fresh branding for broader market appeal. This transition facilitated standardization in production techniques, emphasizing precision in woodwind construction to meet growing international demand for Boehm-system clarinets. By 1887, Evette & Schaeffer had patented their first model, expanding the company's portfolio beyond and initiating a line of instruments stamped with the dual branding. In the , the firm introduced affordable student-oriented lines under the Evette name, using grenadilla wood to provide quality instruments suitable for beginners at reduced costs. These models helped democratize access to quality instruments, contributing to the company's growth and reputation for reliable entry-level woodwinds. Production scaled accordingly, with the factory in Mantes-la-Ville employing over 175 workers by 1900. The outbreak of in 1914 severely disrupted operations, as the French government repurposed many industrial facilities, including Buffet's, for military production such as munitions and signaling devices, halting regular instrument manufacturing until full resumption around 1920. Post-war recovery in the saw renewed focus on diversification, with enhanced designs and the introduction of production to complement the core lines. During this decade, prototypes for advanced models, including early iterations of the 17/6 Bb configuration, were developed to improve intonation and ergonomics, laying groundwork for future professional instruments. The 1930s brought economic strain from the , which curtailed exports and forced cost-cutting measures, yet the company persisted through targeted innovations in affordable lines. World War II exacerbated challenges, with the 1940 German occupation of the Mantes-la-Ville factory leading to requisitioned resources and minimal output until liberation in 1944; material shortages, particularly metals, persisted into the late 1940s. Recovery under the stewardship of Schaeffer family heirs emphasized rebuilding production capacity, restoring the firm's pre-war standards by the close of the decade.

Post-War Expansion and Modernization (1950s–2009)

Following the end of , Buffet Crampon focused on rebuilding and innovating its product line to meet growing demand from professional musicians. In 1955, acoustician Robert Carrée, who had joined the company as an apprentice in 1921, designed the R13 , which became the brand's flagship model. Crafted from grenadilla wood with a poly-cylindrical bore, the R13 offered enhanced warmth, projection, and tonal focus, quickly gaining popularity among orchestral players, particularly in the United States. This launch marked a pivotal step in the company's post-war recovery, solidifying its reputation for professional-grade clarinets. During the and , Buffet Crampon diversified its offerings, expanding production of bass clarinets and other woodwind instruments to address broader market needs in ensembles and . Models like the early bass clarinets from this era featured improved and keywork, contributing to the company's growth in international sales. By the late , the firm had established itself as a key supplier for orchestras worldwide, with records indicating steady increases in output. The 1980s brought corporate restructuring and modernization efforts, beginning with the 1981 acquisition by , which provided capital for facility upgrades at the Mantes-la-Ville factory. This partnership enabled the introduction of the R13 Prestige in 1981, featuring refined silver-plated keys and enhanced bore stability for professional use. Production processes were streamlined, boosting efficiency and allowing the company to scale operations while maintaining artisanal standards. In the , Buffet Crampon emphasized and global integration, launching the Green Line series in the late 1990s as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood . Composed of 95% recycled grenadilla powder and 5% carbon fiber, the Green Line models, such as the R13 Green Line, replicated the acoustic of grenadilla while resisting cracks from and changes. The decade culminated in key acquisitions, including the purchase of Leblanc's assets, which integrated complementary clarinet lines and strengthened American distribution networks. These moves positioned the company for further group formation under the Buffet Group umbrella.

Contemporary Era (2010–Present)

In the , Buffet Crampon strengthened its artist collaborations to refine instrument designs, notably partnering with clarinettist Paul Meyer to develop the Divine model, a professional emphasizing enhanced intonation, response, and ergonomic keywork through innovative bore and spatula adjustments. This partnership, announced in 2013, built on Meyer's expertise as a tester and clinician to create a versatile instrument blending tradition with modern acoustics. Concurrently, the company expanded its digital presence, including collaborations like the 2023 integration of Arianee's digital passport technology for clarinets to track authenticity and sustainability via . The COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2021 disrupted global operations, yet Buffet Crampon adapted by highlighting research demonstrating that wind instruments posed minimal risk for virus projection during play, supporting continued professional use with precautions. While specific supply chain shifts for grenadilla wood to Asian sources were not publicly detailed, the company maintained production amid broader industry challenges in wood sourcing due to export restrictions from Africa. Virtual sales channels saw growth as live events halted, with online platforms enabling remote demonstrations and purchases to sustain market engagement. In 2024, Buffet Crampon pursued strategic acquisitions to diversify its portfolio, acquiring a majority stake in Audio Inventions, a UK-based developer of innovative woodwind accessories, and fully acquiring Bergerault, a French percussion manufacturer, to expand into classical percussion instruments. These moves complemented earlier expansions, such as the 2016 acquisition of Powell , enhancing the company's offerings and overall range. Later that year, in 2024, the Buffet Crampon Group was acquired by Alcopa, a Belgian investment company, providing new resources for continued growth and innovation. Sustainability became a key focus, exemplified by the 2023 launch of updated Prodige student clarinets featuring ABS resin bodies as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional grenadilla , reducing reliance on while maintaining acoustic quality through digitally machined bores. This line, introduced initially in 2016 and refined for durability and intonation, addressed environmental concerns in wood sourcing. Marking its 200th anniversary in 2025, Buffet Crampon hosted commemorative events, including a special showcase at the in , celebrating two centuries of craftsmanship. A highlight was the release of the Légende in German fingering system, developed in collaboration with Matthias Schorn, principal clarinettist of the , to capture the Viennese sound with Boehm-inspired innovations. Additional festivities included a performance at the International Clarinet Association's ClarinetFest 2025. The R13 model's continued popularity underscored the era's blend of heritage and adaptation.

Products and Brands

Core Instrument Lines

Buffet Crampon's core instrument lines center on woodwind instruments, with s serving as the flagship product line, representing the majority of the company's output and establishing its reputation as a global leader in their manufacture. The company produces a wide array of models in keys such as B♭, A, bass, and , utilizing materials like grenadilla wood for professional and intermediate instruments to achieve rich tonal depth and resonance, while student models often feature durable plastic or Green Line composites for affordability and ease of maintenance. These s emphasize precision in bore design and keywork, contributing to consistent intonation and projection suitable for orchestral, chamber, and . In addition to clarinets, Buffet Crampon offers saxophones primarily through its 100 and 400 series, targeted at students and advancing musicians. The 100 Series includes and models crafted from with a finish, designed for easy playability, centered tone, and immediate response to support beginners in developing technique. The 400 Series extends to saxophones, also in with options for or brushed finishes, providing enhanced projection and ergonomic keywork for intermediate and professional players seeking a balanced, vibrant sound. The company's and English horn offerings focus on professional-grade instruments using the conservatory key system for fluid fingering and expressive control. Oboes include the Orfeo series, available in grenadilla wood or Green Line resin, featuring a full conservatory system with third-octave keys and improved tenon durability for a velvety low register and even tonal consistency across the range. English horns, such as the Prestige model, are constructed from African blackwood with keys, delivering a woody, rounded with precise intonation and ergonomic design, including options for a removable low B♭ extension to enhance projection in orchestral settings. Buffet Crampon also produces bassoons in the French system , prioritizing acoustic and craftsmanship for both emerging and established players. Entry-level student bassoons provide accessible entry into the instrument with simplified keywork and reliable intonation, while professional models like the RC Prestige feature a cap option, nickel-plated keys, and a new bore design for powerful yet warm tone, extended high-range stability, and lightweight construction. These bassoons maintain the French system's emphasis on agility and blend in ensemble playing. Complementing its instruments, Buffet Crampon provides a range of accessories including protective cases, swabs, and maintenance kits tailored for clarinets, saxophones, oboes, English horns, and bassoons to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Reeds and care products are available, often compatible with or bundled alongside offerings from specialist makers like Vandoren for enhanced reed response and instrument preservation.

Acquired and Subsidiary Brands

The Buffet Crampon Group has diversified its portfolio through the integration of several prestigious brands specializing in , woodwind, and percussion instruments, enhancing its offerings beyond core clarinets and saxophones to encompass a broader range of orchestral and ensemble needs. Antoine Courtois produces top-end instruments, including trumpets, flugelhorns, trombones, and saxhorns, which are renowned for their rich and appeal to soloists, orchestras, and musicians worldwide. Besson specializes in high-quality brass instruments, such as sovereign cornets, valued for their unique sound and durability, particularly among marching and brass band players. Julius Keilwerth is celebrated for its saxophones, which embody a distinctive "Keilwerth Sound" influenced by jazz traditions and favored by performers seeking expressive tone and playability. Rigoutat focuses on professional oboes, developed in collaboration with leading musicians to deliver exceptional projection and tonal warmth for orchestral settings. Verne Q. Powell, known as Powell Flutes, crafts handmade professional flutes and piccolos, often featuring construction, and is endorsed by international flutists for its innovative design and superior resonance. Bergerault offers innovative percussion instruments, including and instruments like xylophones and marimbas, emphasizing creativity and artist collaborations to support classical and contemporary ensembles. Additional subsidiaries include B&S for tradition-infused brass instruments blending craftsmanship with modern techniques; Hans Hoyer for orchestral meeting high artistic standards; J. Scherzer for responsive with precise intonation; Melton Meinl Weston for robust tubas exemplifying German engineering; Parmenon for high-end flutes born from musician-craftsman partnerships; and W. Schreiber for woodwinds combining heritage methods with contemporary precision. These brands collectively strengthen the group's position in wind and percussion markets, providing comprehensive solutions for professional musicians.

Manufacturing and Operations

Production Facilities and Processes

Buffet Crampon's primary production facility is located in Mantes-la-Ville, , where the company has manufactured professional wind instruments since 1850. This site serves as the hub for crafting clarinets, oboes, bassoons, and saxophones, combining traditional techniques with modern precision tools to ensure high-quality output. The company sources grenadilla wood (Dalbergia melanoxylon), also known as African blackwood, for the body of its professional instruments, selected for its density and acoustic properties. Keys are typically made from nickel silver with silver plating for durability and tonal enhancement, while student models utilize ABS resin for resilience. Wood components are treated with linseed oil impregnation to stabilize the material and prevent cracking. The manufacturing process begins with wood preparation, where blocks are shaped, turned, and cut to form the instrument body. They are then soaked in and dried to enhance stability. Subsequent steps include sanding the exterior and precision drilling of tone holes and bores to achieve optimal acoustics. Key production involves crafting and posts, pillars, and mechanisms from metal alloys. Assembly follows, with finishers adjusting keys for smooth action and sealing. Each instrument undergoes acoustic testing by expert musicians to verify intonation, playability, and overall quality before final inspection. The workforce at the Mantes-la-Ville facility consists of skilled luthiers and instrument makers, with expertise passed down through generations and supported by the company's École des Savoir-Faire apprenticeship program. Training emphasizes hands-on mastery, often spanning years, and integrates for repetitive tasks in high-volume production lines while preserving manual craftsmanship for critical elements like bore finishing and key adjustments. Sustainability initiatives include the Green LinE series, introduced in 1995, which recycles grenadilla wood waste into a comprising 95% powdered grenadilla and resin to reduce demand on natural resources. In response to grenadilla shortages exacerbated by regulations, Buffet Crampon adopted wood as a sustainable alternative for select models starting in 2021. Student instruments like the Prodige line incorporate bodies as an eco-friendly, crack-resistant option to minimize wood usage.

Sales, Distribution, and Market Position

Buffet Crampon maintains a robust global distribution network, supported by four subsidiaries in the United States, , , and , along with direct partnerships with hundreds of authorized dealers worldwide. The company's North American headquarters and primary U.S. office are located in , facilitating sales and showroom operations across the region. Online sales are available through the official website, buffet-crampon.com, offering secure transactions and free delivery on orders over €100. As the world leader in professional manufacturing, Buffet Crampon holds a dominant market position in the wind instrument sector. The company reported revenue of €110 million in 2023, with over 95% derived from international sales. Following its acquisition by the Belgian investment firm Alcopa in late 2024, Buffet Crampon anticipates continued growth, leveraging Alcopa's resources to expand its portfolio of premium brands. Marketing efforts emphasize artist endorsements and participation in major industry events to reinforce brand prestige. Renowned clarinetist , for instance, performs on customized Buffet Crampon R13 models, highlighting the instruments' professional-grade quality. The company regularly exhibits at trade shows such as NAMM and Musikmesse, showcasing innovations and engaging with musicians and retailers. Buffet Crampon faces competition from established manufacturers like Yamaha in the broader woodwind market, as well as specialized players such as Vandoren for accessories. Pricing reflects this competitive landscape, with student models like the Prodige or Premium starting around €800–€1,200, while professional options such as the R13 or Tradition range from €3,000 to €5,000 or more, depending on materials and customizations. Exports constitute the core of operations, with approximately 95% of production shipped abroad and the strongest demand in —particularly the , which receives the majority of units—and . This export focus underscores Buffet Crampon's international orientation, producing around 15,000 clarinets annually to meet global professional and educational needs.

Clarinet Models

Entry-Level and Student Models

Buffet Crampon's entry-level and student clarinets emphasize affordability, robustness, and ease of play to support novice musicians, particularly in environments where is essential for frequent use. These models prioritize accessible materials and simplified to build foundational skills without compromising basic tonal quality. The Prodige series serves as the cornerstone of Buffet Crampon's beginner lineup, featuring an ABS resin body that resists cracking and environmental damage while maintaining a lightweight design suitable for young players. Equipped with 17 nickel-plated keys and 6 rings, it is pitched in B-flat at 442 Hz, with a poly-cylindrical bore inspired by the professional E13 model for balanced projection and intonation. Priced between €400 and €600, the Prodige is tailored for programs, including a durable hard case and adjustable thumb rest to enhance comfort during extended practice sessions. Buffet Crampon also offers wooden student models such as the E13 and E12F. The E13, made from African blackwood (grenadilla), features 17 keys and 6 rings with leather pads, providing a high-end student option with reliable intonation and tone for advancing beginners. The E12F, developed through Franco-German collaboration, uses grenadilla wood with a focus on ease of play and accuracy, suitable for students transitioning to wood instruments. Key features across these entry-level lines include a straight bore configuration for reliable sound projection and weights typically under 1 kg to reduce for ages 10 and up, fostering consistent practice habits. Innovations such as the Prodige's digitally machined textured bore—developed in between French and German facilities—deliver professional-like acoustics at an entry price point, making advanced tone accessible early in learning.

Intermediate Models

Buffet Crampon's intermediate clarinets, primarily the E11 and E12 series, serve as a bridge between entry-level student instruments and professional models, offering enhanced materials and playability for developing musicians. Constructed from grenadilla wood (African blackwood), these clarinets deliver a fuller, more resonant tone than plastic alternatives, while incorporating ergonomic improvements for better intonation and response. Priced typically between €1,500 and €2,200, they target high school and players seeking an upgrade that balances quality and affordability without the investment required for top-tier instruments. These models feature grenadilla wood bodies with silver-plated keys in Bb and A configurations, utilizing a poly-cylindrical bore for improved projection and reduced playing fatigue. Key enhancements include 17 keys with rings, leather or bladder pads depending on the variant, an adjustable thumb rest, and a standard extending to low Eb, promoting fluid technique and consistent tone across registers. These attributes make them ideal for advancing students transitioning to more demanding , such as or ensemble work. Developed from the 1980s Evette-Schaeffer intermediate line, these models underwent bore refinements in the to optimize airflow and tuning accuracy, drawing on Buffet Crampon's poly-cylindrical heritage for greater ease and reliability. The result is an instrument that supports extended practice sessions without strain, fostering skill progression for semi-serious players.

Professional Models

The professional models of Buffet Crampon clarinets represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship, designed for expert musicians seeking optimal tone quality, projection, and responsiveness in orchestral, chamber, and solo settings. These instruments feature premium materials such as select grenadilla wood, precision-engineered bores, and advanced key mechanisms to meet the demands of professional performance. The flagship R13 model, introduced in 1955 following designs initiated around 1953 by acoustician Robert Carrée, has become a standard in orchestras worldwide due to its balanced, rich harmonics and powerful projection across all registers. Crafted from grenadilla wood with a 17-key, 6-ring configuration and poly-cylindrical bore, the R13 offers exceptional intonation and versatility for symphony, chamber, and solo repertoires. Priced above €3,500, it remains a best-seller among professionals. The Tradition model draws inspiration from pre-1950s designs, incorporating a bore profile that yields a warmer, more intimate tone through denser grenadilla wood selection. It features a 19-key, 6-ring with an optional left-hand Eb lever for enhanced , along with metal-capped tenons and adjustable thumb rests tuned to 440/442 Hz. This configuration provides a vintage-inspired openness while maintaining modern intonation, ideal for nuanced expressive playing. Other notable professional models include the , which evokes a aesthetic with its refined keywork and centered tone for lyrical passages; the , utilizing sustainable Green-LinE® material made from grenadilla powder and carbon fiber composite for environmental responsibility without compromising acoustic integrity; and the Légende, an evolution of offering a precise, muffled and unique through premium grenadilla construction and gold-plated pillars. These models emphasize elite optimization for orchestral use. Common features across these professional clarinets include hand-lapped keys for airtight seals, blue steel springs for responsive action, and options for custom engravings to personalize the instrument. Each undergoes rigorous acoustic testing during hand-finishing to ensure consistent tonal quality and playability. Buffet Crampon's professional models are the preferred choice of a majority of orchestral clarinetists globally, underscoring their dominance in the field.

References

  1. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/expertise-and-story/our-story.html
  2. https://banddirector.com/woodwinds/clarinet/comparing-the-buffet-crampon-r13-and-e11-clarinets-what-are-the-differences/
  3. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/about-us/our-history/
  4. https://www.ackermanmusic.co.uk/musical-instruments-blog/buffet-crampon-200-year-anniversary/
  5. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/our-brands/
  6. https://www.selmer.fr/en/blogs/infos/histoire-clarinette
  7. https://www.circb.info/?q=node/10071
  8. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/503549
  9. https://www.mvim.com.br/en/fabricante/buffet-crampon-en/
  10. https://www.besson.com/en/our-story/
  11. https://musicincmag.com/legacy/News/2008/080923/080923_leblanc.html
  12. https://app.mergerlinks.com/transactions/2025-01-03-buffet-crampon/service-providers
  13. https://www.natixispartners.be/en/transaction/alcopa-ma-advisory/
  14. https://gbhlaw.co.uk/2024/02/08/gbh-law-advises-shareholders-in-audio-inventions-limited/
  15. https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/52667-29
  16. https://mergr.com/transaction/buffet-crampon-acquires-verne-q-powell-flutes
  17. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/about-us/presence-in-the-world/
  18. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/about-us/in-a-trice/
  19. https://mmrmagazine.com/buffet-crampon-celebrates-200th-anniversary-in-style-at-2025-namm-show/
  20. https://www.niu.edu/gbarrett/resources/development.shtml
  21. https://www.nemc.com/blog/buffet-clarinets-are-not-just-for-pros
  22. https://www.academia.edu/41158443/_The_early_history_of_the_nineteenth_century_Boehm_clarinet_Musique_Images_Instruments_no_13_2012_131_45
  23. https://nationalsaxophonemuseum.com/buffet.html
  24. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/
  25. https://www.prestomusic.com/instruments-accessories/articles/6384--spotlight-buffet-crampon-200-years-of-exceptional-craftsmanship
  26. https://www.brasshistory.net/Buffet%20History.pdf
  27. https://www.academia.edu/41159739/_Making_and_Improving_the_Nineteenth_Century_Saxophone_Journal_of_the_American_Musical_Instrument_Society_35_2009_81_122
  28. https://www.saxophone.org/museum/saxophones/manufacturer/58
  29. http://www.saxpics.com/?v=mod&modID=30
  30. https://clarinet.org/a-panorama-of-clarinet-history-andrea-greganti-and-his-clarinet-collection/
  31. https://www.adams-music.com/en/repair-and-maintenance/serial-numbers/buffet_crampon
  32. http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/read.html?f=1&i=489773&t=489773
  33. https://www.vanguardorchestral.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Buffet-Crampon-Clarinets.pdf
  34. https://www.saxontheweb.net/threads/vintage-buffet-bass-clarinet.145064/
  35. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/instruments/clarinets.html
  36. http://www.saxpics.com/?v=man&manID=12
  37. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVmfe8Y9ULI
  38. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/news/
  39. https://www.musicretailspotlight.com/reviving-band-instruments/
  40. https://slippedisc.com/2024/06/french-instrument-makers-complete-takeover/
  41. https://mmrmagazine.com/powell-flutes-joins-buffet-crampon/
  42. https://www.veil.fr/en/veil-jourde-counsel-to-trail-in-the-sale-of-buffet-crampon-to-alcopa/
  43. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/prodige-clarinet-17-6-bc2541-5-0abs.html
  44. https://www.justflutes.com/shop/product/buffet-crampon-bc2541-2-0-prodige-bb-clarinet
  45. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOUzZXhfgZE
  46. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiVr9BMxQMM
  47. https://store.weinermusic.com/collections/3307-buffet-crampon
  48. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/instruments/saxophones.html
  49. https://eu.buffet-crampon.com/bc_MK_en/instruments/saxophones.html
  50. https://www.prowinds.com/product/11041/Professional_Oboes
  51. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/prestige-english-horn-bc4713-2-0.html
  52. https://eu.buffet-crampon.com/bc_ES_en/rc-prestige-bassoon-nickel-plated-resonance-cap-bc5613r-5-0.html
  53. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/instruments/accessories.html
  54. https://www.rigoutat.com/en/
  55. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/where-to-find-us.html
  56. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/expertise-and-story/expertise.html
  57. https://www.saxophon-service.de/media/pdf/Kataloge/Buffet_Crampon_ENG.pdf
  58. https://www.prosono-hardwoods.com/blog/buffet-crampons-introduction-of-mopane-clarinets-reactions-and-demos/
  59. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/
  60. https://www.musicincmag.com/news/detail/buffet-crampon-usa-opens-new-double-reed-showroom
  61. https://www.buffetcrampongroup.com/en/media/news-release/
  62. https://www.tubaforum.net/viewtopic.php?t=10716
  63. http://www.richardstoltzman.com/blog/tag/Richard%2BStoltzman
  64. https://ww1.namm.org/sites/www.namm.org/files_public/resources/OH_Complete_List.pdf
  65. https://www.rfi.fr/en/france/20251012-generations-of-musicians-threatened-by-us-tariffs-say-french-instrument-makers
  66. https://kesslerandsons.com/product/buffet-premium-student-clarinet/
  67. https://www.sweetwater.com/c1263--Buffet_Crampon--Clarinets
  68. https://www.clarinetworks.com/buffet-clarinets/
  69. https://www.thomannmusic.com/buffet_crampon_prodige_bb_clarinet_17_6.htm
  70. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/e13-clarinet-17-6-bc1102c-2-0.html
  71. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/e12f-clarinet-17-6-bc2512f-2-0gb.html
  72. https://www.howarthlondon.com/product/e12-france-bb-clarinet/
  73. https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/BFE11S--buffet-crampon-e11-intermediate-bb-clarinet-silver-plated-keys
  74. https://www.andysmusic.com/products/buffet-bc2501n50abs-e11-intermediate-wooden-clarinet-1
  75. https://thevault.musicarts.com/comparing-buffet-crampon-r13-e11-clarinets-differences/
  76. https://kesslerandsons.com/blog/the-confusing-history-of-the-buffet-e11-clarinet/
  77. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/r13-clarinet-17-6-bc1131-2-0.html
  78. http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/read.html?f=1&i=1774&t=1774
  79. https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/BFR13S--buffet-crampon-r13-professional-bb-clarinet-silver-plated-keys
  80. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_CA_en/tradition-clarinet-with-e-flat-lever-19-6-bc1216ln-5-0p.html
  81. https://kesslerandsons.com/clarinets/buffet-clarinets/
  82. http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/read.html?f=1&i=483896&t=483896
  83. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/tosca-clarinet-with-e-flat-lever-19-6-bc1150l-2-0.html
  84. https://na.buffet-crampon.com/bc_US_en/legende-clarinet-with-e-flat-lever-19-6-bc1256l-2-0.html
  85. https://www.amazon.com/Buffet-Crampon-Professional-Clarinet-Nickel/dp/B0002F5G3O
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.