Brands
Miraphone is the fusion of tradition, craftsmanship, and modern technology. Each craftsman can play the instrument they are building, adhering to very high standards and requirements.
For seven generations, the Meinl-Langhammer family has devoted their work to meticulous workmanship, continuous research and development as well as personal dedication to quality. Meinl is the name known for technical leadership and flawless mechanical quality.
Established in 1881, the reputation of F. Loree instruments is based on a tradition of attention to detail as well as research, development, and innovation. Carefully selected pieces of Mozambique Grenadilla wood are aged for more than five years. The keys are forged from solid nickel silver, and then plated with a thick coat of silver. The exacting tolerances kept to when fitting the keywork result in a very dependable mechanism. Cork pads seated on airtight tone holes produce the ease of response and ability to achieve the subtle nuances that have been synonymous with the mark F. Loree for decades.
The objective of Yamaha is to enrich culture with technology and passion born of sound and music, together with people all over the world. Yamaha strives to create "Kando", which is a Japanese word that signifies an inspired state of mind.
Haynes flutes and piccolos are revered worldwide by legendary artists of the past and present. From the aspiring student to the master, the compelling presence of a Haynes instrument draws out the very best musical performance enabling instrumentalists of all levels to realize their full potential.
Designed by a former top Yamaha flutemaker, the Nomata flute offers the player exceptional response and color, wide dynamic contrast, delicately smooth key work and an even scale.
Extensive research enables Besson to produce the best valve instruments available today, along with an innovative range of rotary valve instruments. Besson brass instruments are esteemed by the most talented musicians all over the world, who seek above all ìThe Real Besson Sound".
For over one hundred years, the J. Puchner firm has been dedicated to the art and craft of manufacturing the finest hand made bassoons available. The Puchner family, now in the fourth generation of master instrument making, strives to maintain the special qualities of the Puchner bassoon by coupling the latest in technological development with their experience in master craftsmanship.
GÈrard Fossati created his first instrument in 1983, bringing to it his extensive skills and experience. Fossati works hand-in-hand with many players. From Brazil to Russia or from Japan to the USA, GÈrard Fossati does not hesitate to travel the world to meet them. Twenty-five years after the creation of the firm, the Fossati brand is an important name on the international oboe market.
The Pearl flute company can be described with three words: Past, Present and Future. Through the apprentice program that has been in place for decades, the talents of the master builders are passed on to future generations. This continuity contributes to an environment of innovation that has produced noticeable changes to the flute. From the One-Piece Core Bar construction to the Pinless mechanism, Pearl continues to seek changes that will benefit and enhance the performerís comfort and means of expression.
After retiring from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1949, Hugo Fox settled in South Whitley, Indiana and founded what is now Fox Products Corporation. Since completing their first bassoon in 1951, Fox has come to represent the finest in detailed craftsmanship. Through constant development, Fox has created a series of professional bassoons to meet the demands of any discriminating player.
Old world hand craftsmanship and precision Swiss technology have been combined to ensure the consistency and quality control in the specialized, limited production of every Willson instrument.
Bulgheroni is unique in that all of its manufacturing processes are handled exclusively in their Como workshop. This guarantees instruments of outstanding quality, accompanied by an elegant design and innovative solutions. This is possible thanks to on-going technological updating, and the presence of skilled craftsman. These artisans give life to a fine piece of wood, transforming it into a unique musical instrument.
For over 50 years the name Marigaux has been associated with those of the greatest oboe players, and its reputation is continuing to assert itself. The Marigaux oboe is a fi rst choice instrument throughout the world today. It is exported to around 60 different countries and is played in the most renowned orchestras world-wide. This success is a result of combining the talents of technician teams and musicians.
Manufactured by a family of artisans who maintain a very high standard of quality in the Italian tradition, Patricola professional oboes are handmade to your satisfaction. Each instrument, whether made with Grenadilla or Rosewood, is naturally seasoned for up to 13 years. The keywork is handcrafted and silver plated to ensure outstanding action. The artisans at Patricola take great pride in knowing that their woodwinds are used in the most orchestras and music schools all over the world.
The dignified beauty of the Sankyo flute begins with the tiniest details. The secret behind Sankyoís craftsmanship is that nothing is neglected in the manufacturing process. Each flute is made from meticulously crafted parts and is carefully assembled by hand. Even the tiniest of pieces that need to be lifted with tweezers are so beautifully crafted that even they are works of art.
A wooden headjoint on a silver flute is an intriguing combination. The subtle nature of wood can greatly enhance the flutistís tonal color range. These models are particularly suitable due to their tonal quality, reliability and stability. The type of wood you choose largely depends on what you expect from a headjoint and the type of music that you play. You may also simply enjoy the sound produced from a particular wood. Enjoy exploring these headjoints and the fresh voice they give the flute.
Since its inception in 1825, making oboes has always been part of Buffet Crampon’s history. Many renowned musicians have collaborated in oboe development, of particular note being Pierre Pierlot, professor at the “Conservatoire National de Musique de Paris” and soloist with the “Orchestre National de l’Opéra de Paris”.
The company Wilhem Heckel, founded in 1831 in Weisbaden Germany, is without doubt one of the oldest workshops for the construction of woodwind instruments. The rich history and experience of the Heckel family, combined with the most recent acoustic and technical findings form the basis for production of Heckelís superb instruments and accessories. C is the most common bore. It adapts very well to the conical form of the instrument. B and Bb bores respond well in the high range. Adding a V or E or X into the model number will give better adjustment to the middle register and better response in the high register. Adding a D into the model number indicates that it uses thinner plating which will allow it to resonate a little more freely.
Traditional craftsmanship in combination with innovative production processes and the use of the dimensionally correct tooling, greatly influence the sound character of the instruments.