- since 1948 - E d u c a t i o n B r o c h u r e
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Contents About Howarth of London 2 Oboes Howarth Junior Oboe 5 Howarth S10 Oboe 6 Howarth S20 Oboe 7 Howarth S40 & S45 Oboes 8 Howarth Professional Oboes 10 Cors Anglais & d Amore Howarth Student Cors Anglais 13 Howarth Professional Cors Anglais and Oboe d Amore 14 Bassoons Howarth Mini-Bassoon & Tenoroon 16 Heyday s Fagonello 18 Children s Bassoons 19 Howarth Academy Bassoons 20 Clarinets Howarth Junior Clarinets 22 Howarth SimpleFit Mouthpiece 23 Howarth Academy Clarinet 24 Saxophones Trevor James Alphasax 26 Howarth Saxophones 27 Flutes Howarth Junior Eb Flute 28 Student Flutes 29 Instruments for Young Learners Jupiter Saxonette 30 Nuvo Instruments 32
About Howarth of London Howarth of London are internationally known makers of fine woodwind instruments. We transform high-quality raw materials into oboes, oboes d amore and cors anglais using a combination of precision technology and traditional handcrafting. We stock a choice of instruments from a range of well-respected manufacturers and are one of the leading suppliers of oboes, bassoons, clarinets, and saxophones. Our specialist staff can help players select the best instruments to meet their requirements. Our main showroom is in the heart of London s West End, within easy reach of concert venues, recording studios and the famous London music colleges. The manufacturing workshops are in Worthing, West Sussex. Howarth of London is under the ownership of Director Jeremy Walsworth. Howarth Junior Instruments We have developed an innovative collection of instruments designed for young children and beginners. By focussing on the needs and capabilities of a new player, we have designed instruments to be lighter, simpler and in some cases smaller than traditional student models. They are played using standard fingerings, techniques, and reeds to help children progress easily on to more advanced instruments when they are ready. Playing instruments tailored to the requirements of a student can remove some of the hurdles faced as they learn and makes instruments more accessible to children and beginners. The Junior instruments are made from the same materials as traditional models to ensure they are of the same quality with good acoustics. This helps give children the opportunity to experience a high standard of music education and gain from the all-round benefits of music. Other manufacturers have developed woodwind instruments that are specifically for children and beginners. These are also included in this brochure. Howarth Education Our Education Department is based in the manufacturing workshops in Worthing, West Sussex. Please contact us if you would like any further information about any of the instruments. We can advise students, parents, and educators on successful teaching methods, the selection of instruments and the opportunities for progression. Contact details: Education Department Howarth of London 19 Buckingham Road Worthing BN11 1TH UK T: +44 (0)1903 239 219 E: education@howarth.uk.com
3 Many professional oboists started on a Howarth student model.
Howarth Junior instruments are designed to be simple, light and effective to give learners the best start. 4 4
Howarth Junior Oboe The Howarth Junior oboe has been designed for children and beginners. It is lighter and easier to play compared to a standard student model as the specially designed keywork system includes only the keys needed in the first stages of learning. There are extensions on some of the keys to make them easier for small hands to reach. The instrument can play a full chromatic range of over two and a half octaves from low C and can be used in instrumental exams up to grade 3. It uses standard reeds and fingerings to make it easy for a student to move onto a more advanced model as they progress. The reduced keywork makes the instrument quicker and easier to assemble as vulnerable mechanisms, such as the low B and Bb keys and the linkages between joints, have been removed. This helps to increase the durability of the instrument as these are the keys most prone to accidental damage. The Howarth Junior oboe is supplied in a colourful backpack case with a spacious pocket for accessories. It comes with cleaning materials, cork grease and a reedcase with space for three reeds. Junior Oboe Special lightweight key mechanism Extensions on four finger plates Covered holes Uses standard reeds and fingerings Fully chromatic range of 2½ octaves from low C Thumbplate system with simple action octaves Body made from seasoned African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) Silver-plated keys Finger plate extensions give greater comfort for small hands. No linkages across joints for ease of handling and durability. 5
Howarth S10 Oboe The Howarth S10 oboe is the perfect choice for students wanting a light instrument that can play the oboe s full range. At 580g it is the lightest of our full system oboes, compared to a professional instrument which can weigh up to 200g more. It was the first student oboe that we produced and many of today s professional players started learning on this model. The oboe has an English thumbplate system with a simple octave mechanism. It has covered plateau keys to make the oboe suitable for those with small hands. This allows the player more flexibility when placing their fingers on the keys and can help to reduce the distance between the fingers. Our student instruments are all made from African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon). It is a dark-coloured, high-density wood that gives power to the tone quality. The keywork is made from hard-wearing nickel-silver that has a generous coating of silver-plating. The quality of the materials makes the instrument easy to maintain and helps to protect the instrument from accidental damage during assembly. Many teachers, education authorities and music services around the UK recommend this instrument to their students. The Howarth S10 oboe is supplied in a colourful backpack case with a spacious pocket for accessories. It comes with cleaning materials, cork grease and a reedcase with space for three reeds. S10 Oboe English thumbplate system with simple octave mechanism Covered holes Left-hand C-D trill key Low B-C link Forked F venting mechanism Body made from seasoned African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) Silver-plated keys Covered hole plateau keys make playing easier for those with small hands. The keys allow the fingers to sit in the most comfortable position 6
Howarth S20 Oboe The Howarth S20 oboe is an intermediate instrument best suited to advancing student players. It is an English thumbplate system oboe that can take a student to grade 8 and beyond with some of the features found on more advanced models, including semi-automatic octaves. It has covered holes like the S10 so those with smaller hands can easily cover the keys. The instrument has more keywork than the S10 oboe including extra trill keys to make ornamenting music easier in complicated passages. There is a Bb vent on the bell to enhance the tone and tuning of the note. The extra keywork on the S20 only slightly increases the weight of the instrument, which weighs 30g more than an S10. This makes it still light enough for younger players to hold. The Howarth S20 oboe is supplied in a Howarth Academy case and matching cover with a fleece padded lining that offers extra protection. It comes with a range of accessories including cleaning materials, cork grease, reedcase and a silver polishing cloth. S20 Oboe English thumbplate system oboe with semi-automatic octaves Covered holes C-D trill key (x2) C-C# trill key Forked F vent Low Bb vent Articulated C# Body made from seasoned African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) Silver-plated keys The S20 has a Bb vent on the bell to enhance the tone and tuning of the note. Semi-automatic mechanismsmakes changing between the octaves easier. 7
Howarth S40 and S45 Oboes The Howarth S40 and S45 oboes have been designed with diploma level players in mind. The instruments are dual system oboes, which combines the conservatoire system with an added thumbplate. This type of mechanism is found on many advanced and professional instruments in the United Kingdom and it gives the player a wide range of alternative fingerings to choose from. The Howarth S40 is suitable for accomplished young musicians who require a lighter instrument. It has many of the advanced keywork features found on a professional oboe yet it is nearly 100g lighter than the S45 and professional models. The Howarth S45 has a thicker-walled body that produces a darker and more powerful sound. It has the same keywork specifications as the S40 oboe with the addition of select undercutting to further enrich the tone. The Howarth S40 and S45 instruments have vented plateau keys. This extends the fingering options in the oboe s upper register and provides the player a wider choice of trills, making it easier to play more complicated passages. The vented keys also help to enhance the tone of the instrument by making it sound more open. We have given the S45 metal socket liners and metal-sleeved tenons, which is a feature usually only seen on professional models. They provide a barrier between the wood and the moisture that can collect in the sockets as well as securing the alignment of the joints for long-lasting protection and better action. The Howarth S40 oboe is supplied in a Howarth Academy case with matching cover. The thicker-walled S45 comes in an Academy PLUS+ case with a Howarth Academy case cover. Both instruments come with a range of accessories including cleaning materials, cork grease, reedcase and silver polishing cloth. S40 & S45 Oboes As Howarth S20 oboe, with: Vented plateau keys to facilitate trills Enhanced open sound Ab-Bb and Ab-A trill mechanisms Auxiliary C 8
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Howarth Professional Oboes XL XM LXV The Howarth professional oboes were developed to fulfil the demands and expectations of the world s finest players. In collaboration with top oboists, we have created three prestige instruments, the XL, XM, and LXV. They are played in the greatest orchestras worldwide and many of the finest solo artists perform on a model from our professional range. Each instrument has a flexible diversity of tone to give the oboist freedom to perform with great elegance and character. We make our professional models from two different woods so players can select their preferred tonal qualities. Many professional instruments are made from African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon). It is a dark, high-density wood that provides power to the tone quality. In contrast, the orange-coloured Cocobolo (Dalbergia retusa) is a lighter, lower-density wood that produces a warm, rich palette, offering a distinct alternative timbre. A Cocobolo instrument is approximately 10% lighter than a model made from African Blackwood. The professional models are handmade by our most experienced craftsmen, who carefully make the keywork from nickel-silver components before the keys are given a generous layer of silver-plate. It is also possible to order gold-plated keys. The accuracy and fine tolerances used during manufacturing provides the oboe with a clean, quick action, giving the player complete confidence in the instrument. The oboes are fitted with an adjustable thumbrest to add to the comfort of playing a professional instrument. The oboes have metal socket liners and metal-sleeved tenons to ensure greater protection, durability and better mechanical security. The adjustable thumbrest on all Howarth professional models gives added comfort whilst playing. Keywork is finished in a generous layer of silver-plate. Gold-plating is available to special order. Howarth professional oboes are supplied in a bespoke solid wood case lined with green velvet, which is protected by a Howarth professional case cover. The instrument is supplied with premium accessories including a grease pot and a screwdriver with wooden embellishment, designed and produced in our workshops. XL XM LXV Larger Bore Smaller Bore Thicker Walls Thinner Walls Sound Produced Big sound, classical projection Continental dark sound Powerful projection, dark sound Howarth professional oboes are supplied in a bespoke solid wood case lined with green velvet. 10
XL Oboe shown in African Blackwood with silver-plate XM Oboe shown in African Blackwood with gold-plate LXV Oboe shown in Cocobolo with silver-plate Howarth oboes have a series of adjusting screws for fine tuning. Our experienced craftsmen make the keywork by hand to fine tolerances. All Howarth professional oboes have metal socket liners and metal-sleeved tenons. 11
Howarth make and supply a range of instruments from student to professional level. 12 12
S20 Cor Anglais S40 Cor Anglais Howarth Student Cors Anglais Howarth have designed a range of cors anglais that are suitable for students and developing players. The Howarth S20 cor anglais is the first in this series and it is an ideal model for beginners. The keywork specification is the same as our S20 oboe (see page 7), which has covered keys to make them easier to reach. This model is available as a thumbplate system or as a dual system, which is a conservatoire system with an added thumbplate. The Howarth S40 cor anglais is a graduate level instrument designed for the more advanced player. Like the S40 oboe (page 8), the S40 cor anglais has vented plateau keys. This increases the number of fingerings available in the upper register of the instrument and gives the musician more options when playing trills. The vents in the keywork also help to enhance the instrument s rich, mellow tone. The sockets of the S40 cor anglais are lined with metal and the tenons have metal tips to protect the instrument from moisture that can collect in the sockets. This also helps to secure the alignment of the instruments, ensuring the joints maintain a good fit. The Howarth S20 and S40 cors anglais are supplied in Howarth Academy cases with matching case covers. Both instruments come with a range of accessories including cleaning materials, cork grease, reedcase and a silver polishing cloth. One crook is included with every student instrument. S20 & S20c Dual System Cors Anglais English thumbplate system / conservatoire + thumbplate system Covered hole Semi-automatic octaves 3rd octave key Adjusting screw for top C# Left-hand F key Articulated C# Body made from seasoned African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) Silver-plated keys S40c Dual System Cor Anglais As S20 cors anglais Vented plateau keys More open sound Lined tenon sockets and metal-tipped tenons Ab-Bb trills Double C-head (low C-C# trill) 13
Howarth Professional Cors Anglais & Oboes d Amore The Howarth professional cors anglais and oboe d amore are designed to meet the requirements of the world s finest players. The S5 and XL cor anglais and the XL d amore are made by our most experienced craftsmen who also make our prestige range of oboes. We have carefully developed the instruments to meet the requirements of professional musicians, allowing them to perform with confidence and style. The Howarth S5 uses our original professional bore, which is the benchmark of the Howarth reputation. It produces a large and powerful sound that our craftsmen enhance by fully undercutting the toneholes. It is made from high-density African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon), which gives strength to the tone. The Howarth S5 is nearly 10% lighter than the XL cor anglais, making it a good choice for players wanting a lighter professional instrument. It has all the keywork expected of a cor anglais at this level, including the split D key to improve intonation on E- Eb trills. The adjustable thumbrest gives a player more flexibility in the way players hold their instrument. The Howarth XL cor anglais and oboe d amore have been designed with a unique tone hole structure that gives a focussed sound with exceptional projection and intonation. We have adapted the keywork to make the instruments more comfortable to hold and to allow greater dexterity while performing. The addition of an adjustable thumbrest gives a player more flexibility in the way they hold their instrument for comfort. The professional models all have metal socket liners and metal-sleeved tenons to ensure greater protection, durability and better mechanical security. We supply the Howarth XL cor anglais with a separate Bb extension to increase the range of the instrument. This model also features a vent on the bell to enrich the quality of the low B. Both XL models are produced in either African Blackwood or Cocobolo. The Howarth XL cor anglais is supplied in a bespoke solid wood case lined with green velvet, which is protected by a Howarth professional case cover. The S5 cor anglais and the XL d amore are supplied in Howarth professional cases with matching case covers. All instruments come with a range of accessories including cleaning materials, cork grease and a reedcase. Two crooks are supplied with each instrument. All Howarth crooks are hand-crafted in our manufacturing workshops. They are available in four lengths (0-1 - 2-3) 14
S5c Cor Anglais XL Cor Anglais XL Oboe d Amore Howarth XL cor anglais is supplied with a separate Bb extension to increase the range of the instrument The XL cor anglais has a B vent on the bell to enhance the quality of the low B. 15
Howarth Mini-Bassoon and Tenoroon The Howarth mini-bassoon and tenoroon are instruments designed for children. They are played using standard fingerings and reeds, so it is easy for children to progress onto a full-size instrument when they are ready. Previously children had to wait until they were physically capable of holding a bassoon, which could lead to them choosing a different musical path. The introduction of the mini-bassoon and tenoroon allow children to learn on an instrument designed for their capabilities. The mini-bassoon and tenoroon are smaller than the standard bassoon. The mini-bassoon is suitable for children as young as seven as it is only two thirds of the full bassoon s height and approximately 30% of its weight. It is pitched in G, a fifth higher than a bassoon. The tenoroon is aimed at slightly older children as it is marginally larger than the mini-bassoon and pitched in F, a fourth higher than the bassoon. Standard teaching materials can be used as many pieces are available with appropriately transposed accompaniments. The mini-bassoons and tenoroons feature on notation software making it easy to transpose other pieces of music and piano accompaniments as needed. The mini-bassoon and tenoroon are made from the same high-quality materials used to make full-size bassoons. They have carefully crafted nickel-silver keys, which are given a generous coating of silver-plate. The body of each instrument is made from European maple, and like a full-size bassoon, has an ebonite lining to protect the wood from moisture. Metal caps are fitted to the instrument s wing joint for protection, which helps to stop water entering the end grain of the wood and separating the ebonite liner from the wooden part of the joint. We fit a metal cap to the wing joint of the mini-bassoon and tenoroon to protect the tenon from water We make our own design of handrest for the mini-bassoon and tenoroon Mini-bassoons and tenoroons are supplied in a sturdy backpack case with cleaning materials, reedcase and a sling. We also include our own design of handrest for the mini-bassoon and tenoroon to ensure that the student s hand is closer to the main body of the instrument. This makes the instrument more comfortable to hold and play. Detailed diagrams showing how to assemble the instrument are included, making it easier for parents to support their children in the first stages of learning. The instruments come in a backpack case with room for accessories 16
Mini-Bassoon Tenoroon Mini-Bassoon Designed for players from 7 years old Around 30% of the full bassoon s weight In G, a 5th higher than a bassoon Uses same fingerings as the full-size bassoon Body in traditional European Maple Silver-plated keywork Tenoroon Designed for players around 9 years old Around 35% of the full bassoon s weight In F, a 4th higher than a bassoon Once classed as an endangered instrument, the bassoon is gaining popularity due to the development of mini-bassoons. Photograph by Kevin Leighton from LSO On Track - Lite of Spring, April 2007 17
Heyday s Fagonello The Fagonello is a lightweight bassoon made by Heydays. It has no bell to help reduce the weight and length of the instrument, making it suitable for children aged between five and ten years old. At around 1.25 kg, the Fagonello is 2-3 times lighter than a standard bassoon. The Fagonello is at the same pitch as a full-size bassoon and can play a range of three octaves chromatically from low C. It uses standard bassoon fingerings and reeds to make it easy for a student to move to a large bassoon when they are ready. The instrument s body has a unique one-piece design with a built in handrest. This is made to be substantially lighter than a standard student bassoon. There are no joints to assemble, a child only needs to add the crook and reed before the instrument is ready to play. This protects the instrument from potential damage caused by incorrect assembly or disassembly and helps the instrument stay in good condition for longer. This can also reduce the maintenance costs of the instrument. The Fagonello is supplied in a specially designed tube-shaped case with cleaning materials and accessories. It also comes with a crook that has been reinforced to prevent it from bending. Fagonello Less than 50% of the weight of a full-size bassoon One-piece design including built-in handrest Reduced keywork system Reinforced crook Played using standard reeds and fingerings Wooden body Silver-plated keywork The one-piece design of the Fagonello has a built-in handrest. The crook has been reinforced to prevent bending. 18
Amati ABN 32c Bassoon Adler 1350 Bassoon Children s Bassoons Bassoon manufacturers Oscar Adler & Co. and Amati have adapted standard designs of instruments especially for children. Both the Adler 1350 and the Amati ABN 32c children s bassoons are a great stepping stone from the mini-bassoon or tenoroon for students who are not ready for the weight of a full-size bassoon. The children s bassoons are lighter than traditional models as they have no bell, making the lowest note a C. Both models can play three chromatic octaves and are at the same sounding pitch as a traditional model. They are played using standard reeds and fingerings. The bass notes of the Adler 1350 can be improved by using the optional Plexi Resonator (shown in the image), to enhance the tuning without adding weight to the instrument. The Amati ABN 32c has adapted keywork that can be described as ultra-short reach. The left-hand thumb keys have been extended to make it easier for those with small hands to play the instrument comfortably. The Adler 1350 bassoon has the standard basic system keywork expected on a short-reach student instrument with a clever indent in the wood of the long joint to help the player reach the left-hand keys more easily. This model can be purchased with or without a whisper key. Both instruments come with a balance hanger, which alters the bassoon s centre of gravity and distributes the weight more evenly between the two hands to better support the bassoon. The instruments are supplied in a gigbag with cleaning materials and a crook. The Adler crook is a special deep-bend model positioned at an angle that makes the reed easier for younger players to reach while playing. A balance hanger is supplied with the instruments to make them easier to hold. The Adler 1350 has an indent in the wood to help the player reach the left-hand keys. 19
Howarth Academy Bassoons Howarth Academy bassoons are exclusively made for us by an established German bassoon maker. They are based on the design of their professional model to produce instruments with a rich, full-textured sound. They are available as a short-reach model and as a standard bassoon. The short-reach bassoon is an appropriate solution for bassoonists with small hands. The left-hand keywork has been adapted to make it easier to reach the keys, which includes extending the thumb keys and adding a covered hole for the third finger. It features a uniquely designed high D key that overlaps the C key. This reduces the stretch for the thumb compared to the traditional placement of the D key touch. The standard Academy bassoon is an ideal instrument to take a student to music college level. It has more keys than the short-reach model including an alternative Ab key for the right thumb and high Eb and C# trill keys. There is no Bb key for the right-hand 3rd finger on either the standard or short-reach Academy bassoon to bring the right-hand finger keys closer together for comfort. The Howarth Academy bassoons are made from European maple and are finished with a high-quality and durable gloss lacquer. The inside of the instrument is protected by a lining in the wing joint, finger holes and Ab toneholes. This protects the bassoon from moisture that goes through the instrument. Both sides of the boot joint are also lined, which is a feature usually only found on more advanced models. The Academy bassoons are protected by metal caps on the wing tenon and both ends of the long joint. They also have metal-lined sockets. This helps to strengthen the tenon and maintain a secure alignment as well as offering protection from moisture in areas where water can collect. The left-hand thumb keys have been extended so they are easier to reach with small hands. The short-reach bassoon has a plateau key for the third finger to help students cover the C tonehole The Howarth Academy bassoons are supplied in a backpack case with accessories including a sling, cleaning materials and a crook. The spacing of the right-hand keys have been reduced for ease and greater comfort while playing 20
Academy Short-Reach Bassoon Academy Student Bassoon Short-Reach Model Reduced keywork to lessen weight Adapted left- and right-hand keywork to suit small hands High-quality durable gloss lacquer finish Body in traditional European Maple Nickel-silver keywork with a silver-plated finish Both sides of boot joint lined for extra protection Lined sockets on boot joint & protection ring on bass joint tenons Lined Ab tone hole 5 lined finger holes Standard Model As short reach model, with Standard keys for left hand Alternative Ab key for right thumb F# & C# trill keys The Academy bassoons are protected by metal caps on the wing tenon and both ends of the long joint. The bassoons have metal lined sockets to protect the joints and maintain a secure alignment 21
Junior MX Clarinet Junior PLUS+ Clarinet Howarth Junior Clarinets We have designed two models of Junior clarinet that are lighter and simpler than standard student instruments. They are best suited to children and young beginners and are extremely popular with teachers who give group lessons. The Howarth Junior MX is the simplest of the two models with a very reduced keywork system. It weighs slightly over 500g, which is approximately 40% lighter than a standard clarinet. The Junior MX plays just over a one-octave G major scale, making it perfect as a first access instrument to teach the early skills of playing the clarinet. It was developed in conjunction with Lambeth Music Service for their whole class ensemble project called Musitrax. The Howarth Junior PLUS+ clarinet gives a player access to over three and a half chromatic octaves on an instrument that is around 100g lighter than a standard student model. We have removed keys for alternative fingerings and trills to reduce the complexity of the instrument while allowing a student to achieve grade 3 level. The reduced keywork on the Junior clarinets allows students to assemble the instruments easily and with less chance of accidental damage. To increase the durability of the instrument we have also removed the most vulnerable keywork, such as the link mechanism between the top and bottom joints. This helps to keep the instrument in good condition for longer and helps keep maintenance and manufacturing costs low. The Howarth Junior clarinets are pitched in Bb like a standard clarinet and use regular fingerings so a young player can easily progress onto a more advanced model. The instruments are made from the same materials as our Academy clarinet to ensure high-quality and good acoustics. The Howarth Junior clarinets have a Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece to help attach the reed quickly and accurately. They are supplied in a backpack case with cleaning accessories. See page 23 for further details. The vulnerable link mechanism between the top and bottom joints of the Junior MX and Junior PLUS+ clarinets has been removed, making it easier for young children to assemble and disassemble the instrument. The removal of the link mechanism makes the Junior clarinets more durable and easier to maintain compared to standard student models. 22
Howarth SimpleFit Mouthpiece The SimpleFit mouthpiece is an innovative product that allows a student to attach a reed to their clarinet quickly, easily, and accurately. It combines a standard Bb mouthpiece with a specially designed ligature to make a one-piece unit with a channel to hold the reed in the correct place. A student simply needs to slide the reed into position and secure it with the integral thumbnut. Using a Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece allows a student to set up their clarinet independently without help from a teacher. This can promote practice and help motivate the learner who will benefit from a good tone, precise note production and better control of the sound produced from the instrument. The ease with which a student can attach the reed to the Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece can also save a significant amount of time in lessons, which is particularly attractive in a group teaching situation. We make the Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece in our own manufacturing workshops from synthetic materials for durability. It can be thoroughly cleaned to maintain good hygiene and comes with a cap to protect the reed. The Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece is designed to be used with standard Rico by D Addario reeds to ensure optimum placement vertically from the tip of the mouthpiece and horizontally against the side rails. We supply a SimpleFit mouthpiece as standard with all Howarth Junior clarinets (see page 22). However, they can also be purchased separately or as a supplementary option with any Bb clarinet or chalumeau. The SimpleFit mouthpiece is supplied as standard with Howarth Junior clarinets. It can also be suppled as a supplementary option with any Bb clarinet / chalumeau or purchased separately. 23
Howarth Academy Clarinet The Academy clarinet is an ideal instrument for progressing and enthusiastic students. It produces a focussed and full-textured sound and has excellent tuning throughout the clarinet. It is made to a high standard and is great value for money. The body is made from a robust synthetic material that helps keep the weight of the instrument low, making it suitable for those who want a lighter instrument. At just over 700g, it weights up to 100g less than a wooden instrument. It comes with an adjustable thumbrest that allows the student to hold the clarinet in the most comfortable position, a feature that it especially useful for children with smaller hands. Our craftsmen check and play every clarinet before it leaves our workshops and we adjust the keywork to ensure that they keys are sprung to a suitable tension for young players. The ergonomically designed keywork is coated in a generous layer of silver-plate. It is durable and can be easily maintained for reliability, giving the clarinettist a long-lasting instrument. We include a mouthpiece suitable for beginners with every clarinet and this comes with a metal ligature and plastic cap. A Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece can also be used with the Academy clarinet to make attaching the reed easier for a young student. Further information about the SimpleFit mouthpiece can be found on page 23. The Academy clarinet is supplied in a sturdy case to ensure the instrument is well protected. Cleaning materials and a cork grease are also included. Academy Clarinet 17 silver-plated keys Durable synthetic body Adjustable thumbrest Mouthpiece, ligature and cap included The Academy clarinet is supplied with a good quality plastic mouthpiece that is perfect for a beginner. A metal ligature and plastic cap are also included. The Academy clarinet features an adjustable thumbrest to make holding the clarinet more comfortable. 24
The Howarth Junior MX clarinet is designed as a first access instrument. 25 25
Trevor James Alphasax The Alphasax by Trevor James is a saxophone with modified keywork designed for young children to make the instrument lighter to hold and easier to play. It is pitched in the key of Eb, like a traditional alto saxophone, and has a full chromatic range from low C to high D. This allows a student to play up to grade 3 standard using the same fingerings and reeds as a traditional saxophone for easy progression onto a more advanced model. The instrument only has the keys needed in the first stages of learning, and keys such as the low B and Bb have been removed. Two of the left-hand palm keys have also been taken away, leaving only the high D key, the shape of which has been modified to stop it being opened accidentally by small hands. Other keys have been repositioned to make them easier to reach, for example, the right-hand little finger keys. At only 1.86kg in weight the Alphasax is 33% lighter than the traditional alto saxophone. It is supplied in a lightweight moulded case with backpack straps. It comes with a harness strap, mouthpiece, cap, and a single screw ligature. Alphasax Reduced keywork mechanism to make the Alphasax light and simple Pitched in Eb like a standard alto saxophone Uses same fingerings as a standard saxophone Fully chromatic Mouthpiece, reeds and ligature are the same as for a standard alto The key mechanisms have been redesigned to make the instrument easier for young players. The right-hand little finger keys have are more comfortable for small hands to reach. 26
Howarth Saxophones We have developed a range of saxophones to meet our customers expectations of high-quality instruments. They are manufactured using the latest techniques and carefully designed to ensure accuracy and a clean action when playing. The first model in our collection is the Paddington saxophone. It is a gold lacquered alto with high-quality keywork that feels comfortable under the fingers and produces a good tone across the instrument. It is suitable as an entry level and upgrade saxophone. Our more advanced instruments are called Chiltern saxophones, which produce a warm and rich sound offered by vintage instruments. They are available as sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones and come in a range of fashionable colours. The Chiltern saxophones are also elegantly engraved for extra impact. The Howarth saxophones are made from high-quality materials that are durable and easy to maintain. Our technicians carefully check and play each one before they leave our workshops. The instruments are supplied in a sturdy case with a range of accessories including mouthpiece, ligature, cap, cleaning materials and a sling to support the instrument. Paddington Saxophone The Paddington saxophone is a gold lacquer alto. Chiltern Saxophones The Chiltern saxophones come in a range of finishes. They are available as sopranino, soprano, alto with large or small bell, tenor and baritone. 27
Howarth Junior Flute The Junior flute is a great access instrument for young learners. It is a keyless diatonic model that has a similar feel to a folk flute or fife and it is pitched in the key of Eb. The body is shorter than a standard flute to make it more comfortable for young players to hold and the toneholes have been carefully positioned to make the instrument easy for those with small fingers to play. We make the flute in our manufacturing workshops from African Blackwood, which is the same material we use to make our oboes and cors anglais. The wood is durable and gives the flute a mellow tone that we enrich further by undercutting. The instrument has two pieces so that it is quick and easy to assemble with o-rings to form a seal between the headjoint and the main body of the flute. This helps to ensure the maintenance costs for the Junior flute are low. We designed the flute in collaboration with Lambeth Music Service for their whole class ensemble teaching programme called Musitrax. They requested an Eb flute, so the students can learn to play flute, clarinet, and alto saxophone together as a whole class band. They are taught by finger positions (i.e. 1, 2, & 3) as the sounding pitch of the Bb and Eb instruments are the same. 1. Sounding pitch: D Written (Bb): E Written (Eb): B Sounding pitch: C Written (Bb): D Written (Eb): A Sounding pitch: A#/Bb Written (Bb): C Written (Eb): G The Junior flute is supplied in a lightweight case with a cleaning mop included. Junior Eb Flute Keyless diatonic flute Pitched in Eb Fusion fingering between flute and recorder Designed for whole class ensemble teaching Body made from seasoned African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) 28
Curved Head Flute Waveline Flute Straight Head Flute Student Flutes We offer a range of students flutes with different options to match the size requirements of the player. All models below are pitched in the key of C and are supplied in a sturdy case with a cleaning rod. Straight Head Flute This is the standard flute design and is suitable for players who can comfortably hold a full-length instrument in the correct playing position. Beginners and those with small hands should opt for models with closed holes to make the flute easier to play. Many models also have an offset G to help reduce the stretch of the left-hand fingers. Suggested makes to try: Vivace by Kurioshi Trevor James Yamaha Curved Head Flute Curved head flutes are designed to be more comfortable for smaller players as they bring the child s hands closer to their body. Some manufacturers supply both curved and straight headjoints with the flute, making it easy to change to a straight headjoint when the student can hold the full instrument. Suggested makes to try: Vivace by Kurioshi Trevor James Yamaha Waveline Flute Waveline flutes are a patented design by Jupiter. They have a U-shaped headjoint to reduce the distance of the hands from the body, while keeping a traditional flute posture with head and body inline. There are two models of Waveline flute available, which are both are pitched in C. The JFL700WD model is for younger children and has a one-piece body to low D. The JFL700WE flute has a C footjoint and can play the full flute s range. This model is suitable for children aged from seven years old. As the student grows, an extension kit can be purchased for the JFL700WE to change it to a standard student flute. 29
Saxonette The Saxonette is a wooden instrument with a clarinet mouthpiece. The body is like a recorder and it is played with similar fingerings to the German recorder system, which corresponds to a saxophone s basic scale. It is a good stepping stone between the recorder and a single reed instrument as it introduces the skills needed to play the clarinet or saxophone. The instrument is keyless and based on a chalumeau. It is pitched in C and can play just over one chromatic octave with a warm and mellow tone. It has a thick one-piece body made from pear wood, that is light and comfortable to hold. It needs little maintenance, making it perfect for use in a classroom. The Saxonette is supplied with a standard Bb mouthpiece and ligature. It is also possible to use our Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece to make it quicker and easier to attach a reed. More details about the SimpleFit can be found on page 23. The Saxonette is supplied in a soft wrap-around case with cleaning materials. Saxonette German recorder fingerings Played with standard Bb mouthpiece, ligature and reeds Pitched in C One-piece pear wood body Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece can be specified The Saxonette is supplied in a wrap around soft case with accessories including a standard Bb mouthpiece and ligature. It is possible to upgrade the mouthpiece to a Howarth SimpleFit mouthpiece, which simplifies the process of correctly positioning the reed onto the mouthpiece. 30
JFlute Nuvo Instruments Nuvo manufacture a range of lightweight instruments that are particularly well suited to children and young beginners. They are made from lightweight ABS plastic resin and are extremely durable, making them a popular choice for use in the classroom. They are 100% waterproof so they can be washed frequently. Nuvo instruments are all pitched in the key of C, allowing them all to be played together or as an interesting addition to a recorder ensemble. A selection of colours are available. Nuvo Flutes Nuvo make a flute suitable for children aged 4 10 years old called the jflute. It features a fully adjustable curved headjoint and a mini foot joint to reduce the length of the instrument, making it more comfortable for young players to hold. The jflute also has extended keys for the left hand so those with small hands can reach the keys more easily. It is played using standard fingerings and can play chromatically from low D. It is supplied as a one-piece unit that can be played straight from the case with no assembly needed. An Upgrade Kit can be purchased to transform the jflute into a Nuvo Student Flute as the student gets older. This contains a straight headjoint, a C footjoint and an insert for the case to fit the new shape. The Student flute is a standard instrument and can be used in the same situations as other traditional student models. It weighs just over half the weight of a metal flute making it suitable for young learners wanting a lighter instrument. Both flutes have an easy-blowing lip plate that helps to produce a smooth and resonant tone. The flutes also come with a firstnote lip plate, like a recorder mouthpiece, to help students produce notes straight away, while training them to blow across the instrument. The flutes are supplied in a lightweight case with cleaning accessories. Colours available for jflute: black with steel collar, white with blue collar, white with green collar, white with pink collar. Colours available for student flute: black with steel collar, blue with black keywork, green with black keywork, pink with black keywork. The flutes are supplied with a standard lip plate and a firstnote lip plate, which helps students produce a sound from the beginning. 31
Clarinéo JSax Nuvo Clarine o The Clarinéo is designed for beginners aged from four years old. It is smaller and lighter than a standard Bb clarinet with smaller toneholes to make it easier for young children to play. It is played using standard clarinet fingerings to make it easy for progression onto the full instrument. It can play three and a half octaves fully chromatically. The Clarinéo has a special mouthpiece with an integrated guide to help students fit the reed correctly. It also has a clip-on ligature to help simplify setting-up the mouthpiece. The Clarinéo comes with two synthetic reeds and a traditional cane Eb reed and is supplied in a lightweight case with cleaning accessories included. Colours available for Clarinéo: black with silver trim, white with blue trim, white with green trim, white with pink trim. Nuvo jsax The jsax is the perfect instrument for young children who want to play the saxophone but are not ready for the size and weight of a metal instrument. It is played using a fusion of saxophone and recorder fingerings and it enables children to develop skills that can be transferred onto a full-size saxophone, such as breathing and forming the embouchure. The jsax is suitable for students with small hands. It is possible to play the instrument open-holed or with the optional key-caps to minimise the distance between the fingers. It produces a mellow sound and can play chromatically from middle C to G in the next octave, when played without the key-caps. Nuvo produce a separate Straighten your jsax kit that consists of a straight neck and bell to change the shape of the instrument from curved to straight. Some older students and adults may find this more comfortable to play. The jsax is played using Nuvo synthetic reeds or cane Eb clarinet reeds. Some soprano saxophone mouthpieces can also be used. It is supplied in a durable moulded case with a fingering chart. Colours available for jsax: black with black trim, black with blue trim, black with green trim, black with pink trim, white with blue trim, white with green trim, white with pink trim. 32
DooD TooT Nuvo DooD The DooD is the perfect stepping stone between a recorder and clarinet as it introduces the skills needed to play a single-reed instrument, such as forming the embouchure, tonguing and breathing. It is a small instrument played with a Clarinéo mouthpiece and recorder-like fingerings. It can play one octave chromatically plus a few extra notes in the second register. It has a simple and durable key system that allows smaller children to cover the holes comfortably and an adjustable thumbrest to allow good hand position. The DooD comes with two synthetic reeds featuring a guide to help with accurate placement onto the mouthpiece. It can also be played with a cane Eb clarinet reed. It is supplied in a soft case with a fingering chart included. Colours available for DooD: black with black trim, black with blue trim, black with green trim, black with pink trim, white with blue trim, white with green trim, white with pink trim. Nuvo TooT The TooT is a great access instrument onto the flute. It is small and light and can play just over an octave chromatically using recorder fingerings, allowing a student to play simple tunes while learning posture, fingering and embouchure. The thick-bodied instrument is comfortable for smaller hands to hold. It has a scalloped recess at the back of the instrument to help with correct placement of the thumb as well as indents over the toneholes to make it easier to position the fingers. The tone hole for the right-hand little finger key is raised to make it easier to reach. The TooT is supplied with two lip plates. One is shaped the same as a standard flute and is easy blowing. Nuvo s patented FirstNote lip plate is also included, this allows students to play notes immediately while training them to blow across the instrument. The TooT is supplied in a soft case with a fingering chart. 33
London Showrooms 31 Chiltern Street, London, W1U 7PN, UK Education Department 19 Buckingham Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 1TH, UK education@howarth.uk.com howarth.uk.com H-EB18-01