Mrs B is a very lucky girl. Not only does she have a fantastically generous, handsome and of course modest husband ;-0 but she also has a habit of winning competitions. Computers, TV’s, subscriptions – she has won them all in the time we have been together. However her latest win is something that she really really wanted… and is British made.
Last weekend we went to visit Pilgrim Harps in South Godstone, Kent. Emily knows of this instrument maker of old as she learnt to play the harp, on an instrument hired from them, many moons ago. Unfortunately she was forced to give up this much loved past time but all the time I have known her has hankered after getting back on a harp again. However, with prices starting at £2500 it is an expense too far for us.
Our visit to Pilgrim coincided with their open day in which we undertook a tour of their manufacturing facilities. Founded in 1980, they produce fantastic quality and rather beautiful harps – from the large gilt concert instruments you maybe familiar with to smaller Celtic harps that are a little more practical for the casual player. Emily really was like a kid in a candy store as we walked around their facilities and she and Lucan played the instruments. There was even something to hold my interest, as they had an impressive collection of old woodworking tools and machinery.
Anyway, on our way out the door Emily completed a form to win 3 months harp hire and thought nothing more of it. That is until later in the week when she got the call saying that she had won. A rather stunning celtic harp now had temporary pride of place in our living room… along with our piano, cello, violin, 6 guitars and numerous amps. Needless to say, a harp does nothing for the space limitations of our house!
We are always interested to hear of any instrument makers in the UK but sadly they are few and far between. A special mention must be given to Cavendish pianos. The UK’s only remaining piano maker. Please vote for them in the Classic FM best Acoustic Piano Awards here.
However, if you know of any instruments makers in the UK please leave a comment.
– James
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Hansons clarinet company in Marsden West Yorkshire. Beautiful instruments and fabulous service which is second to none. Find them here….http://www.hansonclarinets.com/Hanson_Clarinet_Company._Making_Music_in_Great_Britain./About_us.html
J White Workshop is great for guitars, they are in Ash Vale, Hampshire – http://www.jwhite-guitarworkshops.co.uk/
Clarkes still make kazoos!
Stumbled across this company http://www.carreradrums.com
Premier still make drums in the uk.http://www.premier-percussion.com/