Mick Rath recently spent some time in the John Packer factory putting into place the final pieces of their latest project.
Success
Following the enormous success of the collaboration between John Packer Ltd and Richard Smith (Smith-Watkins) on trumpets and cornets, Packers have now moved the spotlight onto a new trombone.
Guru
Mick Rath is known around the world as being something of a guru on trombone manufacture and design.
Mick brought all his experience to bear on the creation of a new instrument with a very high performance level with equally high build quality that could be sold at the price of a student model.
The result is an instrument with a build quality and performance that is unrivalled in its price rangeJohn Packer
Design
This wasn't simply a technical exercise in the theory of trombone design. Mick worked with John Packer technicians from the ground up giving advice and demonstrations about each element of construction.
The bells and slides are made using the same methods as Mick's own professional models and incorporate high grade brass.
The result is an instrument with a build quality and performance that is unrivalled in its price range.
Legendary
The legendary Erling Kroner tried the first one off the production line at the recent International Trombone Festival in Denmark.
This is what he said on the Trombone Forum: "Here's my comment on it: Student horn, they call it. To me it outplays a modern Bach 36. Very nice horn — like a slightly lighter version of my formidable Mt Vernon 36 and 34. I can fully endorse it — after 10 minutes — as a great, professional horn. Well worth its price — whatever that is."
Brilliant price
It was so new that the price hadn't been finalised at the festival, but the UK price is £299 excluding vat.
Incredible
Mark Nightingale, acclaimed trombone virtuoso, also tried it at the Festival and observed: "An incredible trombone for the price. Free and easy to blow over the entire range."
More information
Not a bad price for an instrument that bears comparison with trombones that have long held the high ground in professional circles.
For more information about the JP Rath trombone call 01823 282386.
