Rath Trombones Marks 30th Years

Rath Trombones is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The company is marking three decades of producing hand-crafted trombones in the U.K.

“I’m so grateful to customers who have supported us down the years,” said Michael Rath, founder and research and development technician at Rath Trombones. “It’s so heartwarming to see Rath Trombones performed all over the world in everything from symphony orchestras to brass and military bands, as well as pop, funk and commercial music. I’m very proud that Rath Custom trombones have been produced by our team in Yorkshire, which continues to grow, while maintaining the high standards and attention to detail for which Rath has become so well known. I know the company can look forward to a very bright future indeed.”

Company founder Rath began his professional career as an apprentice with Paxman Musical Instruments in London, the renowned manufacturer of French horns. After nine years honing his skills, he opened his own brass instrument shop in West Yorkshire, specializing in repairs and customization. His clientele grew to include professional musicians, particularly trombonists, from throughout Europe. In 1995, British jazz trombonist Mark Nightingale asked Michael to create a bespoke instrument. This tenor instrument became the first Rath trombone and in 1996, Rath Trombones was established.

In January 2024, Rath Trombones was acquired by John Packer Musical Instruments and its managing director, Rob Hanson. The agreement sees JP Musical Instruments look after marketing, distribution and logistics for the Yorkshire-based business, while retaining Rath’s focus as a maker of outstanding, bespoke trombones, the choice of leading symphonic, commercial and studio trombonists all over the world. The Rath Trombones shop is located in Honley, Huddersfield in West Yorkshire. The team in Honley has grown to 12 people, with several having been part of the team for a considerable part of its history, including sales manager Tim Sidwell and production manager Tom Wellings involved for around 20 years each. {rathtrombones.com}