- Vanguard In Auckland With Jenny Weigel
- Sylvester Green – Our Brass Expert
- James Morrison Schagerl Trumpets Back In And Reviewed
- So Many Pre-Loved Instruments
- Festivals Are Coming Up
- Marmaduke Neck Straps New Product
It’s so good to do these newsletters periodically; it keeps our customers informed, and allows us look back on our milestones. 2025 Feels like a year of embracing change for our small business. That can feel like a challenging choice sometimes, but it also ensures we can be fluid and have the space to move and change. This is what 2025 will be about; it does feel exciting!
Vanguard In Auckland With Jenny Weigel
We’re excited to share some big news—Vanguard Orchestral is expanding back into Auckland! We’ve built a reputation accross New Zealand for top-quality instrument servicing, and now we’re bringing that same care and expertise to musicians in the Auckland region again.
Our new Auckland workshop will be led by Jenny Weigel, an experienced technician known for her skill and dedication. Jenny has been in Auckland for years and is well respected and relied on by the community. With this expansion, we’re continuing our mission to support New Zealand’s music community with outstanding, personalised service.
Sylvester Green On Brass
If you have been into the Wellington shop on a Saturday recently you will have probably met Sylvester.
Sylvester is a busy musician, playing with multiple groups and taking on personal projects. He has recently enjoyed playing with the Rodger Fox Big Band, Cinematic Light Orchestra, Harrison Scholes Big Band, and Capital City Big Band.
Sylvester is working Saturdays and several hours during the week around the shop and trying his hand at some brass repair tasks as time and his studies allow. If you want to talk trumpet mouthpiece cup sizes, he is probably your guy!
James Morrison Schagerl Trumpets
Recently we received the James Morrison Schagerl JM1 and JM2 trumpets back in stock and have been reminded how good they are as a semi-professional trumpet choice. Sylvester has put them to the test and written a comparison post. Take a look at his article below and the video of him playing the two.
- Sylvester’s article on the comparison
- Check out the JM1 and JM2 on our website
- James Morrison’s video on the JM1 and the JM2
So Many Pre-Loved Instruments In Store …
We have so many pre-loved instruments and mouthpieces in the shop right now. Our website is always a good place to watch if you’re after a professional horn at a price much less than new. Some examples are below but there are many on the site here.
Festivals Are Coming Up
Some great music festivals are just around the corner.
- The New Zealand Concert Band National Festival 2025 will be held in the Alan Gibbs Centre at Wellington College on 18th-20th of July.
- The 15th Hamilton Flute Festival will be held at Fairfield Intermediate Auditorium on 12th -13th of July.
- The 2025 Festival of Brass will be held at the Christchurch Town Hall complex on 2nd-6th of July
It can be well worth planning ahead and making sure your instrument is up to the challenge. A regular service ensures you won’t miss a beat!
Marmaduke Straps – New Product in Store
Marmaduke is a Tokyo-based Japanese manufacturer renowned for its innovative saxophone and woodwind straps, particularly the acclaimed Feather Strap series. Founded in 2013 by designer Alex Miyatake, Marmaduke revolutionized traditional neck straps by introducing ergonomic shoulder and back support systems that significantly reduce neck strain and enhance playing comfort.
Marmaduke straps are distinguished by their use of high-quality materials, including pure brass hooks for optimal resonance and durable cords tested to withstand up to 200 kg of force. The designs prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, featuring adjustable aluminum bars and genuine leather construction.
Endorsed by prominent saxophonists such as Mark Turner, Ben Wendel, and Melissa Aldana, Marmaduke has established itself as a trusted name among professionals worldwide.
