Proel North America proudly announces the introduction of Ida Maria Grassi wind instruments to the United States and Canada, marking a significant milestone in the Italian company’s commitment to delivering exceptional musical instruments to musicians worldwide. Rooted in a rich history of tradition, innovation, and female entrepreneurship, Ida Maria Grassi instruments epitomize the harmony of Italian ingenuity and design
The story of Ida Maria Grassi wind instruments traces back to 1945 post-war Italy, where the brand’s journey began in a humble garage on Via Dezza in Milan. It was here that Ida Maria Grassi, a groundbreaking female instrument maker with a dream, started crafting flutes and piccolos characterized by a distinguished Italian style. In a remarkable development, these instruments swiftly captured the attention of musicians, propelling Ida Maria Grassi to establish a factory in Cinisello Balsamo.
Ida Maria Grassi’s passions then expanded to the realm of saxophones. In the late 1950s, during a period of great economic challenges, numerous skilled craftsmen from a struggling saxophone factory sought employment with Ida Maria. Grassi seized an opportunity to expand her vision, prompting the establishment of a second Grassi factory in Piedmont, Italy, which not only realized her entrepreneurial ambition and also provided economic stability to the musical craftsmen in the region.
Despite the many challenges of her growing start-up, including the pervasive gender-biases of the time, Ida Maria Grassi persevered. Through dedication, hard work, and leadership her brand gained international renown, becoming a symbol of quality wind instruments crafted in Italy. As Ida Maria Grassi once remarked, “I was able to craft quality wind instruments with an Italian mark, in Italy and abroad, and I believe I can be proud of that.”
The legacy of Ida Maria Grassi lives on as part of the Proel family of Italian brands, through a commitment to continuous innovation and global distribution. Each instrument undergoes meticulous refinement, combining today’s manufacturing advancements with the expertise of designers and master craftsmen to meet the demanding expectations of high quality and performance by today’s students, teachers, and performers.
“Proel North America is honored to bring Ida Maria Grassi wind instruments to our dealer and artist network across the United States and Canada,” said Antonio Ferranti, President at Proel North America. “The legacy of Ida Maria Grassi embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and passion for music and music education that resonates with everyone who learns about this remarkable and historic Italian brand.”
From the aspiring player to the professional musician, Grassi produces a wide range of woodwind and brass wind instruments in two series (Student Series, and Master Series) to include: Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Cornet, Flugelhorn, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba; and each bearing the hallmark of excellence synonymous with the brand. And for the discerning saxophone professional, Grassi offers the exceptional Accademia Series.
Each and every Grassi wind instrument offers the perfect blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and design that elevates musical and artistic expression. Music dealers, teachers, and parents will be pleased with the industry-leading 4-Years Warranty that backs each Grassi wind instrument sold.
Grassi Wind Instruments were first showcased in North America at the 2024 NAMM Show and will be available to the Proel North America network of dealers in the USA and Canada starting April 1, 2024.
For more information about Ida Maria Grassi wind instruments including pricing, and to explore the complete Proel North America product catalog, please visit https://www.proelnorthamerica.com/collections/wind-instruments
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