Renowned UK musical instrument manufacturer Michael Rath Trombones has won a prestigious award for its work to support disabled performers.
The Yorkshire firm, which builds and exports its bespoke, custom-made trombones all over the world, recently received a One Hand Musical Instrument (OHMI) Trust Award for its pioneering work to support a longtime customer, enabling him to play the trombone again after a severe stroke in 2017 had left him with left arm paralysis.
Northern Ireland-based brass educator and freelance trombonist, Willie McLean – who commissioned the Rath Custom R2 trombone in 2020, with funding support from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland – performed at the awards night in Birmingham City University and received the award on Rath Trombones’ behalf from event host, pop star Toyah Willcox.
Willie said: “I was completely overjoyed when Mick Rath’s name was called, and I was proud to accept the award on his behalf.
“Rath Trombones are beautiful instruments, and I am so thankful that Mick’s ingenious design has enabled me to do what I love once again.”
Rath Trombones was one of the award winners in the Enabling Equipment category, which celebrates apparatus that makes a traditional instrument playable for a specified disability.
The Rath model prepared for Willie features a stainless-steel bracket, which clamps easily to the main bell stay of the trombone using two hexagonal head screws.
A clearance hole through the centre of the main head of the bracket allows the trombone to slide comfortably over the stand spindle. This is attached to an adapted heavy-duty cymbal stand, and ensures the trombone is at the correct angle for the player. Height and angle are adjustable.
OHMI general manager Rachel Wolffsohn said: “So many disabled people look to OHMI for support. For musicians who have acquired an upper limb impairment or disability through illness or accident, this often comes at an incredibly upsetting and unsettling time.
“We’re deeply humbled that so many travelled so far to join us – including from the US, Japan and Australia – and some at significant personal expense. That illustrates how many people valued the opportunity to meet with others and to share experiences amongst what is a truly unique group.”
For more information on Michael Rath Trombones, and to find your nearest Rath Trombones dealer, go to: rathtrombones.com.
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