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How to Sell Your Woodwind or Brass Instrument
If you’re looking to sell a quality used Woodwind & Brass instrument we may be able to help. We offer three main ways to sell your instrument via Dawkes:
- Commission Sale
- Part-Exchange
- Buy-In
In this blog we’re primarily giving information about our Commission Sale process which is our main option. However, we do also offer part-exchange and straight buy-ins occasionally if it’s a very popular model (and depending on our stock). Part-exchange values are given in-store so we would recommend booking a visit to see us and try out new gear to trade your instrument against.
Upgrading Your Clarinet: Selmer Prologue & Presence
When it comes to upgrading from a student clarinet, or even choosing your very first wooden instrument, two names in the Selmer range stand out: the Prologue and the Presence. Both are beautifully designed wooden clarinets with features that make them ideal stepping stones at different stages of your musical journey.
We spoke with Selmer clarinet product manager Stéphane Gentil, Dawkes’ head technician Abi Taylor, and professional player Hannah Shilvock to find out what makes these models so special.
Back to School: Picking Up Your Woodwind Instrument After a Break
As the new school year begins, the music bags are being dusted off and practice routines are starting up again. Whether you’re a student returning back to school or an adult player getting back into the swing after some time away, picking up your Woodwind instrument after a break can seem a challenge, but easing yourself (and your instrument!) back in carefully makes all the difference.
Understanding Brass Mouthpieces: A Beginner’s Guide
by Matt Sanders (Dawkes Brass Specialist)
All brass players wonder at one time or another whether or not making a change to their mouthpiece will help. Could it give them more range, more volume or a bigger sound? A change in the mouthpiece can yield fantastic results to the player. You can achieve faster, higher and louder from just a small change.
This beginner’s guide to understanding brass mouthpieces will walk you through the golden rules of choosing the right mouthpiece and explain what all the technical details really mean. We spoke to trombonist Christopher Bill, who shared insights into his current setup using Denis Wick products – and why your own setup can make such a big difference to your playing.
Exploring Selmer Paris’ Professional Clarinets
with Hannah Shilvock, Stéphane Gentil, and Abi Taylor
In our recent video, clarinetist Hannah Shilvock joined Selmer Paris product manager Stéphane Gentil and our head technician Abi Taylor are exploring four of Selmer Paris’ professional clarinets: the Recital, Signature, Privilege, and Muse. Together, they offered a combination of performer insight and technical expertise – discussing design history, acoustic goals, and the Hannah’s personal experience for each model.
Saxophone Fingerings: A Complete Guide to Alternatives
These are some of saxophonist Preston Cummins’ most frequently used alternative fingerings, selected for their practicality, tuning flexibility, and tonal versatility. In his accompanying video, Preston demonstrates each option – including side Bb, side C, alternate G# positions, and venting techniques – so you can both see and hear how they work in context.
This complete guide to alternatives serves as a written reference to those saxophone fingerings, helping you apply them more confidently in your own playing.
A View from the Bench
By Abi Taylor, Head Technician
In collaboration with the British Double Reed Society, their Spring 2025 edition for ‘Double Reed News’ features Abi Taylor, our Head Technician, who offers a personal look into life at the repair bench. “A View From the Bench” shares insights into the craft that keeps our instruments – and performances – in top form.
Exploring Extended Techniques on the Flute
The flute is often associated with elegance, clarity, and soaring melodies – but there’s a whole world beyond the standard classical tone. Extended techniques push the boundaries of what the flute can do, opening up an exciting palette of sounds and effects. Whether you’re a curious student, a composer, or a flautist looking to expand your expressive range, these techniques offer new ways to interact with your instrument.
Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting extended techniques, and listen to Thom Conroy’s amazing demonstrations!
Vandoren VK Synthetic Reeds
Vandoren’s VK synthetic reeds are the result of seven years of research and development in France. The VK line offers a synthetic, fully recyclable alternative to cane reeds, crafted from a composite material. Designed to closely replicate the acoustic qualities of natural cane, they provide the durability and consistency players have long wished for, without sacrificing tone, response, or feel.
Caring for Your Single Reeds: Essential Tips for Clarinet and Saxophone Players
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, caring for your single reeds will extend the life of your favourites and provide the best performance. Good reed maintenance not only saves you money, it ensures your playing stays consistent, smooth, and expressive. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get the most from your clarinet or saxophone reeds.
Finding Your Musical Voice
Five Steps to Make Your Playing Truly Yours
In the world of instrumental playing, it’s easy to get caught up in perfecting the technical aspects – clean articulation, accurate intonation, and solid rhythm. But great players don’t just play the notes – they say something with them. Finding your musical voice is about making your playing unmistakably you. It’s a lifelong journey, but here are five steps to help you start carving out your unique sound, inspired by brass supremo Christopher Bill.
