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Woodwind Awards 2025
27th December 2025Celebrating the Best in Woodwind for 2025
Each year, we take time to reflect on the instruments, accessories and innovations that have genuinely stood out in our woodwind department. The Woodwind Awards 2025 are chosen based on highlights, excellence in manufacturing, and products that have truly impressed us on the shop floor.
🏆 Best Premium Instrument
Wood Stone Super Custom Alto Saxophone
A standout choice for 2025, the WoodStone Super Custom Alto Saxophone is a beautifully crafted instrument that continues to impress from every angle. Handmade in Japan at the Ishimori factory, availability is limited. This is a direct result of the time, detail and care that goes into each instrument.
Inspired by the classic Selmer Mk VI, this model offers a familiar yet refined playing experience. From a workshop perspective, WoodStone saxophones are a dream: minimal setup required, exceptional consistency, and rarely seen back for repairs. That level of reliability speaks volumes about the production process and attention to detail. Checkout the video below to hear the saxophone in action:
🏆 Best Value Instrument
The Miyazawa MJ II 25E flute earns its place as Best Value by offering an accessible entry point into one of the most respected flute makers. Ideal for advancing players looking to upgrade, this model delivers Miyazawa’s renowned craftsmanship, responsiveness and tonal clarity at a more approachable level.
For more information on upgrading your flute, read our blog below:
🏆 Best New Product
Backun Alpha Bass Clarinets (Low C & Low Eb)
Backun’s expansion into more affordable bass clarinets has been one of the most exciting developments of the year. By offering their Alpha range of models down to low C, Backun has opened up the bass clarinet range to a far wider group of players – not just professional orchestral musicians.
With multiple models and finishes available across Backun’s prestigious bass clarinets, both Alpha and Q-Series, there’s genuine flexibility depending on playing needs and budget. The level of detail and thoughtful design makes these instruments well worth exploring further. For a detailed guide into both ranges, take a look at our blog below:
🏆 Best Accessory
Vandoren VK Synthetic Reeds (Clarinet & Saxophone)
The Vandoren VK range are the latest in the innovative world of synthetic reeds – a modern solution for players who want reliability without compromise. These recyclable synthetic reeds are available for classical clarinet and both classical and jazz saxophone, offering consistency and flexibility straight out of the box – no soaking required.
They’re ideal for players who need to be ready to play at a moment’s notice, such as orchestral, pit, touring musicians. A video demonstration by Thom Conroy gives you a full insight into their sound, with a blog below for a pocket guide to the latest in synthetic reeds.
Final Thoughts
Our Woodwind Awards 2025 celebrate products we truly believe in. Come along, try them in store, and find the right fit for your playing.