A LEADING retailer of musical instruments in Wellington, which will celebrate its half-century this year, has taken over another leading company.

John Packer Musical Instruments (JPMI), which is also a manufacturer, has acquired specialist UK brass instrument maker, Taylor Trumpets.

The acquisition comes after JJPMI previously announced the purchase of Michael Rath Trombones earlier in 2024 and signifies the latest step in the “evolution” of the firm, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Founder Andy Taylor will remain with the business, continuing to share his expertise in instrument design. It is the latest chapter in a career which has spanned 50 years, 15 of which saw him working for Paxman Horns before spending the past 35 years developing Taylor Trumpets.

Rob Hanson, director of John Packer Musical Instruments, commented: “Welcoming Taylor Trumpets to the stable at John Packer Musical Instruments is a very natural step in the evolution of the relationship between the companies, one which stretches back to when we started working together on the extremely popular JP By Taylor collaboration.

“Trumpets have a stellar reputation for making outstanding instruments with great tone, playability, build quality and design. That is testament to Andy Taylor’s immeasurable talent as an instrument maker and designer. We’re delighted that he will remain with the company, striving for the highest standards while enabling customers all over the world to continue enjoying his beautiful creations.”

Andy Taylor, founder of Taylor Trumpets, commented: “The development of Taylor Trumpets has proved that we can push the boundaries of trumpet making further than most, offering custom instruments that sound magnificent and stand out in a crowd. 

“The acquisition of Taylor Trumpets by John Packer Musical Instruments is the latest chapter in a successful relationship which started out with the popular JP By Taylor idea.

“I know Rob Hanson will continue to hold dear the values of high quality, skilled craftsmanship, while helping Taylor Trumpets reach new audiences all over the world.”

More information on the products and services on offer from JP Musical Instruments is at: jpmusicalinstruments.com