About John Packer Instruments

Rob Hanson - Managing Director, John Packer Instruments
A globally recognised specialist in designing and manufacturing brass & woodwind instruments
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In 1978, upon completing his apprenticeship with the famous oboe makers Howarth of London, John moved back to the west of England and opened his retail and repair shop. His first instrument, the 'Portland' oboe was launched in 1999. John Packer Ltd became well known in the UK and across the world for its expertise and great customer service, allowing staff and the range of JP brand instruments to grow.
With a loyal team passionate about music, the company has evolved from a small specialist retail store to a global brand recognised in 45 countries with more than 250 thousand instruments in circulation around the world.
Our collaborations with other prestigious makers makes us stand out
John Packer have long collaborated with Dr. Richard Smith of Smith-Watkins, Taylor Trumpets and RATH Trombones, who have provided design input to provide unique playing characteristics in the range. Paul Riggett, ex Boosey and Hawkes, has also provided his expertise in the design and production of the Sterling series.
In 2024, John Packer Musical Instruments took ownership of RATH and Taylor, further cementing their reputation for the highest quality in design and innovation, as well as manufacturing and production quality control.
With a global dealer distribution network over 45 countries, JP Musical Instruments has established themselves as a preeminent supplier of student and intermediate brass and woodwind instruments to the education service, bands and professional players from Taunton to Tonga, Portland to Poland and Ireland to Iceland.
Their passion and commitment to customer service and longevity are paramount to our success and growth. All instruments are guaranteed by a comprehensive warranty and parts are available for local repairers and service centres.
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John Packer Musical Instruments were awarded the Kings Award for Enterprise in 2025, having won the Queens Award in 2018.
