World’s First Plastic Trombone Receives Highest Royal Accolade For Innovation As Brass Makes A Comeback
The company credited with a resurgence in playing brass instruments, especially in schools and bands, has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation. It is the highest commendation for innovation and recognises the team of British musicians, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts who conceived the idea of developing the world’s first plastic trombone – which has since become the world’s bestselling trombone.
Many music industry experts say that the development of pBone, manufactured in recyclable ABS plastic, is the reason for a 15% increase in worldwide sales of trombones in the past three years
Warwick Music Group has now sold more than a quarter of a million of its pBone instruments - conceived by former engineering student and musician Hugh Rashleigh while studying at Loughborough University. In 2007, he turned to both Steven Greenall - owner of a small Coventry-based music publishing business, Warwick Music - and Chris Fower for his instrumental design and education expertise.
Since first going on sale in late 2010, pBone has become the largest-selling trombone worldwide. Retailers report that 80% of trombones sold are now manufactured in plastic.
Steven Greenall, chief executive of Warwick Music Group, said this was a proud moment for a small business that had proved that anything was possible. “Our aim was simple – to create a quality instrument that made the joy of music accessible and fun, to help more people to enjoy making music together – and to be able to start at whatever age they might choose. That is what drives us. Quite simply we want to see more children playing and is a time when budgets are tight, that and needs innovative approach.
“As a team of British musicians, we knew that traditional brass instruments are heavy, costly – and easily damaged. We knew too that sales of traditional brass instruments were declining, and that bands and orchestras worldwide were reporting a shortage of brass players.
“So we set out to do something about it. pBone was the start but without it, we could not have developed other instruments that are also proving popular especially amongst young people. These include pTrumpet, pCornet and pBuzz – a new instrument designed specifically for children as young as three to enable them to start their brass playing journey.
“The innovation of pBone has helped to introduce a new generation to the joy of music, as well as the educational and social benefits that music brings.
“We believe in the transformational power of music and that everyone should have the opportunity to make music. By thinking differently, we have made a real difference in the world; we are delighted that the passion, creativity and hard work of our small team has been recognised.” Ten people are based at Warwick Music Group’s head office near Tamworth with additional team members in the USA and Asia.
Now in its 53rd year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the country which, recognise outstanding achievements by UK businesses in four categories: International Trade, Sustainable Development, Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility) and innovation.
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