Kunath

Kunath Instrumentenbau – new ideas for woodwind instruments

Kunath Instrumentenbau explores how traditional woodwind instruments can be developed further through new construction concepts. This approach is particularly visible in its recorders and related instruments. Alongside traditional materials, Kunath uses specially developed materials and modern manufacturing processes. The range extends from compact instruments for beginners to exceptional bass recorders in very low registers. This gives Kunath interesting solutions for lessons, ensembles, consorts and professional musical applications.

Clarineau – recorder-style fingering with a single reed

The Kunath Clarineaus combine recorder-like fingering with sound production using a single reed and corresponding mouthpiece. At Kirstein, the range includes Pocket-Clarineau and Clarineau models with German or Baroque double-hole fingering as well as versions with an extended range and additional keys. The instruments are made from impregnated pearwood. This concept can be particularly interesting for players who are already familiar with recorder fingering and want to approach the sound production used on clarinet or saxophone.

sigo – recorders with a folded bore

With sigo, Kunath deliberately takes a different approach from recorder designs based directly on historical models. Developed together with recorder maker Geri Bollinger, the series uses a specially curved, folded bore. This allows a lower register to be achieved in a more compact body. The sigo tenor, for example, offers a finger stretch close to that of a soprano recorder. An angled headjoint and integrated thumb rest additionally support an ergonomic playing position.

sigo instruments are made from RESONA, a material developed by Kunath for woodwind instrument making from fine wood particles and plant-based binders. In addition to tenor models, the family also includes F-alto and F-bass recorders. The sigo range is therefore aimed at players looking for a modern alternative to conventional recorder construction with compact dimensions and a distinctive ergonomic concept.

Paetzold by Kunath – square bass recorders

Another unusual product family is Paetzold by Kunath. It is based on the square bass recorders developed by Herbert Paetzold. After Kunath Instrumentenbau took over the workshop in 2012, the concept was developed further and expanded with additional registers. Today, the family extends from tenor and basset through great bass and contrabass to exceptionally low sub-bass and sub-contrabass variants. A sub-sub-great bass recorder is also part of the programme.

MASTER and SOLO

Paetzold by Kunath currently distinguishes between two central model ranges. MASTER instruments are made from birch plywood and continue the characteristic square construction. The SOLO Series, by contrast, is produced from RESONA using 3D printing. This manufacturing method makes it possible to create significantly lighter instruments, particularly in the larger bass sizes. The most suitable version therefore depends not only on register and ensemble role, but also on personal preferences regarding weight, material and playing feel.

Which Kunath instrument suits which application?

For an introduction to a reed-based woodwind instrument, Clarineau models can provide an interesting bridge from familiar recorder fingering to playing with a single reed. The sigo range is aimed at recorder players looking for an ergonomically compact design in alto, tenor or bass registers. Paetzold by Kunath becomes particularly relevant when low voices are required in a recorder ensemble or consort. With large bass recorders in particular, register, playing position, weight and transport requirements should be considered together.

Buy Kunath at Kirstein

Kunath stands for unconventional solutions within the recorder and woodwind world. From compact Clarineaus and modern sigo instruments to the low Paetzold by Kunath bass recorders, the brand demonstrates different ways of developing traditional instrument principles further. At Kirstein, you can find selected Kunath instruments and also benefit from a 3 Year Kirstein Warranty and, when required, knowledgeable specialist advice on recorders and woodwind instruments.