GENERAL QUESTIONS

Does Sonaré Winds ever provide clinics at local venues?
Yes. As part of Sonaré’s mission to stimulate musical growth in local communities, we sponsor and co-sponsor events at many colleges and music stores. To request an event in your area, please visit our Educators page for more information or e-mail Corey Livingston at clivingston@powellflutes.com

Can I request a catalog or more information be sent to me about Sonaré Winds or Blessing Brass Instruments?
Yes. Please email Corey Livingston at clivingston@powellflutes.com and provide your name and mailing address.

Can I purchase a Sonaré or Blessing instrument directly from you?
We do not sell direct to customers and all of our instruments are available through our extensive dealer network. To find a dealer near you click here.

Can I visit Sonaré Winds’ factory and test instruments?
Sonaré Winds is not open to public visits at this time. If you would like to play test any Sonaré instruments, please contact your local dealer.

Can I visit the Blessing Brass factory and test instruments?
Blessing brass is not open to public visits at this time.  We will be moving facilities within the next few months and once we have settled in our new facilities we will be happy to welcome visitors. If you would like to play test any Blessing instruments, please contact your local dealer.

WARRANTY

What is the warranty for Sonaré Flutes and Trumpets?
Sonaré warrants that your instrument will be free of manufacturing defects for the initial 12 months from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover damage to your Sonaré instrument caused by normal use and wear and tear, or resulting from misuse, improper care, accidents or unauthorized repair service. Please see the warranty card included with your instrument for more details.

What should I do if I believe that my instrument has a manufacturing defect and is still covered under warranty?
Please contact the dealer where you purchased the instrument. They will evaluate it and contact us if needed.

PRODUCT QUESTIONS

Flutes & Piccolos

What are the benefits of the new 600 and 700 models of Sonaré flutes?
Each of the Sonaré 600 and 700 series flutes come standard with a hand-cut Powell Signature headjoint, which accounts for much of the actual sound of the instrument. They each also have a sterling silver body made in the USA by Powell, with the modern Powell scale.

For Sonaré Flutes, what are the new model numbers and how do they correspond to the old models?
Recently we have changed the model numbers on our step-up flutes. The chart below should help explain the differences in model numbers.

*Previously only available in Asia

At what pitch are Sonaré flute and piccolos made?
A=442

Where are Sonaré flutes made?
All Sonaré flutes feature a handmade Signature headjoint made in Maynard, Massachusetts by Verne Q. Powell Flutes, Inc.

The bodies of the 600 and 700 series flutes are also built by Powell Flutes in Maynard. The 600 and 700 series flutes are strung and finished by our partner.

Do all Sonaré step-up flutes have a hand-cut headjoint? And what is the benefit of that?
Yes! All Sonaré flutes feature a Powell Signature hand-cut headjoint. The headjoint of a flute provides at least 50% of the sound of the instrument. Providing a Powell hand-cut headjoint on Sonaré flutes offers the player more flexibility of tone quality and ease of playing.

Trumpet

Where are the Sonaré trumpets made?
Sonaré trumpets are made in Germany. The leadpipes are made by Cliff Blackburn in his workshop in Decatur, Tennessee. All Sonaré trumpets are final tested by Sonaré Winds in Maynard, MA prior to shipping.

What is the MicroLok™ Valve Guide System that is used on Sonaré trumpets?
The MicroLok™ valve system was co-invented by Cliff Blackburn and Steven Wasser and is used in all Sonaré trumpets. During the production process, a custom made tool sets the piston into its perfect radial and vertical alignment position. As set screw is then tightened to lock the adjustable valve guide and secure the Monel piston into place. While this adjustment is permanent, MicroLok™ allows the alignment to be reset at any time by a trained technician, without soldering. Valves can be cleaned and oiled without disturbing the alignment.

What does cryogenic treatment mean?
Cryogenic treatment is an after-market service often sought by professional players at a cost of more than $100. The deep freeze treatment relieves stress in the metal that normally occurs during the making of a trumpet. The player benefits from a broader spectrum of colors and enhanced response, especially in the high register.

What are the major differences between the TRC800 and TRC900 models?
The only difference between these two trumpets is the lead pipe. The TRC800 features a brass lead pipe, while the TRC900 has a sterling silver lead pipe.