In conversation with Swedish clarinettist and conductor, Martin Fröst

(L-R) Stephen Hetherington, Clare Salters, Martin Fröst, Peter Worrell

We had the opportunity recently to meet once again with Martin Fröst, a Swedish clarinettist and conductor considered one of the most renowned instrumental soloists ever.
 
The meeting took place at London’s Wigmore Hall in December 2022, a venue included as part of Martin’s European tour. Its purpose was to bring Martin up to speed with OHMI’s exciting work on the 3D-printed one-handed clarinet following a first meeting with him some ten years ago.
 
The 20-minute conversation involved Martin, Dr Stephen Hetherington (OHMI’s Chairman), Clare Salters (OHMI trustee) and Peter Worrell (acclaimed instrument maker).
 
Stephen explained the concept behind the 3D-printed one-handed clarinet: namely, that the charity recognised the need to produce an instrument that is more economically viable. Fortunately, Arts Council England were in full agreement, and provided the funding for research into the instrument and development of a prototype.
 
Peter went on to demonstrate the features of the instrument, created entirely in his workshop in Norfolk, using relatively inexpensive machinery.
 
We were delighted to hear that Martin considered the instrument to be the ‘perfect idea’ and is committed to collaborating with OHMI further to help raise awareness.
 
You can watch the video in full here:
 
https://youtu.be/7gt6r1aMLLM