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and style. Each musician’s connection with their instrument is intimate, shaped by years of practice and the quest for a sound that feels like an extension of their voice. For 75 years, Fox Products has been a beacon on this journey, crafting oboes and bassoons that resonate with quality and precision. As the company marks its diamond anniversary, it stands not just as a testament to enduring craftsmanship but also as a symbol of ongoing innovation under new leadership. Founded in 1949 by Hugo Fox, a for- mer principal bassoonist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Fox Products was born out of a musician’s understanding of what it takes to create an instrument that truly sings. Upon returning from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Fox moved to the family farm where he set out to make instruments and spent two years crafting the perfect bassoon. In the 1960s, his son, Alan, took over ownership and expanded Fox Products’ offerings to include English horns, oboes and contrabassoons. Today, the company’s artisans are musicians themselves, bringing musicality and insight to their work. From the selection of raw materials to the final finishing touches, musicians are engaged in every step. Play testing, an integral part of Fox Products’ quality assurance, is performed by professional musicians who understand the subtleties of tone, response and ergonomics that make a long-lasting instrument. This hands-on involvement guarantees that each oboe and bassoon that leaves Fox’s workshop is finely tuned to the highest standards. “Throughout our history, we’ve had a group of tremendously talented people who take pride in what we do and where we do it,” said Gabe Starkey, the current presi- dent of Fox Products. “All our instruments are manufactured here in South Whitley, Indiana, the same Northern Indiana town where we were founded. We were started by
Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Fox Products continues to innovate and use dealer and end-user feedback to improve its product range under the leadership of Gabe Starkey. — By Kimberly Kapela 75 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS WOODWIND INNOVATION Fox Products’ Gabe Starkey
E mbarking on the hunt for the perfect instrument can be an intimidating jour- ney for any musician. This pursuit is deeply
personal, as the right instrument must not only meet technical requirements but also resonate with the musician’s unique spirit
14 I MUSIC INC. I AUGUST 2024
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