About Seán Hooper

Seán Hooper first took an interest in stick making when he was a student at the Royal College of Music. He was very dissatisfied with the range of sticks available to timpanists and percussionists. Most of the sticks and mallets available were commercially made, and not well designed or constructed. Research into the best materials and methods of manufacture of sticks eventually led to him being able to supply sticks to fellow students and professional musicians. Those who have used Seán's sticks include Kurt-Hans Goedicke, former timpanist of the London Symphony Orchestra.

Now, many years later, his commitment to the highest standards of craftsmanship has remained as passionate as ever, and every stick and mallet is hand made throughout, even the budget range student timpani sticks.

Seán's wish to make good sticks more widely available has led to him giving lectures on timpani stick manufacture and maintenance at the Royal Northern College of Music, the Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. Kent Music School, and The Royal Academy of Music. Seán's philosophy is that whether or not a student chooses to make sticks, a more informed knowledge of the manufacture and design involved will lead to more informed choice.

 

Services

If you are buying a great product, you expect great service - this is what we offer.

Advice is always available in the choice of sticks, and if you find you've chosen the wrong stick, alterations can be made for minimal cost - we want to make sure you have what's right for you.

All sticks and mallets are made to order, which means you don't have to pat the cost of high stock levels and storage.

We are happy to refelt worn out sticks - the typical cost is just £12.50 per pair. As well as refelting our own products, we are happy refelt and rewind sticks and mallets from other manufacturers at sensible charges; compare this to the service you'll be offered elsewhere.

 

Extras

The philosophy behind the design and manufacture of our sticks and mallets is "build up to a quality, not down to a price"

However, the expertise we've achieved means that we can supply where economy is a consideration, without making compromises on quality.

If you're involved in Education, e.g. teaching in the classroom, or in retail, and would like a range of sticks and mallets that will enhance your business, maybe carrying your own name or Logo, contact us and we'll be pleased to discuss your requirements.

 

I look forward to hearing from you.

Seán Hooper