Rob, Paul and Tom
About Us
Tom Sparkes started repairing woodwind instruments in 1964 whilst working as a professional musician in Sydney’s clubs, and as a session and recording musician. He started the official company Tom Sparkes Instrument Repairs in 1975 and began research into oboe manufacture. He sold his first oboe in September 1988, which quickly became popular amongst students, schools and professional oboists.
The company moved into its current premises in Hunter St, Hornsby in 1992 and in 1993 was commissioned by The Powerhouse Museum to make an Australian Mulga oboe with gold keywork for its Australian Innovations section, where it is currently on display. Robert Stammers started working for Tom in 1994, and completed an apprenticeship in 2001. Tom and Rob worked together repairing, manufacturing and selling woodwind instruments, and modified the saxophone of Phil Evans as seen on Australian Story in 2005.
Rob, Paul and Tom |
Rob took the business over upon Tom’s retirement in June 2007, where he now works with Paul Marshall; a music teacher, player and composer, with several works in the current AMEB syllabus. Although now retired, Tom still plays an active role in the company “blowing in” all new oboes and consulting on repairs. Rob runs the business as Tom did, with impeccable quality control and exacting standards. All instruments are played at least twice before they’re sent out, and all work is guaranteed. |