Historical German Shawm: Tenor (440 Hz) by Guntram Wolf

History of German Shawms Historical versions of the oboe were are vast and varied. The Renaissance ensemble got a clear double-reed contour through the use of a set of shawms. Shawms were used both as solo voices and as background color. They were particularly used in combination with trombones (sackbutts). Like dulcians, they are indispensable for the music and sound of this period. A German shawm and dulcian combined make an ideal Renaissance ensemble. The German shawm most likely developed from the courtly shawm and became very popular at the beginning of the 18th century because of their mobility and adaptability.  Instrument Details This tenor German shawm by Guntram Wolf is in the key of c and can be tuned to either 440 Hz or 465 Hz. It is made of maple, has a c-key flap, and comes in three pieces with a fontanelle. Guntram Wolf & Ordering Guntram Wolf instruments are crafted by the Guntram Wolf firm in Kronach, Germany. The firm was created to bring a fresh approach and mode