Berlin Classic Timpani
The Berlin Classic timpani are manufactured in the old tradition of the 1950s, just like Günter Ringer once did. With elaborate craftsmanship and modern technology.
20th Century Classic Timpani & Bass Drums by Hardtke
The Berliner Paukenwerkstatt is a leading provider of timpani and percussion instruments for symphony orchestras and educational institutions worldwide.
The classical timpani was made by Wolfgang Hardtke in his workshop in Berlin, Germany. Marco Hardtke has been running the company since 2014.
The product selection ranges from the Berlin and Dresden classical timpani to drums and flight cases. All products are custom-made according to customer requirements.
Dresden Classic Timpani
The Dresden Classic model has a finer and nobler sound, with great articulation options. With traditional Dresden frame and shell.
Orchestra Bass Drums
The Hardtke philharmonic bass drums offer an unprecedented naturally rich, low-frequency response that is ideal for use in philharmonic concerts.
Instrument Flight Cases
These specially designed flight cases are available in a range of standard sizes to match our standard instrument models.
Below you can read the opinions about our instruments from some well-known timpanists, such as Tim Corkeron, Guido Rückel, and Simon Carrington:
Since using Hardtke Timpani I no longer get asked by Conductors to “use harder sticks” or to play “dryer”. So from the player’s perspective, I feel I can play with a lot of freedom.
Tim Corkeron / Principal Timpanist, Queensland Symphony Orchestra
Reference: Tim Corkeron / Queensland Symphony Orchestra website
In my opinion, the timpani by Wolfgang Hardtke are simply the best instruments built nowadays. Grown up in Berlin, the timpani sound of this city always was the sound of Günther Ringer-timps. Wolfgang’s instruments are the only ones, coming close to this sound of the so-called “romantische Orchesterpauke”.
Guido Rückel / Solo timpanist, Munich Philharmonic
Referenzseite: Guido Rückel / Munich Philharmonic website
Wolfgang Hardtke simply makes supremely good instruments. The excellent standards of craftsmanship allied with innovative improvements to the original Ringer design provide drums with a deep rich tone, good sustain, and a clean, focused center to each note across an enormous dynamic range. The sound has a unique character – these timpanis are a joy to play.
Simon Carrington / Principal timpanist, Philharmonic Orchestra in London
Referenzseite: Simon Carrington / Website of the London Philharmonic Orchestra