I am selling my Theo Markardt English horn made in1964 in the town Erlbach, region Vogtland, Germany. In this area are made the most reliable woodwind instruments in Germany -The Markneukirchen musical museum is located in the neighborhood. The assortment of wood and traditions in making woodwind instruments was well known for the markneukirchen makers. The Theo Markardt co.was small oboe company established and run by Mr. Theo Markardt in 1950. He has originated from a carpenter...’s family where he learn how to select and work with finest wood from his early age. Later on, he learned and specialized in making excellent oboes and english horns in the studio of the famous maker Paul Bauer in Erlbach. In the begging of the 1950 he decided to start up his own company together with the flute maker Paul Krebs. Future more, he become member of the PGH -Production Cooperative of the Craft "Sinfonia" Markneukirchen, which lead the entire factory to merge with "Gebrüder Monnig" in 1976, one year before his dead. Half of his employees continue to make finest oboes and english horns for his rival "Oscar Adler" co. Although this English horn is vintage, it is a real work of genius - the intonation and the choice of wood is extraordinary. It is very easy to blow in and connect the phrase lines. The sound is even in all registers and gives you possibility to project with appropriate volume to the last row of audience in the back. The body is granadilla, in brilliant conditions, with much less than average signs of use and no cracks at all. The key-work is shiny, clean and in good conditions. The pads and corks are replaced on regular basis over the years. No need for extra investment. Overall this Cor Anglais has perfect mechanical and playing settings. It is custom made horn and particularly carefully chosen for the famous oboe and English horn player Josef Marx (the name of Josef Marx is stamped on upper and middle joined by the maker).I bought the horn in 1999 from his family member and have lightly used over the years. It is extremely reliable and has the gentlest and warmest sound ever. It has full conservatoire system with low Bb, left hand F key, forked F resonance key and both trill keys. The bell sounds and looks stunning (beautiful brown lines). It comes with 2 bocals, each cost around 300$ and original e.h.case which will accommodate the instrument. No returns, no reserve price. I will ship via USPS insured within 3 business day after payment is received.