For over 30 years, Johnny has traveled the world handcrafting and tuning unique, organic wind instruments. From the coast of Maine to the coast of Spain, and everywhere in between, the Saxaflute has introduced audiences across the globe to the pure, resonant power of acoustic woodwind performance.
What started as a passion for acoustic discovery has grown into a world-renowned artisanal pursuit. Unlike generic, mass-produced pocket saxophones, every single Saxaflute is 100% handmade, custom-carved, and hand-finished by Johnny himself. This deep level of direct craftsmanship ensures that no two pieces are identical, offering you a unique piece of functional musical artistry.
Real Concert Tuning vs. Traditional Folk Flutes
A key difference that separates the Saxaflute from ordinary folk flutes or non-standard travel saxophones is our commitment to mathematical precision. Every single model in our inventory—whether carved into A-Alto, G-Tenor, or C-Soprano scales—is precisely concert-pitched. This meticulous alignment allows you to perform alongside backing tracks, guitars, pianos, and other live musicians flawlessly right out of the box.
Sourcing Legendary Tam Vong "Iron Bamboo"
Our premium Hardwood and Coloured ranges are turned on a precise wood lathe using exceptionally dense Tam Vong bamboo, often referred to as "Iron Bamboo." Getting harder and harder to source in Europe, this solid-core species requires intense manual labor to prepare. Because Tam Vong grows almost completely solid, Johnny must individually drill out the core of each piece. This structural density gives the instruments their thick, rock-hard walls, providing incredible acoustic projection, bright harmonic overtones, and deep resonance preferred by professional recording artists and street buskers alike.
Follow the Global Festival Tour
When he isn't in the workshop carving fresh inventory, Johnny can be found demonstrating the incredible responsiveness of the Saxaflute live at elite international music festivals and cultural markets. Look out for our master showcase setups at major European destinations, including regular appearances at the legendary Fallas festival in Valencia, Spain and the premier Creativa exhibition in Dortmund, Tollwood in Munich, Greenwich Market and many more places to discover.
Thank you for supporting independent instrument craftsmanship. Every Saxaflute is engineered to play using standard alto saxophone mouthpieces and reeds, making it portable, highly durable, and a joy to learn. Explore our store catalog today to find your perfect travel saxophone companion.