3D Printing Historical Wind Instruments for Musicians: Progress and Challenges

Between 2023 and 2024, the Royal College of Music Museum has collaborated with the University of Turin to explore the opportunities offered by 3D printing techniques to create accurate copies of historical woodwind instruments aimed at advanced and professional musicians. The project, generously supported by a grant from the DCMS/Wolfson Museum and Galleries Improvement Fund, included the micro-CT scanning of eight woodwind instruments from the collection, analysis and virtual restoration when required, and prints in a variety of materials and finishes. Copies are now being evaluated to compare their physical and acoustical properties to the originals and to assess the reaction of musicians and audiences to their use.