If there is one city in Uttar Pradesh that is talked about for its musical instruments, it’s Meerut. The city gained this fame particularly because of its fine and well-made wind instruments!
Due to a long tradition and excellent craftsmanship and manufacturing, essentially in the Jali Kothi area of the city, Meerut has become synonymous with good quality musical instruments. Till date, a major portion of the brass instrument used in Indian bands, including wedding bands are made in the city.
Here are some factors that have contributed to Meerut’s expertise in making musical instruments:
1. A center for wind instruments: Meerut is considered as the primary hub for wind instruments manufacturing with Jali Kothi area being the central location for these factories.
2. Skilled artisans: With generations of artisans making wind instruments in Meerut, the skills and techniques of crafting instruments have been passed down, ensuring high quality and unique pieces.
3. Wide range of instruments: From bagpipes to trumpets, euphoniums, bugles, cornets and clarinets, the city of Meerut produces a wide variety of musical instruments.
4. Demand and exports: Musical instruments that are manufactured in Meerut are not just used in India but also exported to many countries, keeping the demand high at all times. Army bands across the world particularly export wind instruments from Meerut.
Nadir Ali and Company is one of the oldest and most prominent manufacturers of wind instruments in Meerut ever since 1885.