The Wimmer-Bades Jaw harp manufactory
Our philosophy: Honest craftsmanship – without compromise. We manufacture every jaw harp exclusively in our workshop in Molln.
Since the 17th century, our family has been crafting the Molln jaw harp – an old Austrian folk instrument renowned far beyond the borders of Europe. With great joy, we continue to handcraft the traditional Molln jaw harps in our centuries-old Wimmer-Bades jaw harp workshop. (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage) Each individual jaw harp is created on the anvil, piece by piece, forged with fire, patience, and decades of experience.
100% handmade. 100% Made in Austria.
The old and long tradition of this craft in our house makes us very proud, and so we continue the production of jaw harps in the old, traditional way from generation to generation.
-
Hand-forged quality from Austri
-
Traditional manufacturing techniques for 12 generations
-
Custom and bespoke pieces
-
A family business with passion
Every jaw harp contains a piece of our history – and a piece of Austrian culture.
The Wimmer-Bades family
Roland Bades
Jaw harp makers / Individual & custom-made / Forged jaw harps
Roland continues to run the workshop with the same passion that his father-in-law, Franz Wimmer, had for his craft. His focus is on individual and custom-made pieces, precise blacksmithing, and the preservation of traditional techniques.
Florian Bades
jaw harp maker
I grew up with the jaw harp. My interest in metalwork was there from a very young age. With a solid education in metalworking, I was able to seamlessly blend tradition with precision.
The connection to the Molln jaw harp was practically in my blood.
Franz Wimmer (1938–2022) – The Sounding Ambassador
Franz Wimmer was a jaw harp maker since 1952 – dedicated to sound his entire life. As a "sounding ambassador," he made the Molln jaw harp famous far beyond Austria's borders, spreading its warm, distinctive timbre throughout the world. He continued the family business, WIMMER MAULTROMMELN, into its fourth generation, entirely in the spirit of his great-grandfather and his father, also named Franz Wimmer. Until the very end, at the age of 85, he was in his workshop every day, filled with passion, dedication, and a genuine love for his craft.
Our mission: To bring the Molln jaw harp to the world
We want to preserve this special instrument – a piece of Austrian identity – for future generations. At the same time, we are opening the door for musicians worldwide who want to rediscover the sonic diversity of the jaw harp. Whether beginner, collector, or professional – our jaw harps represent:
-
Authentic sound
-
Precise craftsmanship
-
Austrian tradition
-
Long lifespan
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Molln Jew's Harp
Was ist eine Mollner Maultrommel?
The Molln jaw harp is a traditional Austrian folk instrument that has been hand-forged in Molln for centuries. Each jaw harp is entirely handcrafted and possesses a warm, characteristic sound.
Who makes the jaw harps?
Our instruments are manufactured in the Wimmer-Bades jaw harp manufactory – a family business that has been carrying on the craft since the 17th century.
Are all jaw harps handmade?
Yes. Every jaw harp is made entirely in-house using traditional methods and centuries-old tools.
Where are jaw harps produced?
All instruments are made in our workshop in Molln, Upper Austria – 100% Made in Austria.
Can I buy a jaw harp online?
Yes. You can order jaw harps directly through our online shop. Each order is individually checked and carefully packaged.
Which jaw harp is suitable for beginners?
For beginners, we recommend our traditional models, as they are easy to play and have a balanced sound.
Are there jaw harps for professionals?
Yes. We manufacture precisely tuned instruments for musicians who require the highest sound quality and exact response.
Can I order a custom-made product?
Yes. We offer custom and special-order products – tailored to sound, size, shape or playing style.
How do I properly care for my jaw harp?
The jaw harp should be stored in a dry place and briefly wiped after playing. If necessary, it can be lightly coated with cooking oil to protect the steel.
How long does it take to make a jaw harp?
Depending on the model and complexity, production takes between a few hours and several days – purely manual work.
What makes the Molln jaw harp so special?
Molln has been considered THE center of European jaw harp production for centuries. The Molln jaw harp is a traditional Austrian folk instrument that has been hand-forged in Molln for centuries. Each of our jaw harps is handcrafted and possesses a warm, distinctive sound.
Can I visit the factory?
Guided tours and visits are possible by appointment. We welcome interested individuals, musicians, and groups.
Maultrommelmanufaktur & Traditionshandwerk
WIMMER-BADES
Im Sperrboden 1
A-4591 Molln
Share the Page / Teile unsere Seite:
Find us /
Finde uns:
