Where Tradition Resonates and Innovation Vibrates
Interview with Berthold Mollenhauer, Managing Director of Conrad Mollenhauer GmbH
Whether violin, piano, or flute – musical instruments are much more than mere tools of sound. They are expressions of culture, emotion, and artisanal precision. Especially in Germany, instrument-making has a long tradition: many family businesses have been maintaining their knowledge and skills for generations. This includes Conrad Mollenhauer GmbH from Fulda, which, having been founded in 1822, is one of the oldest instrument manufacturers.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. Mollenhauer, how did you enter the world of recorders?
Berthold Mollenhauer: I am a mechanical engineer and have worked in development for many years – initially in camera technology, later in medical technology. When the question arose in the family about who would take over the next generation in the company, it was an exciting thought for me. Mollenhauer GmbH has a history of over 200 years – that obliges and inspires at the same time. I then joined the management in 2017 and was able to bring my technical experience into the development work.
Wirtschaftsforum: What was particularly appealing to you as a newcomer to this new task?
Berthold Mollenhauer: On the one hand, of course, the family tradition – you can feel it in every room, at every workbench. On the other hand, the opportunity to work with a product that directly touches people. A musical instrument is not just industrially made,
but with a lot of feeling, experience, and handiwork. I find this combination of technology and emotion fascinating. Additionally, I was able to modernize many processes, such as through CAD-supported development and the introduction of digital planning structures.
Wirtschaftsforum: The recorder is now your main product. What developments have you initiated in recent years?
Berthold Mollenhauer: We have launched several new models, including our current school recorder Fipple. It is characterized by various head colors and a particularly round, harmonious sound. Moreover, we have ventured into new materials – in addition to pearwood we now also use maple, which is lighter in appearance and very balanced acoustically. Our goal was to create an instrument that sounds better in a classroom setting and also mixes well with other brands. At the same time, we are working on further developing our professional series.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mollenhauer has also made a name for itself with innovative models like the 'Elody'. What is the idea behind this modern recorder?
Berthold Mollenhauer: The Elody is indeed a milestone for us. It was developed based on our modern recorders and launched in 2013. It is an electrically amplified recorder that is similar to electric guitars: it can be connected to pickups with effect units, opening up completely new sound worlds. This allows integration of the recorder into jazz, rock or pop – a real revolution for this instrument.
Wirtschaftsforum: Craftsmanship plays a central role for you. What does production look like today?
Berthold Mollenhauer: We exclusively produce at our location in Fulda, with currently 31 employees. The proportion of machinery is high – such as in turning or milling – but as an instrument progresses in the manufacturing process, the more handcrafting it involves. Each flute is oiled multiple times, polished, and individually checked. In the end, each piece passes through the hands of experienced instrument makers – and you can hear that each instrument holds the dedication of our staff.
Wirtschaftsforum: What about internationalization – where are your markets today?
Berthold Mollenhauer: Our instruments indeed go all around the world. We have particularly strong sales in Asia – for example in Taiwan, where recorder lessons are part of the school curriculum. There, large orchestras with up to 100 players exist. But musicians in Europe, North and South America also appreciate the precision and sound quality of our flutes.
Wirtschaftsforum: Sustainability is a central theme in many industries. What is its importance for Mollenhauer?
Berthold Mollenhauer: A very big one. We source our woods predominantly from Europe, focusing on sustainable forestry and maintaining long-term supplier relationships. Additionally, we have supported reforestation projects and invested early in energy-efficient building technology. For us, sustainability is not a trend, but a part of our DNA – it's just a natural part of a family business with a 200-year history.
Wirtschaftsforum: Where do you see the future of Conrad Mollenhauer GmbH?
Berthold Mollenhauer: We want to further strengthen our position as a high-quality manufacturer while also advancing digital development. The combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technologies is the key. It is important to me that Mollenhauer remains a vibrant place – a place where people experience music, craftsmanship, and community. If we succeed in that, then our future will sound as harmonious as our flutes.