I never realised England actually had an Official Musical Instrument, I can't say that a bell seems as emblematic of England as a harp is of Ireland. Then again, Ireland is apparently unique in having a musical instrument as a recognised national symbol (as opposed to having a nominal "national instrument" for the sake of having one)

Personally I think the concertina's the best candidate as folk instruments go, but given that folk music is a minority interest in England I don't think it's a symbol many would relate to.

You want something that reflects England's industrial and manufacturing innovation- "made in England"- that is part of a living musical culture shared by many, something that has shaped the sound of music in England and beyond, something so iconic that people hire non-working versions purely for visual effect...


THE MARSHALL STACK!!