
1983 – The Beginning
MMI was founded by Michael Aamoth as a home-based business focused on importing Loreé oboes and accessories. The expansion of inventory by Marigaux, Howarth, Fox, Buffet-Crampon and Selmer Paris began the foundation of MMI’s mission; to provide high-quality options for woodwind players to choose from in one location.

1998 – Expansion
Repair department is officially established by renowned technician Cindy Budd, expanding the company’s capabilities and reputation for superior woodwind repair service.

2014 – Exclusive Distribution
MMI becomes the exclusive U.S. importer of Püchner bassoons, eventually expanding distribution to Heckel, Wolf, Walter. Solidifying its role in the professional music community.

2017 – The Fisk Building
MMI relocates to a larger more versatile space inside the Fisk Building in Minneapolis; which includes a dedicated recital hall that can be used for performances, in-store trials and events.

2024 – A New Chapter
Tori Okwabi, D.M. takes over as owner of MMI. Since 2015 Tori’s established the clarinet department as a staple of the community creating strong relationships with educators and performers across the country. With these skills, it’s evident that this new era of leadership and continuity of quality service will be sure to expand beyond the next 40 years.
Meet the Team
Jeff Marshak
General Manager & Oboe
Steven Maijala
Oboe Department
Alyssa Jermiason
Oboe Department
Nick Ober
Bassoon Department
Cassandra Roaché
Bassoon Department
Brandon Wozniak
Saxophone Department
Tori Okwabi, D.M.
Owner, Clarinet Dept & School Bids
Claire Zwiefelhofer
Clarinet Department
Eric Anderson
Repair Department Manager
Allen Mannes
Repair Department
Caleb Rasmusson
Repair Department
Jeff Dorman
Repair Department
Jeff Marshak
General Manager & Oboe
Oboe Specialist since 2012 and General Manager since 2019, I’ve been working diligently at MMI to maintain the highest level of standards for our double and single reed communities. I strive to make sure all of our clients have an experience they want to share with everyone. Whether that’s picking out your first oboe or working with one our specialists, I hope your experience with MMI is one that is personal, professional and filled with expert knowledge.

Steven Maijala
Oboe Department
Working at MMI as an Oboe Specialist is fulfilling because I have an opportunity every day to help other people make music, from beginners to professionals. As a professional orchestral and chamber musician, I am highly-skilled and eager to help you find the equipment needed to achieve your musical goals.

Alyssa Jermiason
Oboe Department
While obtaining my Master’s degree with John Snow at the University of Minnesota, I developed the belief that music magic can come from working with other people. That’s why I enjoy working at MMI. Helping a family or individual find the instrument that’s the best fit for them is another facet of the collaborative process that makes music making special. I look forward to helping oboists find the instrument that allows them to bring their best playing to their own collaborative spheres.

Nick Ober
Bassoon Department
In addition to being a Bassoon Specialist at MMI, I’m the principal bassoonist of Bozeman Symphony Orchestra. Through MMI I’ve been able to collaborate with top bassoon makers and develop an extensive knowledge of instruments and bocals. I enjoy sharing my knowledge with others and strive to help players find their ideal setup. My advanced degrees in bassoon performance, professional orchestral experience and skills as a musician offer candid and helpful feedback to players of all levels. I look forward to working with you!

Cassandra Roaché
Bassoon Department
As a Bassoon Specialist at MMI, I draw from my advanced degrees in bassoon performance, experience as a professional orchestral and chamber musician, new music advocate and educator. My goal is to empower players to make informed decisions by understanding bassoon and bocal design so they can find their unique musical voice with their instrument. My words of advice to my customers are to try as many instruments as you can yourself and keep an open mind – you never know what you might find!

Brandon Wozniak
Saxophone Department
As an often-sought-after saxophonist and improviser who regularly performs and records with many projects, I understand that it can be difficult to focus on the music if you’re struggling with your instrument, mouthpiece or overall equipment. I enjoy working with saxophonists of all levels and understand that we all have different needs and goals. My sound is very important to me and with 30 years of performance experience and over 15 years working as a Saxophone Specialist, I’m confident I can help you sound your best.

Tori Okwabi, D.M.
Owner, Clarinet Dept & School Bids
As the owner of Midwest Musical Imports it is my wish to bring my passion for music education and performance to all musicians. While developing MMI’s nationally recognized clarinet department it has been my goal to support educators and performers of all levels by being a reliable and kind resource. My continuous mission for MMI’s future is to support the woodwind community by providing expert service and a large quality selection of instruments and accessories in one place. I look forward to guiding you to your best playing!

Claire Zwiefelhofer
Clarinet Department
As an active professional clarinetist and passionate music educator, I hold a bachelor's degree in clarinet performance from the University of Minnesota. I regularly play in regional orchestras, jazz combos, and churches, and I hold a private studio of woodwind musicians of all ages. I believe musicians play a special role in bringing beauty into the world; thus, it is vital for musicians to have access to high-quality resources. At MMI, it is my goal to equip musicians with the knowledge and products that work best for them, and my experience in performance, education, and customer service are helpful in attaining this goal. I am committed to being an attentive, trustworthy resource during your search, and I look forward to working with you!

Eric Anderson
Repair Department Manager
With almost 25 years of repair experience specializing in double reed instruments, I take pride in the support I give to the world of orchestral music. I’ve had the privilege of studying and learning from many elite bassoon and oboe makers of the world. I bring extensive knowledge to MMI’s repair team and I am confident in my ability to provide exceptional service. I enjoy finding remedies to a myriad of issues that may occur to your instrument throughout its lifetime. It is my objective to see every client leave the shop relieved, happy, and ready for their next performance.

Allen Mannes
Repair Department
As a Repair Technician at MMI, my primary goal is to ensure your woodwind instrument plays perfectly, allowing you to focus on making music. With a deep understanding of oboes, bassoons, clarinets, and saxophones, I offer a range of precise repair services. Whether your instrument needs a pad replacement, crack repair, keywork adjustment, or a complete restoration, I use my extensive knowledge and 10+ years of experience to deliver meticulous work and a positive experience. You can count on me to bring your instrument back to life, helping you share your music with the world.

Caleb Rasmusson
Repair Department
Since 2007, I have been repairing instruments and assisting players of all ages and skill levels. Over the years I’ve collaborated with professional performers to develop extensive skills in instrument setup and fine-tuning instruments from a performer’s perspective. I enjoy working on anything from a simple clarinet tenon cork replacement to a bassoon overhaul. Understanding that each player and instrument is different, I attempt to address each player’s unique need so they can get back to making music as quickly as possible.

Jeff Dorman
Repair Department
With 10+ years of repair experience, I look forward to working with you to provide the servicing that fits your individual needs best. I take pride in providing expert level repairs to all levels of musicians, whether you’re a seasoned pro, or are just starting out on a new instrument. With extensive knowledge in double and single reeds, I look forward to helping customers with simple pad replacements or binding keys, to complete overhauls and everything in between!

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