Musikverlag Zimmermann is one of the leading publishers of instrumental methods, playing and teaching literature. Founded by Julius Heinrich Zimmermann in St. Petersburg in 1876, it became known for its “Red Tutor” series for virtually all instruments. Zimmermann initially traded in musical instruments, which he was soon having manufactured in his own workshops. He expanded his company with branches in Moscow, Riga, Leipzig, and London. In 1886 he moved his head office to Leipzig, and in 1949 the company relocated to Frankfurt. Since 2016 its registered office has been in Mainz.

The company’s first publication – Ernesto Koehler’s famous flute method – appeared in 1885. Flute music has figured prominently in the company’s publishing programme ever since. Of particular note in this context are the works of Leonardo de Lorenzo, Carl Reinecke and Sigfrid Karg-Elert, followed later by those of Trevor Wye and Wil Offermans. Russian composers such as Sergey Lyapunov and Nicolai Medtner were particularly promoted. In the 1920s, the first edition of the complete works for guitar composed by Niccolò Paganini laid the foundations for the company’s extensive guitar programme. The percussion programme also deserves special mention. Established in the 1970s, it has since become home to numerous contemporary compositions.