STraiGhT from The TOP:

It’s my great pleasure to welcome you once again to Yamaha’s Backstage Pass. Our Spring 2002 issue features Yamaha’s innovative Silent series of instruments and accessories, with our cover story on Carlos D’l Puerto giving a rare insight into the Cuban jazz bassist and educator’s sources of inspiration and boundless energy. D’l Puerto is an ardent proponent of Yamaha’s Silent Bass—read on to find out why!

We also take a look at innovative music educators who are incorporating Yamaha’s Silent String instruments in their school music programs. They are leading examples of the growing number of instructors across the country who are allowing their students to discover the great versatility and benefits of these exciting tools.

Yamaha is a continuing supporter of music education in our schools, and part of our commitment lies in producing instruments and accessories of the highest quality for music students through all phases of their education. Inside, you’ll read about the talented people of the Guarneri House who are helping Yamaha provide handcrafted string instruments for budding violinists. You’ll also find information about Yamaha’s latest educational programs, and on new products.

If you like Backstage Pass, or if you have ideas on how we can make it even better, we’d like to hear about it! Please e-mail your comments, suggestions, or criticisms to backstagepass@yamaha.com. As always, we welcome your feedback.

Michael Bennett
Vice President/General Manager
Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division

If you’re looking to keep up with all things Yamaha, there is no better way than to visit our Web site at www.yamaha.com/band. The site is informative, friendly, very easy to navigate, and includes comprehensive information on the latest developments in instruments and educational materials. You’ll find links to Web pages detailing new products and specials, Yamaha-related music industry news, and features on many Yamaha performing artists. You’ll also find information on Yamaha’s important education projects, like The Yamaha Advantage™ Band Method. Dealers can also access a special section geared toward their particular needs. So check out our Web site—it’s your gateway into the world of Yamaha!

BackstagePasS

 VICE PRESIDENT/
GENERAL MANAGER:
Michael Bennett

 EDITORIAL DIRECTION:
Glenda Plummer

 MANAGING EDITOR:
Julie Leenheer

 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS:
Steve Anzivino,
Roger Eaton,
Jim Metz,
Jim Murphy,
Kimberly Pant,
Michael Schaner,
Joel Tetzlaff,
Kurt Witt,
John Wittmann

PRODUCED BY:
Bentley-Hall, Inc.

 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Michelle Brunton,
Jodie Heim,
Stephen Laifer,
Danielle Norman

 DESIGN:
Michele Lenart

 PHOTOGRAPHY:
Carlos D’l Puerto Cover: Paula Qangas;
Carlos D’l Puerto Article: Susan Sillins;
Chris Lamb Article: Lisa Kohler

CIRCULATION:
Linda Haynes

BackstagePASS is published twice a year and distributed to customers, dealers, and artists of Yamaha Band & Orchestral Division products. Please send all address changes and inquiries to the address below.

  QUESTIONS? COMMENTS? KUDOS? COMPLAINTS? CALL, FAX, WRITE, OR E-MAIL US. HERE’S HOW:
Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division,
P.O. Box 899,
3445 East Paris Avenue SE,
Grand Rapids, MI 49518-0899

Phone: 616-940-4900,
Fax: 616-949-7721,
E-mail: backstagepass@yamaha.com