BUENA PARK, Calif. — Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, has recently formed an official relationship with Minnesota's Twin Cities Area Independent Percussion Ensemble. The association between Yamaha and the TCAI Percussion Ensemble was initiated with a purchase of Yamaha brand percussion and accessories.

The association between Yamaha and the TCAI Percussion Ensemble was initiated with a purchase of Yamaha brand percussion and accessories.

Formed in 2006, the Twin Cities Area Independent Percussion Ensemble was founded on the ideals of providing its members the opportunity to further their educational knowledge through a high level winter percussion program. TCAI members receive a national level Winter Guard International experience through an extensive program coached by one of the Midwest's most qualified instructional staff teams.

Included in the purchase from Yamaha were five 8200 Series Bass Drums, six 13" MTS Marching Snare Drums, three sets of Field-Corps Multi-Toms, a complete Yamaha sound system, and a Stage Advantage Drum Set.

"We feel it makes perfect sense to pair with the educational leader in today's marketplace," said Tyson Smith, Founder and Director, TCAI Percussion Ensemble. "I personally have had the opportunity to play on many different product brands. My satisfaction with the quality and the durability of the Yamaha product lines has always stood out above the others."

The TCAI Percussion Ensemble has been recognized as one of the upper Midwest's strongest local music organizations. They have succeeded in providing its members and audiences with an educational and pleasurable percussion program that focuses on technique, presentation and the thrill of playing in a drumline.

"Any time there is an opportunity for Yamaha to partner with a strong music organization we jump at it," said Troy Wollwage, Marketing Manager, Yamaha Band & Orchestral Division. "It is these grass roots organizations that truly have a high value impact on the community."

In addition to the purchase, TCAI Percussion Ensemble also will use a full complement of Yamaha stadium hardware, keyboards and tubular vest carriers.

For more information, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714)522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/band.