The (literally) big news from Yamaha’s brass and woodwind division was the announcement of the YEP-642TII, YEP-642TSII and YEP-842TS euphoniums, featuring a new main tuning slide trigger that Yamaha claims ‘gives artists an unparalleled ability to control pitch more precisely while playing.
‘The trigger was designed in partnership with top musicians from all genres – from the traditional brass band to virtuoso euphonium soloists—based on artist interactions at Yamaha Ateliers, including Yamaha Artist Services, Inc. in New York City. Being able to adjust the main tuning slide “on the fly” was a primary consideration in the design of this exquisite instrument. Additionally, the thumb plate position and angle and trigger stroke length can be adjusted to fit each player’s unique hand size,’ the company says.
Yamaha also introduced the YOB-831 & YOB-831L oboes long-awaited updates: ‘…that increase warmth in the sound while retaining the bright and responsive feel for the player’.
New features include a redesigned, thicker bell along with a unique taper and flare that promote a powerful sound with rich overtones. A new tone hole design has well-defined edges to provide increased resonance.
Additionally, unprecedented consistency and production precision of the 831L Duet+ model is due to the “ebonite” upper joint liner. The synthetic wood doesn’t contract or expand, resulting in outstanding overall performance and reliability.
Yamaha also announced the debut of the YCL-CSVR-ASP and YCL-CSVRA-ASP clarinets, extending the appeal of Yamaha clarinets to the highest level of professionals, it claimed.
Redesigned keys have a thicker silver-plating that allows for more comfortable and ergonomic hand placement and a new barrel design promotes a well-balanced response with rich tonal colours.
‘Yamaha’s precision and dedication to quality brings us a new version of the CSVR – a clarinet with the evenness of tone and wonderful pitch that all clarinet artists should expect, and a polished sound and refined smoothness that is truly gratifying to play,’ says Julie DeRoche, professor of clarinet and chair of the Department of Music Performance at DePaul University. ‘The new CSVR Atelier Special model is just that – special. Yamaha is taking their clarinets to a new level.’
Finally, Yamaha announced the YTR-9335VSII, a limited edition, second-generation Vizzutti model trumpet designed in consultation with the trumpet virtuoso, Allen Vizzutti. Building on the reputation of the previous model, the YTR-9335VS, the YTR-9335VSII features brass piston stems and resin valve guides that allow players to execute the very fast passages that Vizzutti is known for. It also has an upgraded leadpipe, improved bell design and square-style bend for more colour and tonal balance across the sound spectrum. The lightweight valve casing and new piston alloy offer a natural, crisp response. Striking black mother of pearl finger buttons and gold-plated top and bottom valve caps provide a classic look.
Info: uk.yamaha.com