YAMAHA CARBON FIBER BOWS: THE FUTURE OF BOW TECHNOLOGY

GRAND RAPIDS, MI (January 23, 2003)—Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, showcases the latest breakthrough in bow technology with the debut of the carbon fiber bow series. Hand finished and constructed entirely of extremely durable carbon fiber, the new series of bows includes three models for violin and two models for cello.

Yamaha Carbon Fiber Bows

Carbon fiber bows have the same feel and playability of Pernambuco bows at a fraction of the cost, and provide musicians a more durable and consistent material than wood. The bows come close to matching the characteristics of wood, but changes in weather, temperature, or humidity have little effect on carbon fiber, making it highly stable and perfect for use in any situation – especially those in which musicians would rather not risk using their primary bow, such as when playing outdoors or on tour. The bows are great alternatives that can be used with confidence in any musical setting. In addition, the bows are lightweight and possess an optimum combination of strength and flexibility.

The bows will appeal to intermediate and advanced players, especially high school and college performers, professionals of classical or any alternative style music, as well as teachers and private instructors.

Demonstrating corporate and environmental responsibility, Yamaha has begun manufacturing carbon fiber bows to help protect the diminishing supplies of Pernambuco wood, which comes from the rainforests of Brazil and is become increasingly scarce.

"Yamaha has long been known for bringing the future into the hands of musicians today," says Michael Schaner, String Instrument product manager. "Our commitment to combining new technologies and materials with old-world attention to craftsmanship and detail has resulted in award winning Silent electric instruments, acoustic instruments, and now, new carbon fiber bows for violin and cello."

For more information, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, 3445 East Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49518; call (616) 940-4900; send e-mail to infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/band.