YAMAHA TROMBONE DEVELOPED
WITH LEADING JAZZ PERFORMER AL KAY

Yamaha YSL-697 Jazz Trombone

GRAND RAPIDS, MI (November 15, 2002)—Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, announces the introduction of a professional trombone geared toward jazz players.

Designed in cooperation with noted jazz musician Al Kay, the YSL-697 trombone has a very small slide tolerance, constructed to be airtight while providing smooth action. The new trombone boasts exceptional durability as well as an incredible response and excellent projection. These are benefits enabling the lead trombone player to cut through the band while maintaining a full, round tone.

"The testing lasted over a year and a half and we developed a great horn that has a sweet sound when you want it, brilliance or bite when you need it, records beautifully, and has great projection for solo performances," said Kay. "I believe Yamaha has a great new lead trombone; a trombone that has character and a multi-dimensional sound that can accommodate many playing styles and situations."

The trombone features a one-piece bell that has a lengthwise seam which makes it a continuous extension of the instrument resulting in pure, uniform resonance and superior tone. A hammered yellow brass bell produces a pure and perfectly-balanced tone with quick response and extra presence due to advanced manufacturing techniques.

"The YSL-697 represents another product developed directly in collaboration with a top player in today’s trombone world," says Kurt Witt, Wind Instrument product manager. "By studying and learning from players like Al Kay, we can better create instruments by combining contemporary design knowledge with the traditional sound players know and love."

The YSL-697 is currently available.

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