Elvin Jones Preaches The Positive Power Of Music

ELVIN JONES PREACHES THE POSITIVE POWER OF MUSIC

—Jazz Legend's Clinic is Timely and Inspiring—

BUENA PARK, CA (September 21, 2001)—The legendary Elvin Jones provided a much-needed alternative for the New York City drumming community with an in-store appearance and clinic at Drummers World in the heart of Manhattan, September 15. The appearance was made possible by Yamaha Drums and Drummers World.

Elvin Jones performs with bassist Gene Perla (playing a Yamaha Silent Bass). A crowd of over 100 attended the clinic at Drummers World in Manhattan.

Despite recent events, an audience of over 100 was treated to Jones' innovative playing style, positive outlook and glimpses of a long and distinguished musical career. Jones, playing solo and in duet with bassist Gene Perla, displayed his spontaneous, polyrhythmic style and shared his insight on techniques and musical influences, as well as stories of his experiences with jazz giants John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins and Bud Powell.

"Music not only inspires, it can heal," Jones commented in the Q&A session, "It's carried me for over 60 years, and is one of the most positive forces out there."

According to Barry Greenspon, owner/manager of Drummers World, canceling the event was never an option. "In light of the recent horrific events in New York, we felt that this clinic would provide a positive bonding for the drumming community," he explained. "The reaction has been nothing but positive. It was incredible."

Fans meet the drumming legend at the post-clinic autograph signing.

A native of Pontiac, Michigan, Jones is known as one of the masters of jazz, and is perhaps best known as a member of John Coltrane's classic quartet of the 1960's. His spontaneous, improvisational style and technical chops have been credited with elevating the role of the drummer from merely accompanist to front line performer. His noted recordings include A Night At The Village Vanguard (Blue Note, with Sonny Rollins) and A Love Supreme (Impulse!, with John Coltrane).

"This clinic had a whole new dimension," noted Joe Testa, artist relations manager, Drum products, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Not only was it entertaining and educational, it was timely and inspiring."

For more information on Yamaha drums, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Drum Products, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone 714-522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com or visit www.yamahadrums.com.

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