Yamaha "Gets the Lead Out"

BUENA PARK, CA (January 16, 2004) — Yamaha Corporation of America, Band & Orchestral Division, is the first major musical instrument manufacturer to discontinue the use of potentially hazardous lead-based solder. Yamaha is pioneering the use of lead-free solder in wind instruments, and is gradually converting all of its wind instrument production facilities to the use of this ecologically friendly material.

Currently, professional and custom model trumpets, handmade and professional model flutes, and custom model bassoons are produced with lead-free solder; within two years all Yamaha wind instruments will be made using lead-free solder. Considerable time and effort was spent running test evaluations with top artists in order to determine exactly which type of lead-free solder would be the optimum material to use on musical instruments, and the results have exceeded all expectations.

"Removing the lead from all of our instruments demonstrates Yamaha's unparalleled commitment to environmental issues," states Rick Young, vice president and general manager, Band & Orchestral Division. "We are the first major band instrument manufacturer to take this step, and it serves to reinforce Yamaha's reputation in providing high-quality instruments to its dealers and, in turn, environmentally-friendly instruments to our customers."

Increasing concern worldwide about possible damage to the environment due to large accumulations of lead in discarded products was integral in reaching this decision, Young noted. Many nations are considering legislation restricting or even prohibiting completely the usage of lead.

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