Yamaha's Groove Night 5 Pays Tribute to a Legend

BUENA PARK, CA (February 6, 2004) — One of the hottest tickets at Winter NAMM 2004 was Yamaha Drums' "Annual Legendary Groove Night 5" concert on Saturday, January 17, at Santa Ana's Galaxy Theater. Hosted by Rick Marotta, the evening showcased the talents of international and American drummers.

This year's Groove Night held special significance as a celebration of the contributions of Yamaha Drums' own legend – Takahashi "Hagi" Hagiwara, who will retire in early 2004. The mastermind behind Yamaha Drums' product development, international marketing, and artist relations for almost 40 years, Hagi has been the force behind many significant design innovations, new products and important artist signings, and has been a visible liaison between Yamaha Japan and Yamaha Corporation of America. During an opening ceremony, Hagi received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Yoshihiro Doi, president, Yamaha Corporation of America.

"Hagi is the man behind many of Yamaha's product innovations, and has continued to dedicate himself to furthering Yamaha's already outstanding line of drums throughout his career," stated Dave Jewell, marketing manager, Yamaha Drums.

Legends Roy Haynes, Earl Palmer, Al Foster and Elvin Jones were recognized as longstanding members of the Yamaha Drum family. Palmer and Haynes were on hand to accept special awards from Hagi.

Artists sharing the Groove Night 5 stage included: Tom Brechtlein, Paul Brochu, Gerry Brown, Terri Lyne Carrington, Jimmy Chamberlin, Ndugu Chancler, Mickey Curry, Peter Erskine, Anton Fig, Ralph Humphrey, Akira Jimbo, Steve Jordan, Manu Katche, Russ Kunkel, Paul Leim, Jerry Marotta, Dave Mattacks, Russ Miller, Richie Morales, Jamie Oldaker, Chris Parker, John 'JR' Robinson, Eiji Shimamura, Jabo Starks, Clyde Stubblefield and Dave Weckl. Backed by the famous Groove Night Band, bandmates included Ross Bolton, Jon Greathouse, Will Lee, Ralph MacDonald, David Spinozza, Neil Stubenhaus, Melanie Taylor, Mark Williamson, Robbie Wyckoff, and The Shall Be Groovin' Horn Section featuring George Shelby and Eric Marienthal. Many of the artists participated in an autograph signing the following morning at the Yamaha booth.

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