Nathan East Brings Out The Bay Area Bassists

BUENA PARK, CA (December 23, 2004) — Bay Area bassists and jazz enthusiasts got an up-close and personal look at the music and techniques of Yamaha artist Nathan East on Thursday, December 16 at Gelb Music's Teaching Institute in Redwood City, California. The event included demonstrations, performances, an autograph session and giveaways.

Seven lucky winners walked away with prizes that included a Yamaha AES620 electric guitar, Magicstomp pedals and Nathan East signature NE-1 parametric EQ boxes.

"The turnout and vibe were awesome," says Bryan Savage, marketing manager, Yamaha Guitars. "Everyone got some inspiring performances as well as some real insight from Nathan. These events put a face on the recordings and the products, for both dealers and customers."

East has recorded, performed and co-written songs with artists such as Anita Baker, Eric Clapton, Elton John, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Babyface, Quincy Jones, Al Jarreau and David Benoit, and co-wrote the #1 hit song "Easy Lover" with Phil Collins and Philip Bailey. His background in Jazz and pop music has earned him numerous awards, including "Most Valuable Player" (Bass category) at the International Rock Awards and "Bassist of the Year" at three of the last four National Smooth Jazz Awards ceremonies. He is also one of the original members of contemporary jazz group Fourplay (Bluebird/BMG) along with Bob James (keyboards) and Harvey Mason (drums).

Their Grammy®-nominated albums have earned Gold status and continue to top the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts. For a complete touring schedule, please visit www.nathaneast.com.

For more information, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Professional Audio & Combo Division, Guitar Products, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/guitars.