Hello all! I have seen so many wonderful posts and photos from my friends and co-workers at the annual NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) convention in southern California that I thought I would post a quick round-up for those of you (including myself) who could not be there. This convention is the pinnacle for many of us here in the music business and always highlights the exciting things to come in the new year.
Yamaha always has a large presence at the convention, and this year was no different. Many of their instruments have undergone some exciting changes, and the Professional series flutes, which debuted last year, were exhibited again this year. These models–the 577, 677, and 777 flutes–feature a cold-formed tube, which adds a huge amount of resonance to the instrument. They also feature Straubinger Phoenix pads on the 677 and 777, which have all the same top-quality features of the standard Straubinger pads with added durability for younger players with a harder touch. Check out the IFS Facebook page for a video showing the Yamaha display at NAMM. Erin currently has two 677 model instruments in the shop, so feel free to stop by and check them out!
Gemeinhardt also exhibited some newer instruments, including the “Black” series Seaman piccolos and alto flutes. These instruments feature a nickel finish for a darker look and sound quality. Erin just received a “blacked out” Aly Ryerson alto flute, and it sounds amazing! The Storm piccolos, which are a composite instrument, look super cool with the blacked-out keys–those will be hitting the shop in the next few weeks too!
And speaking of piccolos…stay tuned for a vlog post about these fantastic little devils, coming soon!