History of Yamaha Drums

Yamaha drums have supplied drummers of all skill levels for decades with quality and affordable products, starting with the company's humble beginnings in the 1960s to the pinnacle of success represented by Yamaha in the 21st century.

History of Yamaha Drums

Yamaha drum manufacturers celebrated the 40th anniversary of the company in 2007. The 42-year-old company distributes hardware, drum shells and many other products internationally. The primary factory for producing Yamaha drums is in Osaka, Japan, according to its website.

Innovations

Over the past 40 years, Yamaha introduced numerous innovations to the world of drumming. Its introduction of the locking hi-hat clutch allowed drummers to play double bass while striking a closed hi-hat cymbal. The company also patented the Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System, allowing drummers to mount their drums with minimal contact to the drum shells. This system increases the drums' resonance and sustain.

Sponsored Artists

Yamaha sponsors a wide range of drummers from all over the world. Miles Davis' and Sonny Rollins' former drummer Al Foster uses Yamaha drums. Independent jazz drummer Billy Cobham plays Yamaha drums, according to the Yamaha Web site. For a full list of Yamaha sponsored artists, visit yamaha.com/artists.

Geography

Yamaha began building, manufacturing and marketing its various drum products in Japan in 1967.

Function

Yamaha drums function as a professional kit for heavy touring musicians as well as a starter kit for first-time drummers, according to long-time Yamaha drummer Ben Falcon of Asheville, NC.