THE WORLD OF YAMAHA ARTIST RELATIONS
Next to building world-renowned products, the most important asset at Yamaha is its artists. These artists help make a two dimensional product come alive by validating its purpose through performance and association. These artists inspire many to be musicians and the connection between artist and product is critical. YCA has the proud distinction of managing more artist relationships than any other musical manufacturer in the world. Working with more than 3,500 artists and musicians, these artists range in popularity from the mega superstar to the budding talent just starting a career. These musicians shine across the spectrum of musical genres and their abilities are as unique as the vast and wonderful Yamaha product line.
This information will help you to determine your qualification to submit an application for endorsement and whom you specifically should contact regarding the type of support you require.
First, what you need to know about a Yamaha Artist Endorsement:
What does it mean to be a Yamaha artist?
Yamaha artists belong to a worldwide family of elite musicians that possess talent, which we at Yamaha are proud to expose globally.
- Yamaha artists have the privilege of getting discounts on Yamaha products, as well as substantial discounts on thousands of related Yamaha musical products.
- They are honored worldwide with our promise of service and support and are granted access to Yamaha custom shops in the U.S. and abroad.
- They are offered presence on our Global Artist Website, have their writings published in our publications, and receive professional advice and career guidance.
- They are part of a respected worldwide network of Yamaha staff and artists dedicated to quality in all aspects of music.
- Some artists assist with product design.
- All Yamaha performing artists have read and signed an artist agreement and agree to communicate with the Yamaha Artist Relations Department on a regular basis.
- Yamaha produces publications and generates feature stories, which provide priceless public relations and marketing mechanisms for our artists by exposing their recordings and writings to millions.
What does Yamaha expect of its artists?
- Yamaha expects artists to be active performers and / or teachers in the music industry.
- Yamaha helps our artists obtain their instruments easily and we ask that our artists reciprocate by using our products consistently in the studio, on tour, and in clinics. Whatever and however a Yamaha artist performs, they do it with expression and are open to sharing with others the fact that they found their voice on a Yamaha instrument.
- They should thank Yamaha for support and mention what model they play if given an opportunity during a clinic / recording / credits etc.
- Yamaha expects to receive updates on artist's careers, such as new teaching appointments, recordings, publications, etc.
- Most of all, we expect them to continue their careers as planned and include Yamaha as often as possible.
How will it affect my career?
The title "Yamaha Performing Artist" or "Yamaha Performing Artist/Clinician" may open many doors in certain fields. It conveys a certain amount of immediate credibility to many. We strive to keep our roster elite, containing only active, gifted and articulate musicians.
What limitations does Yamaha have in supporting its artists?
- Yamaha does not pay artists to play its instruments. We are not a booking agency or management service. We offer sound advice and solid referrals, but it is incumbent on the artists to define and propel his or her own career.
- Yamaha is not a record company, nor does it finance the recording or writing endeavors of its artists.
- We cannot guarantee support, financial or otherwise when a Yamaha artist travels abroad. The type of event, the amount of advance notice and the destination determines the amount of support Yamaha is able to offer for educational events.
- Yamaha rarely, if ever, uses artists in advertisements. We choose to promote our artists and their accomplishments in our own publications.
- Yamaha does not pay artists to play gigs or concerts other than Yamaha events. Our resources are devoted to educational programs and events.
Will I get discounts on other Yamaha Products?
Although we are one large company, we are made up of different divisions. If a Yamaha artist expresses interest in purchasing a Yamaha instrument from another division, they will be offered support on a case-by-case basis. This is a privilege.
Application Process
If you have tried or currently play Yamaha instruments and know that they are your first choice of musical expression, you may consider applying for a Yamaha artist designation. It is necessary for a person to have an established career in the music industry if he or she wishes to be considered as a Yamaha artist.
A promotional package should include:
- Current CD recordings
- Recent photo
- One-page performance bio
- Resume
- Bio/discography
- Letter of intent including the following information:
- Name, address, phone number(s), fax number(s), e-mail address, and group name.
- Do you currently play Yamaha instruments? If yes, what models/series? If no, explain why you seek endorsement.
- What kind of music are you currently playing?
- Are you seeking endorsement from other instrument companies? If yes, what other companies are you contacting?
- List any other musical instrument endorsements you may currently have. Also, please include your contact for each endorsement along with a number at which they can be reached.
- List the retail music store and /or personnel with whom you correspond.
- If you become a Yamaha artist at some level, what are your expectations of Yamaha? What is it specifically you are looking for from Yamaha?
If you are interested in support as an artist/clinician, you must also include:
- One-page clinic outline
- Videotape of a recently presented clinic
- Information on your clinic fees
Once we receive your materials, we will respond as promptly as possibly. Most packages can take up to 4 weeks to review. Please be patient. These materials will not be returned to you.
OK, SO WHO DO I CONTACT?
There are several artist relations departments at Yamaha. Please click
here to determine the appropriate artists relations group you should contact.
