Yamaha at Stowe

5 April 2018

Students at Stowe School are now marching to the beat of a different drum following the presentation of a brand new Stage Custom Birch drum kit from Milton Keynes based Yamaha Music Europe.

Stowe opened in 1923 and counts among its illustrious alumni many names from the world of music and entertainment, including composers Howard Goodall and Harry Gregson-Williams, jazz musician George Melly, percussionist James Larter and singer-songwriter Crispian Mills. Today’s Stowe music staff work with some of the latest technologies, such as a Bluetooth-enabled digital piano currently on trial, to create engaging lesson content and provide the best possible student experience.

Yamaha was formed in 1887 and is the world’s largest musical instrument manufacturer. Its UK base has been Milton Keynes since the 1970s. The company has a global aim to support music education and through its Music Education Partner scheme in the UK is working together with schools across the country, providing workshops, masterclasses, recitals and valuable links with the wider music community.

Yamaha and Stowe were kindly introduced by the Chair of the Old Stoic Society (Stowe’s alumni body) and Governor, Jonathon Hall (Bruce 79). Jonathon’s London based advertising agency, AdLabs, counts Yamaha as one of its clients and he quickly identified the potential for an exciting partnership – this donation is a first step in this new relationship.

Commenting on the new connection, Charles Bozon, Sales & Marketing Director, Yamaha Music Europe said, “Stowe is a school with a record of producing talented musicians. This can only happen when students experience inspirational education. We hope, through our closer links with Stowe, we can help teaching staff realise even more engaging and innovative lessons to continue the great tradition of music here.”

Anthony Wallersteiner, Headmaster, Stowe School, added, “We are delighted to be working together with Yamaha and we look forward to exploring other ways in which we can develop our relationship.”