About Yamaha Atelier

Co-creation hubs for artists and Yamaha

The word “atelier” means “workshop” in French. Yamaha Ateliers have been established as hubs for the research and development of Yamaha’s brass and woodwind instruments. They actively pursue the creation of instruments that enhance the originality of professional artists by engaging these pro artists in dialogue to create the ideal sounds.

Yamaha Atelier Activities

Exploration with artists

Exploration with artists

The expert technicians at the Ateliers pay attention to what our artists have to say in the pursuit of ongoing research. In the areas of tone, playability and touch, artists’ high expectations towards their instruments continue to be met, as these musical instruments are brought to players worldwide as Yamaha brass and woodwind instruments.

For example, when considering tone, various factors combine to produce the sounds we hear from our instruments. The number of combinations is truly staggering when you realize that the very same instrument can sound completely different depending on the player, not to mention differences in how the instrument is structured such as the wood and metal parts, or slight differences in shape. There truly is no end to research when it comes to creating even better musical instruments through dialogue with artists.

Technique that supports our research and development

Technique that supports our research and development

A particularly important part of the development process is understanding what the artists want and reflecting those needs in the instrument. A wide range of technique is required to make this happen. The Ateliers offer a deep understanding of musical instruments as well as technical skill in adjustments and repair, and our technicians who are always on hand have the knowledge and technical expertise of parts manufacturing and modification, with the necessary equipment for any work to be done. These technicians bridge the gap between the performers and musical instruments, and their activities help Yamaha’s brass and woodwind instruments to evolve.

Representative models collaborated with Yamaha Atelier

YCL-CSGlll

Clarinet

  • Yamaha Clarinet YCL-CSGlll

R&D location: Hamburg

This model was developed through continuous dialogue with clarinet players in Europe. We worked alongside the artists to build an instrument structured to express sounds ranging from delicate breathing to powerful resonating tones, while incorporating the sensitivity of the German models. In particular, what artists from every country wanted was a wide dynamic range and freedom of expression. To this end, we reviewed the various specifications to bring these needs to reality.

YAS-875EX

Alto Saxophone

  • Yamaha Alto Saxophone YAS-875EX

R&D locations: New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Hamburg

This model was developed in close collaboration with world-renowned saxophonists, including Nobuya Sugawa, Jean-Yves Fourmeau and Otis Murphy. ​Since its release, continuous improvements have been made to the usability, acoustic design, and other areas of the YAS-875EX based on feedback from artists, and this instrument is now recognized by many performers as a model that continues to evolve.

YTR-9335CHS

Trumpet

  • Yamaha Trumpet YTR-9335CHS

R&D locations: Los Angeles, New York

Yamaha developed this instrument together with John Hagstrom of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra by thoroughly reviewing everything from the overall design concept to the component materials, with the goal of making the best trumpet possible. The product continues to evolve with two model revisions after its release, and BR types has been added to the lineup to provide a more nuanced respond to player needs.

YSL-882OII

Trombone

  • Yamaha Trombone YSL-882OII

R&D location: New York

This model was developed under the supervision of Peter Sullivan, principal trombonist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and professor at the Cleveland Institute of Music and Carnegie Mellon University. The instrument’s improved lever mechanism has brought about a further evolution in playability, making this model an iconic Xeno trombone that’s useful in a wide range of settings, including orchestra and brass band music.

Yamaha Atelier History

The beginning of the Yamaha Atelier goes back to 1977, when Atelier Tokyo was established in Ginza. At that time, in addition to the mass production of instruments, there was a need for a permanent hub in Tokyo, a location where many artists come and go. This facility had to be capable of responding flexibly to the everyday development and adjustment-related needs of the performers that the Hamamatsu center could not cover. Kenzo Kawasaki, the staff member who was involved in the development of Xeno trumpets took the position as the first department manager and led the efforts in working with artists from within and outside of Japan. Since then, the Yamaha Atelier has expanded to various locations including Hamburg and New York and strives to work in closer cooperation with artists from around the world.

Yamaha Atelier Distribution (As of May 2025)

Yamaha Atelier Distribution (As of May 2025)

1970–1979

1977: Atelier Tokyo established

1979: Atelier Hamburg established

1980–1989

1982: Vienna model released

1985: Atelier Hamburg moved to Frankfurt

1986: Atelier Paris established

1986: Atelier Vienna established, and the Vienna model release event was held (over a decade of joint research with the Vienna Philharmonic)

1990–1999

1990: YTR-8335US (first-generation Xeno) and YFG-812 released

1991: YTR-6310Z released

1995: YSL-882U (first-generation Xeno) released

2000–2009

2002: YAS-875EX released

2004: Xeno Artist Model trumpet released

2005: YSL-882O (Xeno) released

2005: Atelier Osaka established

2005: Yamaha Artist Services New York established

2006: YTR-9335 released

2007: YCB-826 released

2008: Atelier Los Angeles opened in Buena Park

2009: Atelier Frankfurt moved back to Hamburg

2010–

2010: Atelier Tokyo newly opened

2011: YCL-CSGIII and YFL-8x7.9x7 released

2015: YCL-SE-Artist Model released

2016: YHR-871 released

2018: YCL-CSVR-ASP and YTR-8335RC released

2021: YTS-82Z-ASP released

2023: YBL-835 released

2025: CLBR Series (Option Barrels for B♭/A Clarinets) released

ATELIER More

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