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Mapex Drives Drumming Tradition with ‘May is for Mapex’ Celebration
For the third year in a row, Mapex Drums is partnering with retailers across the USA to roll out the month long “May is for Mapex” promotion with brand-wide discounts on all Mapex gear.
Coinciding with international drum month and running in lock step with the ongoing “Drummer For Life” campaign, the declaration that “May is for Mapex” remains intent on offering a boost to help fuel the ongoing growth of our percussive community.
“May is for Mapex, has become a yearly tradition,” states Mapex Brand Manager Jeff Mulvihill. “What started as a post-pandemic measure to bolster the drumming community has grown into something that is eagerly anticipated and that we are very proud of. Supporting pro drummers, students, collectors, and hobbyists through the music retail community is what May is For Mapex is all about. We try to offer something for everyone!”
There has never been a better time to upgrade to a Mapex Black Panther Cyrus Snare Drum, consider replacing that dusty old drum kit in your basement with a brand-new Venus Series outfit, or to help get a student into their very first drumset. Whether you are just starting out or well on your way to being a drummer for life, “May is for Mapex” is the time to up your drum gear game!
Cort® Guitars invites you to soak in the warmth and allure of the new Solencanto classical guitar. With a moniker derived from the Spanish for “sun” (sol) and “charm” (encanto), this finely crafted, premium instrument delivers unparalleled performance and tone sure to satisfy even the most selective of players.Boasting distinctive aesthetics and exceptional materials, the Solencanto is an ambitious and detailed build.
Distinctive striped wood binding, a custom multi-component “Abstract” soundhole inlay, and Cort inlay at the 12th fret combine to make this model a truly eye-catching instrument. Further decorative detail is on offer via a dark black Macassar ebony fretboard contrasting in striking fashion with the creamy White Blond Gloss (WBL) Engelman Spruce top and deep-amber mahogany neck, back, and sides.
Meanwhile, the Solencanto’s hardware and engineering assure that this guitar performs at a level of excellence befitting its top-grade appearance. A side-mounted sound port enables players to better hear themselves, regardless of setting, while a soft Venetian cutaway provides easy access to the higher frets allowing for multi-octave runs and chord progressions. A sophisticated Fishman® Flex Blend preamp system and S-Core pickups facilitate the best of mic’d and piezo functionality, equally suited to both recording and gigging. Additionally, supportive fan bracing, Macassar ebony bridge, and bone nut provide the optimum balance between structural support and resonance. Playability is where this guitar truly shines and, paired to its industry-leading fit and finish, the Solencanto is sure to be a go-to choice for players of many types.
All the hallmarks of a truly high quality instrument are baked into the Cort Solencanto: ample projection with naturally balanced tonality throughout, high-tech features, and show-stopping looks. Charm and warmth are foundational to this guitar that is bound to resonate – quite literally! – with the market at large.
The Martin Custom M/0000 Satin Black Limited arrives on The Official Martin Reverb Shop
The Martin Custom M/0000 Satin Black Limited and the Reverb Selects Instruments series from Martin became available on Tuesday, April 16th, at 10:00 a.m. U.S. Central Time atThe Official Martin Guitar Reverb Shop.
“Reverb is a natural next step as we seek to further broaden our reach and deepen our connection with dedicated Martin guitar and gear enthusiasts. We look forward to engaging with Martin players through this industry-leading platform and responding with the world-class content and products our fans demand.” — Martin’s President and CEO Thomas Ripsam
“Reverb is proud to be working with one of the most storied guitar brands to bring these incredibly special guitars to our marketplace. Nearly two centuries of craftsmanship and innovation have made Martin the consistent quality leader in acoustic guitars, and we’re confident that the Reverb Select Instruments series limited editions will be exciting additions to their product catalog.” — Reverb’s CEO David Mandelbrot
There’s a wealth of stealth on this Limited Run model. This USA made premium offering brings a unique body size that’s often flying under the radar until players experience it. The “M” body incorporates the top and back dimensions found on our Jumbo with the more user-friendly standard thickness of an “OM/000”. Other player focused features like our high-performance neck conspire to make this an immediately approachable instrument for the enthusiast and singer-songwriter alike.Why stealth black? There’s nothing basic about it. . . black is never out of style. Modest by design, black still rules when it comes to cool. Black satin looks right under hot lights or when things get a little more spooky. To level-up this build we’ve rounded out the stealth presentation with natural ebony finger board and bridge, ebony bridge pins, black tusq saddle, black nut, and black tuning machines among the many features.
There’s little left to desire with a classic combination of spruce top and mahogany back and sides. Crisp & responsive, the “M” body packs volume, player friendly ergonomics, tone that cuts without being brash or sacrificing desirable low end response. When the “M” comes to play its easy to understand why “those who know, know!” At home in front of a microphone OR stage ready with reliable and accurate Fishman Infinity Matrix electronics.
Martin will be unveiling a number of new guitars as part of a series titled Reverb Selects Instruments that will feature unique offerings such as wood selections to color sections and feature upgrades.
Furch Guitars Launches Exclusive Appointment Sale Program with Personalized Assistance
Furch Guitars is pleased to announce the launch of an exclusive appointment sale program, offering customers a premium guitar shopping experience with personalized assistance directly at the Furch factory.
How it works
Starting April 2024, customers keen on personalized guitar shopping can schedule appointments with Furch’s dedicated product specialist at the company’s factory in Velké Němčice, Czech Republic. The exclusive appointment offers the option of an individual guided tour of the manufacturing facilities, allowing customers to witness firsthand the craftsmanship behind the brand’s production and gain insight into its philosophy. Furch Guitars CEO, Petr Furch elaborated: “Our expert product specialist is here to provide professional assistance, ensuring the most personalized experience for our customers as they seek the perfect guitar to match their preferences and playing style.”
During these appointments customers can explore a wide array of guitar specifications including non-standard ones such as models with alternate nut widths of 43 mm or 48 mm, baritone, 7-, 9-, and 12-string guitars, exotic tonewood combinations, as well as fully custom Rainbow Series instruments. “Furthermore, we are excited to give the visitors access to the Furch museum located in our showroom, where they can see several historically significant models that have contributed to the rich heritage of our brand,” concluded product specialist, Lukáš Lengál.
Beyond the factory and showroom tours and personalized sales assistance, customers can also purchase exclusive Furch-branded fashion and lifestyle products, as well as original spare parts and accessories to complement their Furch instruments.
Truly Personalized Experience
To celebrate the kickoff of the campaign with a time-limited special offer, Furch has a special treat for the first five booked appointments. Furch CEO, Petr Furch, will personally guide them through the selection process, and leveraging his expertise and passion for guitarmaking, he will help them find their ideal instrument. “The launch of our exclusive appointment sale program marks a significant step forward in our relationship with our customers. It has always been my dream to offer this high level of purchasing experience, with dedicated team members ready to serve at their best. I’m happy I can make this occasion even more special for the first five visitors, and use my knowledge to help them find the perfect guitar for them. I eagerly anticipate welcoming everyone to our headquarters,” Petr Furch concludes.
For more information and appointment scheduling, please visit: link
EarthQuaker Devices Announces a Limited Edition Avalanche Run to Support the Lottery League
The Lottery League and EarthQuaker Devices have joined forces to produce a limited edition version of the famed Avalanche Run pedal to help fund and support the 2024 Lottery League Season. This pedal features new and exclusive artwork by Cleveland artist Clay Parker whose renowned work has been adored by musicians and bands from all over with his extensive work creating album cover art, gig fliers and posters.
Each season the Lottery League brings together over 170 musicians from across the Ohio region to be randomly drafted into new bands, all featuring musicians and artists who have never performed together before. And the whole project culminates with The BIG SHOW where, after two months of collaborating, creating and rehearsing, each of the 40+ newly formed bands then perform their all original sets to thousands of fans across three stages in an all day long free festival that’s truly unlike anything else.
Having a common goal of inspiring and challenging performers in exciting and different ways, EarthQuaker Devices and the Lottery League share the mission of fostering a lifetime of musical creativity and connectivity, and every one of these limited edition Avalanche Run pedals that’s sold will help support the Lottery League and the great expense it takes to construct such a unique art project with multiple events all free and open to the public.
The Avalanche Run pedal itself is a dreamy stereosonic exploratory multi-tool that includes up to 2 seconds of delay time, reverse delay, tap tempo with subdivision control, switchable true bypass or buffered bypass with 5 different tail lengths (including a sound-on-sound style lo-fi looping mode) and an assignable expression control that maps the expression jack to a control of your choice, including the toggle! And as with every pedal by EarthQuaker Devices, this limited edition pedal is hand-built, hand-tested, and guaranteed for life.
Dimensions: 4.65 x 4.15 x 2.25 in. (118 x 105 x 57 mm) with knobs
Current Draw: 410 mA
Input Impedance: 1 MΩ
Output Impedance: 100 Ω
S/N Ratio: 115dB typical
24-bit 96kHz A/D & D/A converters
All analog dry signal path
All digital wet signal path with 20Hz – 20kHz frequency response
Expression Jack
Flexi-Switch® Technology
Included 9v center-negative 1-amp DC power supply
Lifetime Warranty
Hal Leonard’s ‘Chart Hits of 2023-2024’
Hal Leonard has released a collection guaranteed to excite today’s pop fans! Chart Hits of 2023-2024 features 12 recent blockbusters from superstars like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, Teddy Swims, and more.
Each song is arranged for piano and voice with guitar chord frames. Titles include: Cruel Summer • Dance the Night • Lose Control • Used to Be Young • What Was I Made For? • and more. The collection also includes songs from Wonka, Only Murders in the Building, and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes.
Retailing at only $19.99, consumers are paying less than $2 per song! Interested retailers should contact the Hal Leonard E-Z Order Line at 1-800-554-0626 or email [email protected].
MMR Dealer Survey: Drum Microphone Packages
Setting up a mic for a singer in the studio or onstage? Not so terribly complicated. Same applies to guitar, bass, keys, brass & woodwind — nearly everything except DRUMS. With multiple components in most kits, multiple microphones are required. As such, Drum Microphone Packages (kits, packs, sets) are popular items with both live and studio sound engineers. If you stock these microphone packages, please take a few moments to share your thoughts on this market segment by clicking here!
New Nexus Series Acoustics from Faith Guitars
Faith Guitars are delighted to announce the launch of new additions to their popular Nexus acoustic guitar series.
In line with established Faith Nexus Cognac and Copper Black models, the new Nexus Venus E/Cut Solar Flare [FPVSF] and Nexus Neptune E/Cut Coffee Brown [FPNCECF] are stunning all-solid acoustic guitars designed to carefully bridge the gap between Faith’s ever-popular, stripped-back Naked series and their premium PRO and LEGACY models.
The Nexus Venus Solar Flare (FPVSF) model features an all-mahogany body with exclusive satin finish over a rich, sunburst-coloured top while the back and sides retain a deep, stained natural hue. This satin finish is soft and smooth to the touch, complementing its smooth and balanced tonal palette.
The Nexus Neptune Coffee Brown model (FPNCECF), showcases beautiful, figured Javanese Trembesi all over. Indigenous to the Indonesian island of Java, Trembesi delivers a warm and balanced tone akin to Mahogany and the light Coffee Brown stain helps to bring out even more of the stunning character of this exotic tonewood.
Both models feature ABS body binding – black with white purfling on the Solar Flare, cream on the Coffee Brown – and are fitted with a solid Figured Ebony pickguard, a feature found on only a handful of select Faith guitars.
Precision tuners along with mahogany necks, genuine ebony fingerboards, bridges and bridge pins complete the Nexus look. Electronics are provided by Fishman, using a side-mounted Presys II preamp system which also features an in-built tuner.
Stephen Kehner Joins Majestic Percussion as New Artist Endorser
Oregon Symphony Assistant Principal Percussionist Stephen Kehner has joined the Majestic Percussion artist roster, adding his skill as a performer and his passion as an educator to the esteemed lineup.
“I’m proud to be associated with the Majestic brand because their mission aligns closely with my own,” states Kehner. “They develop and create the highest quality instruments while also robustly supporting percussion music education initiatives that I think will continue to be transformational for the next generation of exciting young musicians,” says Stephen.
Stephen Kehner brings a wealth of experience and talent to Majestic Percussion. Prior to his tenure with the Oregon Symphony, Stephen served in prominent roles with the Utah Symphony & Opera and the New World Symphony. His performance background includes collaborations with the St. Louis Symphony, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Silk Road Ensemble, Sö Percussion, and more.
Beyond his accomplishments as a performer, Stephen Kehner is deeply committed to education. He has mentored students across various settings, including summer music camps, high school marching bands, and university percussion departments. His dedication to cultivating young talent extends internationally, as evidenced by his coaching of students in Colombia alongside his performances with the Iberacademy youth orchestra.
As a devoted advocate for diversity and inclusion in classical percussion, Stephen Kehner serves as a Professional Member of the Network for Diversity in Concert Percussion. Additionally, he is a teaching artist for The Percussion Conservatory, a digital platform dedicated to classical percussion education.
“The addition of Stephen to the artist roster is an exciting development for the Majestic team,” says Nic Milliner, Brand Manager for Majestic Percussion. “Beyond his truly exceptional musical talent, Stephen’s unwavering dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and advocating for the percussion community embodies his character and seamlessly aligns with our brand vision. We anticipate a partnership that will thrive for years to come.”
TikTok Artist LO LA Joins Lanikai Ukuleles’ Roster of Talented Artists
Lanikai Ukuleles is thrilled to announce its partnership with recording artist and TikTok sensation, LO LA. Since 2018, LO LA has been captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of indie-pop, alternative, and dream-pop, establishing herself as a rising star in the music industry. Hailing from the vibrant city of Los Angeles, LO LA’s music has resonated deeply with fans worldwide, amassing over 100 million streams across various platforms.
With chart-topping success in Indonesia for three consecutive weeks, LO LA’s international appeal is undeniable. However, it’s not just her music that has captivated audiences; her engaging TikTok live streams have become a fan favorite, with LO LA serenading her audience for hours on end, taking requests, and providing a glimpse into her creative process.
“I am absolutely thrilled to partner with Lanikai Ukuleles,” said LO LA. “Their instruments are truly exceptional. I love the color so much and I love how rich the tone is! I also love that it has strap buttons unlike most ukuleles. I love that I’m also able to plug the ukulele right into my soundboard and play it on my livestreams!”
LO LA’s choice of instruments includes the Blue Quilted Maple Tenor Ukulele (QM-BLCET) and the timeless Solid Mahogany Tenor Ukulele (MAS-CET).
“LO LA’s enthusiastic presence in the social media world, propelled by her music, is truly inspiring. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with her and engage with her global audience,” says Rock Clouser, Brand Manager for Lanikai Ukuleles.
For more information on LO LA and her upcoming projects, please visit her official website and follow her on social media.
New York’s Imperial Guitar & Soundworks to Close Brick-and-Mortar Location
Bill Imperial, Ciarra Fragale, and Joe DiBisceglie of Imperial Guitar & Soundworks
New Palz, New York’s Imperial Guitar & Soundworks will soon be shuttering its doors for good. The longtime MI retail mainstay has served the Hudson Valley area for nearly half a century, but founder Bill Imperial has decided that now’s the time to step away from the business… but not completely.
“The brick and mortar is humming along just fine and I still enjoy it,” he shares. “Customers come in almost every day thanking me for the service we provide to the music community in the Hudson Valley of NY. The reason I’m winding down is because I simply want less responsibility; less of the nuts and bolts of running the biz — making sure the humidifiers are working, the rubbish is picked up, there is coverage for employee vacations/gigs/illness, damage control when vendors’ ETA’s are wildly inaccurate, et cetera.
“All the remaining inventory will be at Jake’s Main Street Music in Beacon https://jakesmainstreetmusic.com/, as well as online at ImperialGuitar.com , eBay, Reverb. As long as I can continue to acquire interesting instruments I will continue to offer them at the aforementioned places. I will also continue to design and install professional audio/video/lighting systems in churches, clubs, summer camps, theaters, and other public places with my strategic partner, Mike Lynn of Lynn Sound Systems, Newburgh NY.”
Gibson Gives and 1500 Sound Academy Partner for Music Scholarships Across Los Angeles, CA, Beijing, China, and Taipei, Taiwan
Students attending 1500 Sound Academy learn the craft of Music Production, Engineering, Songwriting, Mixing, Music Business, and Artist Branding for careers in music
Gibson, and its charitable arm Gibson Gives believe in the power of music, and that getting instruments into the hands of those with a desire to make music is a life-changing event. A state-of-the-art music school in Inglewood, CA, 1500 Sound Academy offers comprehensive courses to music students and aspiring professionals who want to learn the craft of Music Production, Engineering, Songwriting, Mixing, Music Business, and Artist Branding. Gibson Gives is proud to announce it will partner with 1500 Sound Academy this year to give five music scholarships valued at$25,000. in addition to instruments and gear totaling over $12,500 across the program inLos Angeles, California, Beijing, China and Taipei, Taiwan.
“Music has the power to transform lives, and at Gibson Gives, we believe in amplifying that transformative potential. We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with 1500 Sound Academy, a beacon of excellence in music education. This collaboration extends our commitment to fostering talent globally, reaching students in Los Angeles, Beijing, and Taiwan.”
–Erica Krusen, Senior Director, Global Cultural Influence and Gibson Global Executive Director, Gibson Gives
“1500 Sound Academy and Gibson Gives share a tireless commitment to providing musicians with the education, resources and support that is vital on their journey. We couldn’t be more excited this partnership and the opportunity the Gibson Gives Scholarships will afford to young, bright minds as they pursue their dreams in the music industry.”
–Twila True, Co-Founder, 1500 Sound Academy and CEO, True Family Enterprises
Students can apply through April 19, 2024 AT 5PM PT for the Los Angeles area program of the Gibson Gives Scholarship HERE, the Beijing program HERE, and the Taipei program HERE.
Recipients will be announced on May 8.
Above: Students attending 1500 Sound Academy.
Above: Students attending 1500 Sound Academy.
Above: Students attending 1500 Sound Academy.
Gibson Gives–a 501(c)(3) is committed to making the world a better place by supporting non-profit organizations and developing programs in our efforts to advance musicians through music education, and health and wellness initiatives worldwide. Gibson Gives is committed to cultivating LGBTQ-inclusive partnerships and offering steadfast support for all communities. 100% of all donations to and from Gibson Gives go towards giving the gift of music. In the last three years, Gibson Gives has raised over $4.5 million dollars and enabled $46 million in funding for key organizations through product donations and meaningful giving worldwide. For more information, visit: www.gibsongives.org.
A trailblazing music education institution that strives to produce passionate sound creators through mentorship, positive mindset, and professional development, 1500 Sound Academy was created to help enrich the next generation of music creatives. 1500 Sound Academy’s founders consist of the legendary musical ensemble, 1500 or Nothin,’ aka James Fauntleroy and Larrance “Rance” Dopson, and renowned entrepreneur, executive, and philanthropist, Twila True. Both are GRAMMY Award-winning industry leaders who have collaborated with many high-profile artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Nipsey Hussle, and Justin Timberlake. In 2021, Fauntleroy, Dopson, and True launched the educational program in Los Angeles that teaches local residents the fundamentals of music and the industry. 1500 Sound Academy provides annual scholarships to attendees and offers instructional courses at affordable rates in comparison to other programs in the city. For more information on 1500 Sound Academy, visit: https://www.1500soundacademy.com/.
For the third year in a row, Mapex Drums is partnering with retailers across the USA to roll out the month long “May is for Mapex” promotion with brand-wide discounts on all Mapex gear.
Cort® Guitars
The 
Furch Guitars
The Lottery League and 
Hal Leonard
Setting up a mic for a singer in the studio or onstage? Not so terribly complicated. Same applies to guitar, bass, keys, brass & woodwind — nearly everything except DRUMS. With multiple components in most kits, multiple microphones are required. As such, Drum Microphone Packages (kits, packs, sets) are popular items with both live and studio sound engineers. If you stock these microphone packages, please take a few moments to share your thoughts on this market segment by clicking 
Faith Guitars
Oregon Symphony Assistant Principal Percussionist Stephen Kehner has joined the 
