Yamaha and Jamie Cullum unveil Yamaha’s Enspire

Imagine a piano that brings together tradition and technology as never before in a phenomenally powerful new type of instrument – an instrument that will reset the way people think about pianos. That’s where Enspire enters the scene.

Award-winning pianist, songwriter and Yamaha Artist Jamie Cullum yesterday lifted the lid on the future of the piano at the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard in London, launching Yamaha Enspire with a high-powered remote and real-time live show.

The event started with the assembled audience of VIPs, press and record label executives watching in utter bemusement as Jamie’s band kicked off their explosive set. Bemused because, despite the fact that the piano was obviously being played, Jamie was not physically in the room! The Yamaha Enspire was reproducing every note, emotion and dynamic of Jamie's performance at London’s Metropolis Studios earlier the same day.

It was only when Jamie appeared in person to finish the set that the audience began to get an insight into the potential of this extraordinary new instrument. 

Externally, Enspire is a beautifully elegant, handcrafted grand piano, but this traditional appearance belies the power of the amazing state-of-the art digital music technology concealed within.

The Enspire incorporates unique technology that allows it to play itself, record itself, be played remotely, and network with other Enspire instruments anywhere the world.

Seeing this potential, Abbey Road Studios have become the first studio in Europe to install a Yamaha Enspire, joining the Yamaha CFX flagship concert grand.

With this unique technology you can also hear at first hand some of the most famous artists in the world playing your very own Enspire, thanks to an extensive Pianosoft software library. Simply download your choice of music from the library and instantly the instrument will replay full orchestral – and vocal – arrangements, the piano keys and pedals exactly replicating the physical actions of the pianist at the time of the original recording.

Enspire also offers connectivity with Yamaha’s MusicCast multi-room system, which will seamlessly stream Enspire performances throughout your home. The instrument is controlled by iPhone, iPad and iPod thanks to the Enspire controller app.

All models also offer Yamaha’s ‘Silent’ capability, which allows Enspire to be played on headphones – ideal for practicing privately without being disturbed – or disturbing others!

Jamie Cullum said ‘This is a new type of piano that is true to Yamaha’s tradition and craftsmanship but opens up new creative potentials for musicians. The fact that it’s a self contained recording studio and can connect musicians remotely anywhere in the world, gives me as a musician, many some yet to be discovered, new ways to communicate and compose.’

Yamaha’s Charles Bozon commented ‘Yamaha is driven by a passion for music making, innovation and excellence and the new Yamaha Enspire is one of the finest examples of this philosophy. The instrument will appeal to musicians, songwriters, recording studios and of course anyone at home who wants the ultimate entertainment system.’

Pianist magazine featured a full-length article on the Enspire inside issue No 91

Pictures: Jamie at (and on!) the Enspire; Right: Vivienne Bartolucci (Yamaha’s Piano Specialist) with Pianist editor Erica Worth