We’ve looked at Yamaha’s Disklavier in the past, and now they’ve upgraded the beast with the introduction of their Disklavier 2.0 service, available to Disklavier Mark IV owners who install a software update.
Yamaha has introduced the DisklavierRadio and the DisklavierMusicStore services, combining the best aspects of live performance with next-generation Internet streaming technology to offer an in-home entertainment experience that no radio can touch – apparently.
“For 20 years, the Yamaha Disklavier line of performance reproducing pianos has defined the leading-edge of music technology,” noted Bill Brandom, Disklavier marketing manager. “With the introduction of DisklavierRadio and the DisklavierMusic Store, we’re once again making history. Now, Yamaha Disklavier owners can take advantage of Internet streams and downloads to instantly access a vast selection of Disklavier music incorporating MIDI for the ultimate in realism. The radio may have surpassed the player piano in the early 20th century, but with these advancements, the piano is reclaiming the spotlight.”
DisklavierRadio is a groundbreaking service that elevates streaming radio to the level of a live performance. Each station includes a MIDI feed, enabling the Yamaha acoustic piano to play live, accompanied by specially recorded ensemble parts, for remarkable realism and accuracy. Yamaha Disklavier owners who subscribe to Disklavier Radio can choose from a range of music stations including Broadway, Classical and Semi-Classical, Country, Great Piano Solos, Jazz, Pop, Rock and Classic Rock, Soundtracks and Standards. Non-subscribers can access 30-second clips of channels, and can stream a complimentary channel featuring full-length, public domain songs. DisklavierRadio streams selections to Internet-connected Disklavier Mark IVs, offering nonstop entertainment, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The subscriptions cost $19.95 per month or $199.50 per year. The service features the music of such renowned artists as David Benoit, Jim Brickman, Chick Corea, Elton John and The Beatles, to name a few.
For those who wish to download their favorite tracks, the DisklavierMusicStore can be accessed directly from the Disklavier Mark IV’s Pocket Remote Controller. After establishing an account, Disklavier owners can immediately preview, purchase and download songs directly to the instrument.
Current Disklavier Mark IV owners can access DisklavierRadio and DisklavierMusicStore functionality by installing the Disklavier 2.0 software upgrade, which is available free of charge, from Yamaha. Both services require a high-speed Internet connection.
