Canadian Music Trade - August/September 2020 | Page 13

Coast Music Adds 5 New MI & Audio Lines to Distribution Portfolio Amidst the turbulence in the MI industry caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Coast Music has continued to bolster its distribution portfolio with a slew of new brands. In recent weeks, the Jam Industries company has announced new Canadian distribution agreements with Walden Guitars, KHS America’s Green Tones brand, AirTurn, Gemini Sound, and Powerwerks sound reinforcement products. After several years of absence from the global market, the Walden brand made its re-introduction at the 2020 NAMM show and Coast Music was secured as its exclusive Canadian distribution partner. Originally founded in 1996 by Jonathan Lee and KHS Musical Instruments, Walden offers steel-string, classical, and baritone guitars. As well, since July 1 st , Coast has been distributing AirTurn’s range of app control devices. From wireless app controllers to page turners and mobile mounting hardware, Air- Turn designs performance tools for musicians and professionals from other industries. Additionally, Coast Music has recently added KHS America’s Green Tones brand for (L-R) GEMINI’S AL FORTINO, DAVID CABASSO, IKEY CABASSO, ARTIE CABASSO, ISAAC CABASSO & RENE FLORES SEAN HARKNESS PLAYING A WALDEN GUITAR COAST MUSIC’S SCOTT ATKINS WITH POWERWERKS GEAR distribution in Canada. The Green Tones line was originally developed by Hohner and makes eco-friendly, age-appropriate instruments to stimulate cognitive abilities and physical skills in children. Representing Coast’s expansion into the audio market, the company is also now distributing Gemini Sound and Powerwerks. Gemini has been making products for the DJ, pro audio, and consumer electronics markets since 1974, while Powerwerks offers a range of powered speakers, personal monitors, subwoofers, and mixers. “The Coast Music team is excited to be working with these reputable brands that further diversify our existing catalog and customer base while supporting our recent expansion into additional markets such as DJ audio, sound reinforcement, and musical instruments for development in young children,” says Scott Atkins, national sales manager at Coast Music. “We look forward to these newly-forged relationships and working with the great people behind each of these brands.” For more information, contact Coast Music: 514-457-2555, [email protected], www.coastmusiconline.com. KoSA Drum Camp Decides to “Just Drum On” for 25 TH Annual Event KoSA’s Co-Founders and Directors, Aldo Mazza and Dr. Jolán Kovács, had excitedly been planning a big celebration for their 25 th anniversary drum camp but, of course, COVID-19 made it impossible to host it in their usual fashion at KoSA’s Montreal facilities. Determined to “Just Drum On” – which was the theme of this year’s camp – KoSA’s 25 th edition was held online. Twelve renowned artists delivered their classes on Zoom from July 6-10 in a carefully-designed educational program. The week kicked off with Jim Riley’s informative presentation on getting great sound out of the drums as well as creating grooves and fills that serve the song. Mazza’s classes in Cuban technique and rhythms demonstrated his expertise of the country’s music and traditions. Bill Bachman followed with a session on “Technique, Musicality & Healthy Hands for the Long Play.” Later, a longtime KoSA faculty alumni, Rick Van Horn, joined the lineup covering a few topics. More memorable presentations throughout the week were given by jazz drummer Mike Clark, Celine Dion percussionist Paul Picard, Tower of Power drummer David Garibaldi, and renowned jazz drummer and educator John Riley. As well, Canadian Musician and Canadian Music Trade publisher Jim Norris gave a talk on how to set and achieve goals, keep yourself motivated, and constructively deal with setbacks and disappointment. “I was nervous about attending KoSA online as I had such a great experience last year in person, but this year’s camp exceeded my expectations,” said one participant. “When there is warmth and passion in teaching, it can transmit through any medium.” For more information, contact KoSA: 800-541-8401, [email protected] www.kosamusic.com. CANADIAN MUSIC TRADE 13