The Prototype Archive 6 Yamaha EZ-JAZZ Piano (2006)
09.09.28
Photos by Makoto Fujii
“If only I could play the piano….” If you’ve ever listened to jazz you’ve probably had this desire. Yamaha developed the EZ-JAZZ Piano as an “electronic piano for adults” to make that dream come true. By employing an arrangement function that incorporates your favorite CD sound source and automatically plays the accompaniment, EZ-JAZZ Piano allows you to realize a colorful session when you play some simple chords on the keyboard.
The control panel, which does away with all protrusions by employing capacitance (contactless) switches, contains an operating system that floats up out of the body with blue illumination the instant you turn on the power, giving rise to an exalting experience akin to sitting down at a cocktail bar counter. The blue illumination at the player’s feet too is intended to give rise to the same effect. The arch-shaped leading edge and two very monumental-looking legs reveal a boldness that’s lacking in conventional electronic pianos, demonstrating that due consideration has been given to looks from every angle and suggesting that the instrument should not be tucked away in the corner or placed along the wall.
If “practice” implies the desire to be unseen by others and “play” implies the essence of creating an appealing performance, then the design of the EZ-JAZZ Piano was unmistakably created with the latter in mind. But even without an audience, the instrument itself will put the spotlight on the performer.
The developers look forward to the creation of new ways to enjoy music, such as an EZ jazz session with base and drums. (from AXIS vol. 124)
