Founded in 1946 by Katsumi Yanagisawa in post-war Japan, Pearl Musical Instruments began as a small workshop in Tokyo, crafting music stands and accessories. As the global demand for musical instruments grew, Pearl rapidly expanded its capabilities and operations to meet the needs of musicians worldwide.
In 1968, Pearl took a significant step forward by establishing its first flute factory in Chiba, Japan, focusing on handmade flutes. Determined to push the boundaries of flute design, Pearl introduced the groundbreaking "One-Piece Core-Bar" in 1972, followed by the innovative "Pinless mechanism," marking the first major enhancement to the Boehm flute mechanism in over a century.
Under the leadership of Katsumi’s son, Mitsuo Yanagisawa, Pearl launched an export division in 1957, aiming to provide exceptional instruments and service to players globally. In 1985, Pearl opened a second flute factory in Taiwan, enabling the production of high-quality, affordable student and step-up flutes, further broadening its offerings.
From its modest beginnings to its status as a global brand, Pearl Flutes has been defined by a dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. Today, it is the choice of many of the world's most renowned artists. Pearl’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement ensures that every flutist, regardless of level, can find an instrument that inspires their musical journey.
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Flute Center