#Japan #Tokyo #Kawai Instruments #ROLI #PiaBookPlayer

A New Era in Piano Learning: Kawai and ROLI's Strategic Alliance

In an exciting announcement at the 2026 NAMM Show, Kawai Musical Instruments and the UK-based music technology innovator, ROLI, have established a strategic partnership that promises to transform the landscape of music education and performance. This collaboration marks a significant step forward, merging Kawai’s rich history in piano manufacturing with ROLI’s cutting-edge AI technology and expertise in learning and hand-tracking solutions.

The Vision Behind the Partnership

Both companies are committed to creating synergies that will revolutionize the music experience for users around the globe. Kawai, known for its exceptional quality in piano production with nearly a century of experience, aims to enhance its offerings by integrating ROLI’s innovative technologies. The partnership will see both teams working closely together in research and development, focusing on joint projects to create new value in the world of music.

A Focus on Innovation

The first major initiative stemming from this partnership involves the incorporation of ROLI's advanced technologies into Kawai's specialized application, the 'PiaBookPlayer.' This innovative app will leverage ROLI’s AI capabilities to enrich interactive learning experiences for piano students. The launch is scheduled for 2026, promising users a unique and immersive way to engage with music.

Insights from Leadership

Kawai's President, Kentaro Kawai, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with ROLI. In a statement, he acknowledged ROLI's dedication to redefining the piano experience, stating, “We believe that together, we can create new values and musical experiences as we celebrate nearly 100 years of piano manufacturing.” His excitement was palpable as he looked forward to further discussions and the evolution of their collaboration.

On the other hand, ROLI's CEO, Roland Lamb, echoed similar sentiments, sharing his admiration for Kawai's commitment to quality and its legacy in music education. “It’s a great honor to partner with Kawai. I’ve long respected the craftsmanship and profound understanding of music education that Kawai embodies. I look forward to creating a novel music learning experience that fuses tradition with innovation,” he remarked.

About ROLI

ROLI is dedicated to developing expressive instruments and intelligent learning tools that foster a deeper connection with music. Their innovative approach aims to engage users of all skill levels, making music more accessible and enjoyable.

Explore More

To learn more about ROLI's initiatives, visit their official website here or check out Kawai's 'PiaBookPlayer' for a glimpse into the future of piano learning here.

This partnership not only sets the stage for an exciting future in music education but also highlights the growing blending of tradition and technology in the arts.