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LP has always maintained a presence in the clubs and music scenes in New York
City. He has ventured where others do not tread. It's all part of the mandate LP
founder Martin Cohen has written for the world's most popular percussion
manufacturer.
For example, LP co-sponsored a concert featuring longtime LP artist George
Delgado and his band. It was a joyous and crowded event that unfolded
in one of those inner city neighborhoods that have figured highly in the
success of LP. It goes back to Martin Cohen's attendance in New York City
Latin jazz clubs and jams circa the late fifties.
The current concert has roots in 1988, when a group entitled 52 People for
Progress had a vision. Martin takes up the narrative: “They took a patch
of derelict land and turned it into a vibrant arts center on Kelly Street in
the South Bronx. They were able to get funding for an amphitheater where they
have staged over two hundred concerts, featuring scores of LP
artists such as Eddie Palmieri.”
It is important to note that without the selfless efforts and hard work of
the event’s coordinator, Al Quiñones year after year, the annual
series of concerts would not be possible. Al generously donates his time to
better the cause of this neighborhood. As long as Martin is on the beat, you
can be assured of LP's presence at street level events-events that have been
important historically in bringing LP instruments into the hands of Latin musicians.
Equally important, LP gathers input from artists and street musicians, which
informs product development.
Don't forget your roots, whether it's the revered Palladium of the fifties
or a patch of green in the South Bronx a few weeks ago. Either way, LP instruments
are key to the proceedings.
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