Legendary Drum Maker Remo D. Belli Has Died

28 April 2016 | 10:42 am | Staff Writer

The world-changing instrument-maker was 88 years old

The founder and chief executive of Remo Inc. percussion, Remo D. Belli, has passed away at the age of 88, sparking tributes from around the world.

According to the Santa Clarita Valley Signal, Belli died on Monday (US time) following the onset of health complications that developed into pneumonia. Remo Inc. president Broach Kaericher told the paper the company's founder had passed "in the middle of the day"; "It was kind of shocking to everyone," Kaericher said.

The company confirmed Belli's death in a statement posted to their website and social media channels, announcing the news "with great sadness".

"An innovator, pioneer and icon of the world of percussion, he was an inspiration to us all for breaking new ground and making a difference in the world," the company wrote of Belli, who helped bring the organisation to prominence — and reshaped the musical landscape — following his invention of the world's first synthetic drumhead.

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"Remo was a visionary. In 1957, he invented the first successful synthetic drumhead, which forever changed the sound of music for all genres. He committed himself and his company to providing drummers, the world over, with quality products and programs while striving to expand the acceptance of rhythm and in particular drumming as an integral component of an individual's wellbeing.

"Through his ongoing efforts, the professional, the enthusiast, children, the elderly, those at risk and those faced with both emotional and physical challenges have been brought the joy of drumming."

As the SCVS notes, Belli remained an innovator throughout his career, spearheading the launch of 100%-recycled wood-fibre drums in 1983, as well as putting great stock in the health benefits of participating in music, leading to the inclusion of drum circles in his company's repertoire.

It's a hallmark not likely to change, with the company promising in its statement to "continue to pursue his vision of making drumming available to everyone alive".

Belli's passing has seen an outpouring of recognition from musicians, contemporaries and industry types around the world, including original Underoath drummer Aaron Gillespie, Korn drummer Ray Luzier, Miss May I's Jerod Boyd, The Offspring's Pete Parada, Hollywood Vampires' Matt Sorum and more.