Roland

Roland Corporation began its journey in Japan in 1972, when its founder, Ikutaro Kakehashi, decided to manufacture electronic musical instruments for the mass market. Ikutaro was no stranger to the production of electronic musical instruments: in 1960, he had founded Ace Electronic Industries, a company that manufactured electronic organs. Sales were not very successful, and conflicts with shareholders forced Ikutaro to leave the company he had once created and establish a new one.

Roland quickly achieved success thanks to its legendary TR-808 and TR-909 drum machines (which are still used today), the Juno series of polyphonic synthesizers, the TB-303 bass synthesizer, and other instruments. Today, Roland instruments incorporate developments spanning more than half a century of history for both the company and its founder. They utilize complex mathematical models of real physical processes, allowing the company to remain one of the recognized market leaders, producing high-end synthesizers as well as percussion instruments, and even pianos, grand pianos, and accordions. The second area of Roland Corporation's current development is the creation of versatile instruments and other products, including computer software, accessories, and apps for iPad and iPhone.