Gretsch Introduces Vinnie Colaiuta "VS" Custom Kit

July 10, 1998 -- The Gretsch Drum Company has introduced a new Vinnie Colaiuta "VS" Custom Kit. This kit features "Vinnie Whitewash" high gloss lacquer finish with black finish die cast lugs and hoops. A Vinnie Colaiuta signature nameplate adds to the special appeal of each drum. Basic sizes are 18x22 bass drum, 8x12 and 9x13 mounted toms, 16x16 floor toms, and 6 1/2x14 wood snare. Add-on optional sizes include 10x14 mounted tom, 16x18 floor tom, 6x14 brass snare, and 5x14 snare. "VS" sizes used for jazz drumming are 16x18 bass, 7x10 mounted tom, and 14x14 floor tom.

Vinnie recently visited the Gretsch drum production facility in Ridgeland, South Carolina, for a photo shoot and to try out his new kit. Staff present for the unveiling reported Vinnie's first comment was "AWESOME". Vinnie was truly impressed with the look, sound, and quality of his kit. He especially liked That Great Gretsch Sound and the contrast between the whitewash finish and the black lugs and hoops. While visiting the plant, Vinnie tried out a Walnut Broadkaster kit. He found the Broadkaster an excellent setup as well, predictably living up to the legendary Broadkaster name.

Several clinics with Vinnie are being scheduled this year. These clinics should draw large crowds of drummers anxious to meet and get invaluable tips from a music legend of Vinnie's caliber.

The Vinnie Colaiuta "VS" Custom Kit, as well as all Gretsch drums, are manufactured in the USA using only the finest quality materials and workmanship. For over a century, Gretsch has been making drums known by many as the "Standard of the World" that music greats like Vinnie Colaiuta want to own.

For more information, visit their web site at www.gretsch.com.