SABIAN is pleased to announce that commencing August 2002, it is the exclusive cymbal for Emergenza, the international 'battle of the bands' festival that has taken Europe by storm and is now making its presence felt in North America, with a recent competition in Montreal. Currently celebrating its 10th anniversary, Emergenza is the world's leading competitive event for pop and rock musicians seeking success in the contemporary music world. Literally thousands of musicians in hundreds of bands will compete in 42 regional competitions before winners fly to Germany for the 2003 grand final event and a chance at fame on the world stage. All drumsets at the competitions will be equipped with SABIAN cymbals, and they along with all other gear will be awarded as prizes to the top regional players. Commented SABIAN senior marketing manager Wayne Blanchard: "Emergenza is much more than a music festival or battle of the bands. What I witnessed at their Montreal contest was an incredibly exciting event with local finalists playing to a club packed to the rafters with 2,000 friends and fans voicing their support. Along with the judges and the bands these people also got to vote on the winners! The atmosphere was more rock concert than competition and everyone had an amazing time. In addition to the prize for best band, individual top players at the show were awarded prizes ranging from guitars and amps to drums and cymbals. The caliber of players was high, but ultimately it was the teamwork of players and their ability to perform as a band that was the deciding factor. The Montreal winners, Directline, did a great job of delivering the goods as a band and went on to win 4th in the international grand finals." Players also experience Emergenza in an off-stage capacity, as members of the team interview band members in preparation for the event and the possibility of success. "Every effort is made to ensure participating bands have the opportunity to perform with confidence," added Blanchard. Commented Lenny Lanteigne, dept. manager for Steve's Music, Montreal, sponsor of the first Emergenza event in North America: "Emergenza is amazing. I can't say enough about it other than Emergenza is the best music event to hit Montreal in many, many years." Concluded Blanchard: "Emergenza is a stepping stone to success, and SABIAN is pleased to join this great organization in offering bands an opportunity to achieve their musical dreams."