Craig Knudsen

Come hear one of the software developers of the YAMAHA Clavinova, voted by TIME MAGAZINE as one of the Top 50 most influential electronic devices of all time!

Music technology expert Craig Knudsen combines exceptional creativity, in-depth knowledge of software engineering, performance mastery and keen insight into the needs of musical customers to innovate pioneering technology that makes music-making more accessible, enjoyable and meaningful to global audiences. 

Drawing on 30+ years of industry experience, Knudsen has been called one of the “top innovators in music software and technology” by YAMAHA, the world’s largest music product manufacturer. As an inventor for Yamaha, he has designed numerous groundbreaking technologies, including “Follow Lights” “CueTIME” and “Kooky Karaoke” for the Clavinova digital piano, as well as “SmartKEY” for the Disklavier performance reproducing piano. 

Knudsen has served as the musical director for the opening ceremonies of Universal Studios Hollywood, and created two shows for Disneyland’s $15 million renovation of Tomorrowland’s Home of the Future, featuring Yamaha instruments. Knudsen frequently tours the United States, demonstrating his inventions for Yamaha to music retailers, at tradeshows, and on television. An accomplished keyboardist, Knudsen has performed at Carnegie Hall.

Knudsen holds a dual Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Economics from Northwestern University, and an MBA from Harvard University.

Meet the guy that has literally introduced to the industry most of the Clavinovas ever made since day one!