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JULY 2025 I VOL. 36, NO. 6
PUBLISHER Kevin R. Maher EDITOR Katie Kailus EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kimberly Kapela CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ed Enright SALES MANAGER Chris Maher DESIGNER Žaneta Čuntová
CHAIRMAN Kevin Maher PRESIDENT Frank Alkyer ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT Sue Mahal
CIRCULATION MANAGER Evelyn Hawkins BOOKKEEPING Evelyn Hawkins
OFFICES Phone: (630) 941-2030 Email: editor@musicincmag.com CUSTOMER SERVICE (630) 941-2030 ext. 122
Jack Maher, President, 1970–2003 SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Free to qualified retailers and suppliers of musical instruments. For all others: $60 one year (11 issues). $100 two years (22 issues) to U.S. addresses. $85 one year (11 issues), $150 two years (22 issues) to Canada and other foreign countries. Air mail delivery at cost. SINGLE COPY (and back issues, limited supply): $14.95, plus shipping, surface mail. Air mail, delivery at cost. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and photos. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from Maher Publications Inc. Copyright 2025 by Maher Publications Inc., all foreign rights reserved. Trademark register pending. OTHER MAHER PUBLICATIONS: DownBeat, UpBeat Daily CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please allow six weeks for your change to become effective. When notifying us of your new address, include your current MUSIC INC. label showing your old address. MUSIC INC. (ISSN 1050-1681) Published monthly, except March. Printed in U.S.A. by Maher Publications Inc. 188 W. Industrial Drive, Suite 310, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:
MUSIC INC., 188 W. Industrial Drive, Suite 310, Elmhurst, Illinois 60126
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July 2025
THE RETAIL TECH ISSUE
Helmuts Bems
24 I FROM THE TOP Helmuts Bems, founder and CEO of Sonarworks, shares the findings of his research on AI and the music industry. 34 I THE INAUGURAL MI 5 UNDER 45
Meet the five inaugural recipients of Music Inc.’s MI 5 Under 45 — a new 40 Under 40-style young leadership program launching this month.
38 I 5 SAAS TOOLS TO INSTALL — NOW
Brighton Music Center’s co-owners Richard Schiemer and Brad Wittmer.
28 I KINDNESS IS KEY Brighton Music Center, NAMM’s 2025 Dealer of the Year, shares its secrets to success, starting with treating people with kindness.
Streamline your MI operations, boost customer satisfaction and stay ahead of the curve with these essential SaaS tools that MI retailers are currently loving.
40 I GUITARS, AMPS & ACCESSORIES 44 I AUDIO & RECORDING 48 I DRUMS & PERCUSSION 49 I BAND & ORCHESTRA 50 I PIANOS, KEYBOARDS & SYNTHESIZERS 51 I DJ & LIGHTING RETAILER ASK THE 54 I ASK THE RETAILER X Retailers share how they stay digitally competitive at their dealerships.
21 I NEXT-GEN RETAILING X Jonathan Hendrix on climbing the MI ladder. 22 I NAMM YP X New YP President Erin Kessler discusses the organization’s impact. 23 I WOMEN OF NAMM X Danielle Collins reflects on her first NAMM Fly-In experience.
16 I INDUSTRY NEWS X NAMM NeXT Moves Online X ACT Entertainment Distributes Avid X Clear Tune Monitors Strikes Deal with Guitar Center X Sweetwater Publishes 2024 Impact Report X Conn Selmer Names New CEO X Hosa Tech Founder Sho Sato Passes Away 12 I INDUSTRY PROFILES X How Belgian brand Invaders Amplification is making a bold push into the U.S. market. X A full recap of the 2025 NAMM Fly-In.
Jonathan Hendrix Erin Kessler
Danielle Collins
Cover photo by Emmanuel Panagiotakis.
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A bout a year ago, the Music Inc. team sat down to plan out the 2025 magazine schedule and the themes for each issue. One item on the docket: launching an MI young leadership awards — something myself and a few others on the team felt our industry was missing. Fast-forward 12 months, and this July issue is a particularly special one because it debuts the recipients of the inaugural MI 5 Under 45 young leadership program. PERSPECTIVE I BY KATIE KAILUS SPOTLIGHTING MI’S NEXT GENERATION
When we hatched the plan to create the MI 5 Under 45, we never anticipated the level of re- sponse we’d receive from both applicants and judges alike. In just 10 days, we collected 96 qualified applications from young profes- sionals across the MI ecosystem, from retailers and manufacturers to distributors and non-profits. We had several MI veterans reach out and ask if they could help judge. As such, we crafted a judging pan- el of six well-respected industry vets, including the president of a synth brand, a former-retailer- turned-consultant and a former NAMM board member. The judges spent just over a week carefully reviewing each submission and scoring them
on a scale from 1–10. The result? A highly competitive, well-rounded inaugural class that showcases just how impressive our industry’s emerg- ing leaders are. Beginning on page 34, we spotlight the five young professionals who earned the highest marks from our judges. Their submissions demonstrate the meaningful, lasting contributions they’ve made — and continue to make — on our industry. This issue honors them. That said, the remaining 90-some applications were equally impressive. In some cases, submissions missed the top five by just a tenth of a point. So, when you turn to page 34 to learn about each recipient and the mark they’re leaving on our industry, remember that this is just a sampling of the well-qualified professionals who applied to be part of the 2025 class. For those not included this year, our judges look forward to review- ing your applications next year and welcoming you into the 2026 class of recipients. If creating the MI 5 Under 45 program taught us anything, it’s that our industry is filled with dedicated, innovative young leaders who are continually moving the dial to make the MI industry one of the most forward-thinking and dynamic spaces in business. MI
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‘Heartfelt Thanks’ on Our 100th O n behalf of everyone at Dietze Music, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks for the wonderful June cover story commemorating our 100th an- niversary. It’s an incredible honor to be featured in Music Inc. and to be recognized in such a mean- ingful way. Being part of this dynamic, passionate industry has been a true privilege over the past cen- tury. Your thoughtful coverage not only celebrated our company’s legacy, but also reflected the spirit of collaboration and commitment that makes the music industry so special. We’re deeply grateful for your support and for the work you do to highlight the people and busi- nesses that share a passion for making music more accessible, inspiring and lasting. Thank you again for helping make this milestone even more memorable.
A Summertime Sales Reminder S ummertime can bring a bit of a slowdown for guitar instruc- tors, but I’ve found that the best cure for the summertime blues is getting creative with what I offer. Fun workshops like ‘Learn to Play Guitar in a Day’ and ‘Yo-Guitar, Yoga for Guitarists’ help people get in tune with guitar playing fun. I’m also not limiting myself to just hosting these workshops on my own. I’m teaming up with gui- tar camps and retreats, including virtual ones, to reach more players — from newbies to experienced guitarists. A little creativity can be the perfect cure to beat those summertime sales blues.
Marlene Hutchinson Founder Marlene’s Music Laguna Hills, California
A Grand Opening to Remember R ound Hill Music was started with the idea of selling pre- mium, high-end guitars, as well as boutique brands. We set up a lifestyle-driven store that’s for everybody, whether it’s someone who’s just strolling in Greenwich to a destination for somebody who’s a high-end buyer looking to grab a custom shop guitar. The grand opening [on May 17] was a huge success. The store was swamped day and night. Peo- ple were playing guitars, we had giveaways, including a Gibson Les Paul. That night, we had a private event with jazz guitarist Mike Stern, which was our first stage activation.
opening the platform through our SDK and marketplace. We want Anagram to be shaped not just by a growing community of brilliant developers and creators. Some of the most compelling features already come from open-source collaborators, and we’re commit- ted to fostering and advocating for this ecosystem. Thank you to everyone supporting this vision. It’s simply incredible. Marcos Barilatti Managing Director Darkglass Electronics Helsinki, Finland Sharing Condolences on the Passing of Hosa’s Sho Sato I opened my Music Inc. [e- newsletter] this morning and was saddened to learn of [Hosa Technology founder] Sho Sato’s passing.
Sho was truly an MI inno- vator and visionary. I may be wrong, but I feel like he was the very first to present adapters and specialty cables in beautifully merchandised packaging, con- sistent throughout the line, and with huge margins. If I close my eyes, I can clearly remember my first meeting with him and our rep, the late Chris Ross. Hosa had a tiny booth but as soon as you stepped into it, you could see the promise. It was one of those things that elicited, “Why didn’t I think of this?” As the years pressed forward, the line grew exponentially. I cherished those meetings that expanded beyond business to family and, of course, food.
Tim Pratt CEO & Owner Dietze Music Lincoln, Nebraska
Looking Ahead to What’s Next R eading the wonderful feed- back from the community every day on our Industry Pro- file in your June 2025 issue has been both humbling and energiz- ing. Since Anagram launched, the response has far surpassed even our most optimistic expec- tations. Every unit we’ve built has shipped, and we’re working hard to keep up with demand and improve availability. We’re incredibly excited about what’s coming next. The upcoming updates will introduce USB audio interface, Bluetooth, MIDI enhancements and essen- tial blocks and utilities. Yet, what we’re most passionate about is
Rob Farella Marketing Manager Round Hill Music Co. Greenwich, Connecticut
EDITOR’S NOTE: MUSIC INC. ENCOURAGES LETTERS AND RESPONSES TO ITS STORIES. EMAIL LETTERS TO EDITOR@MUSICINCMAG.COM.
Lew DiTommaso Training & Merchandising Richard Dean Associates Newburyport, Massachusetts
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INSIDE NEWS > Page 16 NAMM NeXT Moves Online > Page 18 Conn Selmer Names John Fulton its New President, CEO > Page 19 PRS, John Lennon Bus Team Up
from a single, impassioned goal: to build amplifiers that feel like an extension of the musician. Now, Invaders is officially making its push across the Atlantic and staking its claim in the heart of guitar culture — the U.S. “Expanding [into the U.S. market] felt natural,” Deschamps said. “We officially started exploring the U.S. market in late 2023, with our first major push coming at NAMM 2025. The goal wasn’t just to sell our amps — it was to connect directly with players, dealers and artists who share our values of craftsmanship and sonic authenticity.” That distinction matters. For Invaders, the amp acts as a collaborator. Built with traditional analog circuitry but refined with modern versatility, each model is tailored to evolve with the player. Whether someone plays vintage blues, classic rock or metal, Invaders’ amps are designed to breathe with the player — evolving, responding and supporting their musi- cal journey. BREAKING THROUGH THE NOISE As the brand continues to invade the U.S. market, it brings with it a refreshing sense of purpose: to remind American guitar- ists why they fell in love with the amp in the first place. “The response has been incredibly encouraging,” Deschamps said, reflect- ing on Invaders’ early momentum in the U.S. market. “Many American players in- stantly connected with the clarity, power and responsiveness of our amps.” It’s the kind of feedback any boutique builder hopes for, but for Deschamps and his small, independent team, success in the States is about more than just sound. It’s about breaking through the noise of a market dominated by legacy brands and major distributors. “One of the biggest challenges is visibil- ity,” Deschamps explains. “We’re a small
Boutique Belgian brand, Invaders Amplification, is making a bold push into the U.S. market with plans to deepen connections with U.S.-based artists and retailers, launch new gear and introduce tools to help musicians personalize their sound. — By Kimberly Kapela INVADING NEW MARKETS Francois Deschamps
A
fter more than a decade of success in Europe, Belgium-based Invaders Amplification is making some noise in
the American market. Founded by tone enthusiast and head of production Fran- cois Deschamps, the company was born
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brand, and breaking through in such a competitive and brand-loyal market takes time, especially without a big distributor behind us.” Rather than chase mass exposure, In- vaders has been playing the long game. As such, the company is leaning into grassroots growth, focusing on strategic partnerships with dealers who are pas- sionate about its product offerings, as well as artist demos to build trust one relationship at a time. “Each unit is hand-built, tested with care, and designed to stand out both soni- cally and visually,” Deschamps said. “We also offer a high level of customer support, customization options, and a real story behind every product. For retailers looking to offer something different — something that players can fall in love with — In- vaders delivers uniqueness, quality, and margin-friendly pricing that supports boutique-level value.” Among Invaders’ growing U.S. line- up, the 530 BlueVerb Combo has quickly emerged as a standout favorite — particu- larly in its solid wood version, which has turned heads not just for how it sounds, but how it looks. American players appreciate its dynamic response, headroom, and the ability to go from studio to stage without compromise, according to Deschamps. Blending classic American clean tones with rich, harmonically complex overdrive, the 530 BlueVerb bridges the best of both worlds, all while maintaining a distinct European character. “American players love gear that sounds killer but also tells a story — and that’s what this model does,” Deschamps said. AMPLIFIED AMBITIONS Despite the growing buzz, Invaders is just getting started. While their amps are already turning heads in the U.S., the Belgian brand is focused on building something deeper — a lasting, artist-driven community rooted in growth. “One of our key goals is to build stron- ger relationships with U.S.-based artists and local retailers,” Deschamps said. “We believe a solid artistic community is the heart of any long-term presence. Artist collaborations are going to be a major focus for us moving forward in the U.S.” On the innovation side, the company is developing new tools to help players visualize and personalize their gear, giving them more control and creative freedom than ever before.
“We can’t say too much yet,” Des- champs hints, “but it’s all about bringing more creative freedom to the musician.” In terms of hardware, the next chap- ter for Invaders is just as ambitious. The company is gearing up to launch a powerful new 90-watt head equipped with a 3-level power switch, offering players the best of both worlds: mas- sive headroom when they need it, and flexible control for smaller stages or studio sessions. And for those looking to carry a piece of Invaders tone in their
pedalboard, a brand-new overdrive pedal is on the way, designed to capture the rich, responsive voice of their amps in a compact, road-ready format. “Behind every Invaders amp is a real human story,” Deschamps said. “We’re not trying to be the biggest. We’re focused on being the most trusted by musicians who care deeply about their sound. If you’re an artist, a retailer, or just some- one who loves gear that’s made with passion and precision, Invaders is here for you.” MI
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From left: NAMM CEO John Mlynczak, NAMM Chair Chris White, NAMM Treasurer Whitney Brown Grisaffi and NAMM Vice Chair Joe Castronovo.
The 2025 NAMM Fly-In delegates on the Captiol steps.
NAMM TAKES D.C. T he 19th annual NAMM Fly-In took place in Washington, D.C. from May 5–8. Undeterred by the current political climate, more than 90 NAMM members, music-business leaders and partners rep- resenting all 50 states traveled to D.C. to lobby their representatives. This was argu- ably the most consequential Fly-In since the Elementary and Secondary School Act (ESSA) was signed into law in 2015. The result: The large majority of delegates said their nearly 200 meetings with representa- tives and congressional staff across party lines were positive. and monumental work leading up to this [recent Fly-In] in D.C. allowed the nation’s top music industry leaders to harmonize the perfect blend of passion and inspiration to help influence our elected officials.” Day and Traietta said they asked one student, Angelo Taylor, why he sings in the choir. He told them he used to play violin, but him and his mom were evicted from their home and lost their possessions, including his violin. Now he sings, he said, because no one can take his voice from him. Traietta and Day were so touched by Taylor’s story they decided to help. Day called her husband, Day Violin co-owner Jason Day, and by Thursday afternoon, a new violin outfit was delivered to Eastern High School for Taylor. A first-hand account of this year’s NAMM Fly-In from Music Inc.’s veteran Fly-In reporter. — By Myrna Sislen
The Fly-In officially began on May 5, with the annual Day of Service. This year, more than 40 NAMM delegates headed to D.C.’s Eastern High School to listen to the school’s band and chorus perform a mini concert. After the performance, students and professionals gathered in the school atrium, where NAMM members were able to mentor students one-on-one. Students and music industry professionals sat at round tables where they were able to interact and ask questions. Every 10 minutes, delegates would move to a different table, while stu- dents would remain at their own tables. Seated at one table was Jenna Day, owner of Day Violins in Chantilly, Virginia, and Diana Traietta, director of sales for Excel- cia Music Publishing, in Lakeland, Florida.
“We all give every day,” Day said. “[But during this Day of Service, we could] hear and respond in real-time.” PREPPING FOR CAPITOL HILL On May 6, NAMM delegates gathered at the offices of NAMM’s lobbying firm Nelson Mullins for the annual training day. During this day-long session, delegates heard from multiple advocacy leaders to better hone
“The overwhelming positive energy and abundance of ideas and discussions resonating from our industry leaders to our elected officials and respective staff members clearly demonstrated that making more music makers is critical to the future success of communities all over the nation,” said John Mlynczak, NAMM president and CEO. “Our association’s collective effort
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NAMM delegates meet with students at D.C.’s Eastern High School during the Day of Service.
NAMM’s Mlynczak addresses the delegates at the Capitol.
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) speaks to the NAMM delegation.
their “pitch.” A few highlights included an opening panel from Amanda Karhuse, NAFME as- sistant executive director of advocacy and public policy; Claire Kreger-Boaz, NAMM public policy manager; Connie Myers, Nelson Mullins senior policy advisor; and Lynn Tuttle, American String Teachers Association executive director. Their discussion, titled “Understanding Federal Education Fund- ing and Policies,” addressed the importance of keeping funding for music education at the present level of $1.6 billion. That fig- ure would be, in Washington parlance, the “ask” during NAMM’s meetings on Capitol Hill. The panel discussed details of ESSA, in particular, continued funding for Title I, Title II and Title IV Part A. The next panel discussed the economic impact of the arts and included Nina Ozlu Tunceli, Americans for the Arts’ executive director; Claus von Zastrow, Arts Educa- tion Partnership’s assistant director; and David Dik, Young Audiences for Learning National’s executive director. During this discussion, panel members explained the economic power of the $151.7 billion music industry and showed delegates the scope of for-profit and non-profit arts and culture sectors, which represent $1.7 trillion of the nation’s economy and 5.4 million jobs. The keynote speech was delivered by Rep. James E. Clyburn (D-SC), who shared insights from his own music and theater background, which included playing clari- net in his high school marching band and orchestra, as well as the alto saxophone in the school’s dance band. In 2013, NAMM honored Rep. Clyburn with the Support Music Champion award for his leadership and support for music education. On Tuesday evening, NAMM delegates gathered for a reception on the ninth floor rooftop of Nelson Mullins’ offices. During the event, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR)
spoke about work she’s currently doing on pro-music-education legislation with col- leagues on both sides of the aisle. A long- time music and arts supporter, Bonamici has joined nearly every NAMM Fly-In held in Washington, D.C. to date. NAMM TAKES CAPITOL HILL All day Wednesday, NAMM members held nearly 200 meetings with some of Capitol Hill’s most consequential elected leaders. Jeremy Chapman, co-owner of the Acoustic Shoppe in Springfield, Missouri, was attending his first NAMM Fly-In and reported having meetings with staff from the offices of Josh Hawley (R-MO), Robert Onder (R-MO), Eric Schmitt (R-MO) and Eric Burlison (R-MO). Chapman said the NAMM training ses- sion was “a great experience” but he was a little nervous going in. He said he expected pushback, but found everyone to be sup- portive of music education and many had experience with music in their own schools — with Rep. Onder’s staff even saying that if funds were to get cut, Chapman should contact their office for help. Chapman added that all of his meetings “acknowledged the value of music education.” “[I] was pleasantly surprised and did my best to champion the cause,” Chapman said. “I plan to follow up with everyone I met. And Eric Burlison even said he will visit my store.” Erin Kessler, marketing director of Maple Leaf Strings in Ohio, who was attending her second Fly-In, visited the offices of Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Jon Husted (R- OH), Mike Carey (R-OH) and Warren Davidson (R-OH). “[I] found the people we talk[ed] to are still human — and music unites us all,” Kessler said. “Everyone was willing to listen, and no interaction was negative. The offices feel exactly the same as last
year. Nothing crazy going on. Strangely, it boggles my mind. I was preparing for the worst, but I was pleasantly overjoyed and surprised.” Fly-In veteran Lee Raymond, former owner of High Strung Violins and Guitars in Durham, North Carolina, met with the offices of Ted Budd (R-NC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mark Harris (R-NC) and Valerie Foushee (D-NC). Raymond said Rep. Harris’ staffers ques- tioned the propriety of investing federal funds in music education, but after pulling out NAMM’s Careers in Music flyer, which emphasizes employment opportunities in music fields, the meeting back was on track. “This is the crucial year,” Raymond said. “Now that I have sold my business, I have time to go to the PTA meetings and advocate.” This year’s Fly-In was potentially best summed up by Jenna Day, who is also a NAMM board member. “This year marked my 10th NAMM Fly- In, and I’m filled with gratitude to be part of an organization so deeply committed to ensuring that all children have access to a quality music education,” Day said. “It’s a mission that transcends politics and personal beliefs — a cause rooted in the well-being and future of our students. What struck me most was how, regardless of who you are or what you believe, the Fly-In created a space for listening, for reaching across the aisle, coming together — something we don’t do often enough in today’s world.” “Advocating for music education is an industry-wide effort,” Mlynczak added. “It’s not just an event for the people who were in D.C. in May. It continues to unfold the rest of the year. Everyone in the industry should come once. Everyone who attended this year did not regret it.” NAMM is set to announce the date and schedule for the 2026 NAMM Fly-In later this year. MI
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NAMM NEXT MOVES ONLINE N AMM announced on May 27 that its NAMM NeXT event will transition from also encouraged attendees who booked flights and cannot receive a refund or a credit for future travel to contact them.
an in-person event to an online event based on conservations and industry feedback from a recent survey it sent out. “As we’ve seen throughout our 124- year history, times of great change for the world and our industry require NAMM to adapt to the needs of our members,” John Mlynczak, NAMM president and CEO, said in the cancellation announcement. “There’s no question that we are living through an- other such moment, with rapid changes in trade and our economy impacting businesses. We have heard from many of you that your businesses are managing all expenses and travel very carefully right now, and being out of the office is difficult during the next 90 days or more.” Instead of an in-person event, NAMM
“We do not want you to incur any ad- ditional costs from this cancellation, as we greatly appreciate your support in register- ing early for this event,” Mlynczak said. “NAMM is first and foremost a member- focused organization and responsive to the needs of the industry to help our member- ship be more successful. We understand that NAMM events are a cherished occasion for our music community to gather and network, and this decision was not taken lightly. We believe that pivoting from the live NAMM NeXT event and providing complimentary online education to all NAMM members is the best use of time and resources right now as we navigate these new challenges together.” {namm.org} “This is a landmark moment for ACT Entertainment,” said James Oliver, ACT’s senior vice president of strategic partnerships. “Our goal is to build the resources and support network needed to serve the live sound market at the highest level. We’re proud to have the opportunity to bring ACT’s dedication for excellence to Avid’s live sound solutions.” Among the products that ACT will represent is Avid’s Venue | S6L System. Venue delivers flexibility, reliability and sound quality. The teams recently met at ACT’s Cincinnati location to kick off the collaboration with console demonstrations and discussions surrounding streamlining distribution processes, to ensure every cus- tomer receives a fully supported, plug-and- play Avid experience from the start. “Partnering with ACT Entertainment empowers us to reach more live sound professionals with the tools they need to deliver unforgettable performances,” said Wellford Dillard, Avid’s CEO. “ACT shares our commitment to innovation and excel- lence. Together, we’re not only distributing premium live performance solutions, but building a stronger, more responsive experi- ence for the live sound community. ACT’s expertise and infrastructure will allow us to deliver our VENUE systems with the speed and support our customers expect.” {avid.com; actentertainment.com}
NeXT will pivot to offer the three most time- sensitive presentations online for all NAMM members, covering global trade, the future of global economic growth and leadership strategies to navigate disruption. This content will be made available on July 1. NAMM NeXT attendees will be receiving a full refund for their registration fees, and NAMM will take care of cancelling hotel reservations at the event location. NAMM
From left: ACT Entertainment’s James Oliver and Joe Langholt with Avid’s Chant Peck and Matt Lawrence. Avid Names ACT Entertainment as its New U.S. Distributor A CT Entertainment has announced it is now the U.S. distributor for Avid’s live sound portfolio.
another major step forward in our strategic initiative to build the ACT Entertainment portfolio with class-leading solutions across all categories of entertainment technology,” said Ben Saltzman, ACT’s CEO. “We have long admired Avid’s commitment to inno- vation, and we believe this collaboration marks a very exciting chapter for both Avid and ACT Entertainment. Collectively, we bring together some of the most passionate professionals in the world for the benefit of our shared customer base.”
ACT Entertainment has a history of building infrastructure and market presence for premium brands, such as Ayrton, MA Lighting and PK Sound. This new partner- ship represents a significant expansion in Avid’s U.S. strategy and underscores its commitment to serving the professional live sound community. “The partnership with Avid represents
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ARTIST APPROVED
Sweetwater Publishes 2024 Impact Report S weetwater has released its 2024 Impact Report. Carrying out its mission to “al- participation in professional development programs.
The R&B guitarist, who defines his sound as ‘electric soul,’ talks Gibson Flying Vs, Chroma Con- soles and more. JORDAN HAWKINS Music Inc.: What was your first instrument? JORDAN HAWKINS: An Epiphone Les Paul Standard. MI: Very nice. What would you say is your all-time favorite guitar? JH: My all-time favorite would be the Gibson Flying V. The action is set per- fectly so it literally feels like I’m flying all over the fretboard when I play it. It has a rockstar quality to it, and the tone that I’m able to achieve with it lends itself to the electric soul music I create. MI: What gear is currently in your arsenal? JH: Currently, I’m playing the Flying V, a Yamaha Pacifica, a Fender Stratocaster 1970s remodel and Taylor GS Mini. It’s nice having a few good options just in case you want to pick up something different for inspiration’s sake when recording and writing. MI: Are there any new or emerging pieces of gear you’ve recently tried that have caught your atten- tion or inspired you in the music-making process? JH: My favorite piece of creative gear right now is the Chroma Console by Hologram. I’ve been able to get endless tones out of it, and it’s become a staple in songs I pro- duce for myself and others. The secondary controls open up the possibility to turn the guitar into other instruments completely, and the standard tones offer distortions and modulations that include both things that guitarists would consider traditional, like distortion or fuzz, and also unfamiliar and innovative options like Broken, Howl and Collage. — By Kimberly Kapela
ways do the right thing,” Sweetwater’s 2024 report showcases strides in the categories of People and Employee Wellbeing, Com- munity, and Environmental and Supply Chain Responsibility. “All that we do centers around build- ing relationships that positively impact the lives of our employees, our customers, our partners and our communities,” said Mike Clem, Sweetwater’s CEO. “Just as creating great music is an ever-evolving process, we are always striving to expand our impact.” In 2024, Sweetwater earned national accolades its workplace, its culture and its professional development opportunities. Highlights of the company’s 2024 efforts include: Earning 10 Comparably Awards; and increasing employee engagement and
Through its Amplifying Change phil- anthropic platform, Sweetwater’s efforts center on caring for the music makers of today and tomorrow. More specifically, in 2024 the company donated nearly $1 mil- lion in philanthropic giving to its nonprofit partners; provided 42 under-resourced public schools across the country with tools and a curriculum to explore music creation through Save the Music Foundation’s J Dilla Music Technology grants; and more. In 2024, Sweetwater also sought out ways to protect the planet and to build a sustainable future, including generating 1.4 million kilowatt hours of electricity across 93,000 feet of solar panels on the roof of Sweetwater’s Fort Wayne Fulfill- ment Center. {sweetwater.com}
JOHN PACKER WINS KING’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE
J ohn Packer Musical Instru- ments, the U.K.-based mu-
legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognizing outstanding U.K. businesses. Rob Hanson, managing di- rector of John Packer Musical Instruments, will now be invited to attend a royal reception at Windsor Castle.
sical instrument manufacturer, distributor and retailer, has won the King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade cat- egory, recognizing the interna- tional growth of the business. The company was announced as a recipient of the honor on May 6. This is the second time JP Musical Instru- ments has won the award, having received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category in 2018. The King’s Awards for Enterprise, pre- viously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed in 2023 to reflect The King’s desire to continue the
John Packer Musical Instruments’ managing director Rob Hanson.
“To win the King’s Award for Enter- prise in International Trade for a second time is a huge honor for JP Musical Instru- ments,” Hanson said. “The business has grown demonstrably over the past few years, welcoming prestigious brands to our stable, and showing a tremendous level of agility and resilience in what is a fast-paced and continually-evolving international trading landscape.” {johnpacker.co.uk}
JULY 2025 I MUSIC INC. I 17
CONN SELMER NAMES JOHN FULTON PRESIDENT, CEO C onn Selmer has appointed John Fulton as president and CEO.
Asia Pacific, marketing and the division of education. “I’m honored to step into the role of CEO,” Fulton said. “As Conn Selmer continues to expand globally, we remain firmly rooted in our U.S.-based manufacturing
He succeeds Stephen Zapf, who had led the company since 2019. Fulton brings more than 28 years of music industry experi- ence, including the past eight
D’Addario Opens New Artist Lounge at CenterStaging Studios in Los Angeles D ’Addario has announced the opening of its new Artist Lounge at CenterStaging Studios in Los Angeles. The new Artist Lounge is designed as a casual, welcoming environment for musicians who are based in or traveling through Los Angeles. Whether artists are seeking insights about gear, aiming to refine their sound, or looking to optimize their instruments, the Artist Lounge provides the ideal setting to engage with D’Addario’s team of experts. To celebrate the opening, D’Addario hosted an exclusive artist party at CenterStaging on April 24. In attendance were Jim D’Addario, board chairman and chief innovation officer; John D’Addario III, CEO; and D’Addario’s AR team. Artist guests included Brian Frasier Moore, Dirk Verbeuren, Brittany Bowman and more. {ddar.io/center-staging}
John Fulton
years in senior leadership roles at Conn Selmer. Most recently, he served as se- nior vice president, overseeing sales and customer service for the Americas and
and committed to delivering instruments that reflect our 750 years of combined brand heritage while setting new standards for quality and performance.” {connselmer.com}
JENNIFER THAYER JOINS MUSIC & ARTS AS PRESIDENT G uitar Center has named Jen- nifer Thayer president of
US, STG Logistics (through an acquisition of XPO) and Lowe’s Home Improvement. As president, Thayer will help drive performance across Music & Arts’ retail, lessons and rental channels; strengthen relation-
Music & Arts, its B&O arm. In this role, Thayer will lead the strategic direction, operations and growth of Music & Arts’ more than 250 stores.
Jennifer Thayer
With more than 25 years of leadership experience, Thayer has held senior roles across retail, logistics, sales and customer experience at companies including, Harvia
ships with educators and schools; and advance the mission to expand access to music education through innovation and community engagement. {musicarts.com}
GUITAR CENTER ADDS 2 TO ITS MUSIC EDUCATION TEAM G uitar Center has added two leaders to its les-
vice president of education and training. He has led instruc- tional strategy, driven talent development and shaped stu- dent-centered learning models. Kushner is known as a
FOUNDER OF HOSA TECHNOLOGY PASSES AWAY S ho Sato, founder of Hosa Technol-
sons team: educator Giovan- ni “John” Bianchette as vice president of music educa- tion and Grammy-winning guitarist Dave Kushner as senior director of music education experience. Bianchette is an educator who brings public and private sector experience from leadership roles at Mathnasium, including
Giovanni “John” Bianchette and Dave Kushner.
ogy, passed away on May 15 in Whittier, California. He was 81. Born on Nov. 27, 1943, in Yokohama,
founding member of rock supergroup Velvet Revolver and brings decades of stage, studio and education experience to his new role where he’ll energize the curriculum and content for students. {guitarcenter.com}
Sho Sato
Japan, Sato moved to the U.S. at the age of 25 with only a few dollars in his pocket. In 1984, with nothing but a borrowed desk and telephone, he founded Hosa Technology. Under his leadership, Hosa grew into one of the most respected and recognizable com- panies in the music and pro-audio industries. Sato’s legacy continues through the com- pany he built and the people he inspired. In recent years, he passed the torch to his daughter, Mayumi Allison, who now leads Hosa with the same mission her father held dear: to create reliable connectivity solutions with unparalleled service, passion and care. Sato is survived by his two daughters, Mayumi and Yuki, and his grandchildren, Dylan, Rhys and Alexa. {hosatech.com}
SOUNDPRO EXPANDS SALES TEAM SIGNALING GROWTH AHEAD S oundPro has made several appoint- ments to its sales team. Doug Kliever, a 25-year industry veteran, has been pro- moted to director of sales.
To further strengthen customer sup- port, SoundPro has added five new ac- count managers: Martin Vire , Davion Elliott, Abraham Velasquez, Austin Bell and Darius Jones. Supporting this expanded team is Tif- fany Stalker, the newly appointed director
of marketing and sales enablement. With more than 15 years of industry experience, Stalker will enhance outreach and partner collaboration. {soundpro.com}
18 I MUSIC INC. I JULY 2025
Paul Reed Smith, PRS Guitars’ founder and managing general partner, helped to mentor the students, who were writing an original song and recording it in the mobile recording studio. Beyond monetary spon- sorship support, PRS has also donated a selection of guitars to the bus for students to use. “This partnership highlights our shared priority of music education and provides opportunities for developing musicians to get their hands on exceptional equipment in a professional recording experience,” said Bev Fowler, PRS Guitars director of artist and community relations. “We look forward to an exciting year ahead!” “The Lennon Bus is dedicated to provid- ing the next generation of creators with access to the finest that the industry has to offer,” said Brian Rothschild, co-founder and executive director of the bus. “We’re proud to showcase the craftsmanship and killer design of PRS Guitars within all of our events and sessions across the U.S.” {prsguitars.com}
PRS Becomes Exclusive Electric Guitar Sponsor of John Lennon Educational Tour Bus P RS Guitars has announced its partner- sorship officially kicked off with PRS Guitars hosting the bus, crew and several local high school music students at its Stevensville, Maryland, factory in early June. Students visit the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus during its stop at PRS Guitars’ headquarters. ship with the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus as the exclusive electric guitar sponsor into the spring of 2026. The spon-
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20 I MUSIC INC. I JULY 2025
> Page 22 NAMM YP > Page 23 Women of NAMM
NEXT-GEN RETAILING I BY JONATHAN HENDRIX CLIMBING THE MI LADDER
“C limbing the lad- der” is a phrase that’s commonly used within the workplace, regardless of the industry. I’ve found that most people need to see a path for professional growth and opportunity within their ca- reer, and the most ambitious tend to have aspirations of climbing the proverbial ladder within their busi- ness. This can look different from industry to industry and business to business, but the concept is ac- tively present in the vast majority of work environments. So, if you’re interested in step- ping onto the next rung of your company’s preverbial ladder, here are three ways I’ve managed to work my way from a part-time sales associate to COO of Spicer’s Music in Auburn, Alabama, in just seven years. Hopefully, this will assist you in climbing yours. 1. I GAVE MAXIMUM EFFORT FROM DAY ONE. If you’re not willing to give your all in the lowest position of your business, why should anyone expect you to at the highest? I started on the very bottom rung of our business, but I treated it like the top rung. A trap that I see many with great potential fall into is feeling that certain tasks or roles are beneath them. If you truly want to be a leader, no task or role should be be- neath you and you should give
play a larger role within our business, I made sure to make my intentions known, but I didn’t press in a way that cre- ated any kind of unhealthy pres- sure or accelerated growth that the business was not currently prepared to facilitate. I did my best to live in the moment and not rush. Whatever role I was in, I was solely focused on doing the absolute best job within that role that I could. By trusting in the process, I was able to demonstrate stability and show that I truly valued the roles that I was in at the time. I was never perfect at this, and I certainly still am not today. My feet slipped on the rungs plenty of times, but I kept my focus and I stayed true to who I was and who I felt the business needed me to be in the moment. When I look back on the last seven years, starting as a part-time sales associate to now the COO of Spicer’s Music, these are the top three practical pieces of advice I could offer that I could look back on and know how greatly they impacted my professional trajectory. The last piece of advice that I will give is this: enjoy the climb! The journey truly is just as im- portant as the destination. MI Jonathan Hendrix is the COO of Spicer’s Music in Auburn, Alabama. When he’s not running the day-to-day operations of the store, he’s usually behind his grill or his P bass.
“I started on the very bottom rung of our business, but I treated it like the top rung.”
each of them your full effort. This is key to defining and dis- playing your work ethic to your superiors and it demonstrates how it will translate when pro- moted to higher level positions within your business. 2. I ASKED HOW I COULD HELP. It really was as simple as it sounds. If it was slow around the shop and I had completed all of my tasks for the day, I would knock on our owner’s office and
ask how I could help or if there was anything I could take off of his plate. I expressed my desire to shoulder more weight and make the best use of my time. This is another indicator to your superiors and those you work with that you are eager and prepared to do what it takes to help the business succeed and grow in a larger capacity. 3. I WAS PATIENT. As eager as I was to climb and
JULY 2025 I MUSIC INC. I 21
NAMM YP I BY ERIN KESSLER From Mentee to President: Why NAMM YP Matters
W hen I joined the NAMM Young Professionals (YP) Board in 2022, I snapped a photo with Jeremy Payne, who was in his second year as president, and Jeremy McQueary, a past president. I didn’t know it then, but that moment quietly marked the beginning of my path toward leadership. At that same NAMM show, Jeremy Payne and I sat down for a long, honest conversation about why NAMM YP mattered — why
connect with each other, engage with the NAMM organization and provide additional support for young professionals who might otherwise be overlooked. Stepping into this role isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about listening and creating space for others to grow, lead and thrive. I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors in the industry, including Gary Winder and former NAMM CEO Joe Lamond. Both challenged and encouraged me in ways that shaped who I am today. As the first female president under the NAMM Young Profes- sionals name, I carry that with pride, but also with perspective. This role isn’t about me. It’s about how far we’ve come and how we keep that momentum going by making space for new voices, fresh ideas and different perspec- tives. Representation matters, and I’m proud to lead that shift. NAMM YP to be called NAYMM — the National Asso- ciation of Young Music Merchants. The name changed and so has our industry. We see broader defini- tions of professionalism, diverse career paths and growing recogni- tion that leadership can look in many different ways. NAMM YP has never been about job titles. It’s about passionate people who show up, lift each other up and build something bigger than themselves. If you’re ready to be part of that, NAMM YP has a place for you — and we’re excited for what we’ll create together. MI
he joined, what drew him to serve and how mentorship had shaped his own career path. That conversation has always stuck with me. It reminded me that the NAMM community is built by people who continually show up, not for themselves, but to lift others — and I wanted to be one of those people. Now, as I step into the role of president of NAMM YP, I feel a deep sense of responsibility — and gratitude — for the opportunity to give that same sense of support and possibility back. I also want to recognize the im- pact of NAMM YP’s past president, Michael Santander. His leadership helped strengthen NAMM YP in tangible ways, from expanding
A note from NAMM YP’s new president.
member benefits to deepening our relationships through collabo- ration with NAMM and the broader industry. He worked with intention and care, focusing on building more value for NAMM members. Because of the groundwork Michael laid, we’re stepping into a new chapter with more momentum, along with a stronger sense of what this community can ultimately become. I’m proud to build on that foundation and continue creating space for young professionals to connect, grow and lead with the NAMM YP Board of Directors. As we look forward, my focus is simple: deepen existing connec- tions, expand access and awareness of NAMM YP, and ensure that every member sees a place for themselves here, whether they’re new to the industry or figuring out what leadership means for them. The foundation of NAMM YP is built on three pillars: mentor- ship, education and networking. I aim to keep growing each pillar, not just maintaining what NAMM YP has done, but expanding it in ways not even imagined yet. This means new opportunities to
Erin Kessler is the newly appointed president of NAMM YP and marketing director of Maple Leaf Strings.
22 I MUSIC INC. I JULY 2025
WOMEN OF NAMM I BY DANIELLE COLLINS Capitol Conversations, Local Impact
A fter two decades in the classroom, I’ve spent my career building programs, mentoring students, and navigating what it really takes to make music education work. Now, through work in my new role with Inspire EDU, I support schools and districts working to expand access to creative learning. This spring, I traveled to Washington, D.C. for NAMM’s annual Fly-In to meet with lawmakers and advocate for the kinds of programs I’ve seen change lives. BUILDING THE CASE TOGETHER Before we stepped into any meet- ings, NAMM brought us together for a packed day of policy brief- ings and strategic preparation. The speakers offered sharp, practical context on how current legislation is shaping arts access, and what strong advocacy looks like in action. We were given sup- port on current programming that NEA grants support in districts across the country, to cite the need for NEA. We were given data that supported our ask, and context for the offices to which we were entering, learning about our members of Congress’ focus and stance on myriad subjects. This provided the framework for our ask and gave me the confi- dence to hold a conversation in the five meetings I attended. CONVERSATIONS MOVING WORK FORWARD Throughout the trip, I connect- ed with women who lead from different angles — small busi- nesses, product development, community arts programs—and who spoke about their work
with clarity and purpose. We talked about our hometowns, how we’re expanding programs, and where there’s still work to do. They gave me connections that build on my work, support that’s mutual, and growth shaped by sharing what we know. I came away from every interaction with something useful—an idea, a contact, a way to think differently. Selfishly, I came back inspired and excited to do more work with NAMM members! POLICY WITH PURPOSE Meeting with Representative Robert Garcia’s team stood out. I’ve
known him as a leader in my local community, and now as a voice in Congress. I was given support with other members from my state, many of whom ac- companied me to the meetings. Talking through the role of music education with his staff felt natural because I’ve spent my career making that case — first as a teacher, now as a partner helping schools build sustainable programs. I’ve had these conversations in staff rooms, district offices, and school board meetings. Sit- ting across from federal staff felt like a natural extension of that same work — with bigger stakes and broader reach. It was easy to see the office’s interest, quickly scribing notes when I shared how music education and workforce readiness are a through-line, and realizing that supporting
arts programs leads to higher attendance in schools, among other workforce-prep- aration tools gained. YOUR TURN If every NAMM member took one meeting a year with their district’s local congressional office, the impact would multiply fast. Ask for support of Title I, Title II, and Title IV funding, giving support to a well-rounded
First-time delegate Danielle Collins reflects on her NAMM Fly-In experience.
education, student success and teacher development. One real story from your city can shift how a policymaker sees the role of music in education. It grounds the funding conversation in something personal, local and lasting. The Fly-In was an opportunity to speak on a national level — but the follow-up happens in our hometowns. Keep the door open. Share what you know. The work continues everywhere! MI Danielle Collins is a nonprofit arts leader and director of arts, media and entertain- ment at Inspire EDU. After 20 years in the classroom, Collins now works with schools and districts to build student-centered arts programs. At Inspire EDU, she leads ini- tiatives in arts curriculum design, work-based learning, grant support, and profes- sional development — helping align arts instruction with real-world industry standards, pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pathways, and certification models that reflect the future of the creative industries. She is also a member of Women of NAMM.
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