WOMEN OF NAMM I BY MIRANDA ALTMAN Investing in the Full Journey of Music Leaders
“M usic class made me realize what I’m capable of” were words spoken recently from one of our middle schoolers at an Edu- cation Through Music partner school PS 223 in the Bronx. Op- portunities for connection and education often reveal our true potential — sometimes before we even realize it ourselves. Whether it’s a student picking up an instrument for the first time or a professional stepping into a leadership role they never imagined, the right resources and support can dramatically change the course of a life. Throughout my career, I’ve been dedicated to building equi- table access to music education, frequently collaborating with com- panies and organizations in the music products industry to create synergies that advance this mis- sion. This belief lies at the heart of my work — both in classrooms in underserved New York City com- munities with Education Through Music (ETM) and in professional development spaces facilitated by Women of NAMM. At ETM, I’ve witnessed first- hand how high-quality music education can empower students by building confidence, fostering creativity and increasing academic achievement. I’ve come to believe that building the future of the mu- sic industry starts in the classroom. But the journey doesn’t stop there. While 85% of our ETM students report increased self-
confidence from participating in music class, we must ask: What happens to these gains as they navigate careers in industries where they’re often underrepresented? Over the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of facilitating Women of NAMM’s Deep Dive virtual sessions. These bimonthly webinars provide professional development and community-building opportunities for women in all areas of the music products industry. Each session meets
participants where they are, offering tools, insights and a space to grow. In every session, I hear reflec- tions that echo what I’ve seen in classrooms: “This is the first time I’ve felt like I belonged.” PLANTING SEEDS, NURTURING GROWTH In many ways, my work with ETM and Women of NAMM represents two ends of the same spectrum. One focuses on early access — providing underserved students with the resources to engage meaningfully with music. The other is about sustaining opportu- nity — ensuring that underrepresented women in the music industry have the support and visibility they need to thrive. Together, these efforts form a pathway for equity: planting seeds early and nurtur- ing growth throughout one’s career.
I’ve witnessed the transformative power of this work. I’ve seen a shy fifth-grader become a confident mentor to her peers, and a woman who once doubted her place in the industry go on to lead major initiatives. I’ve experienced the profound impact of being part of communi- ties that actively create space — where doors aren’t just opened, but held open for others. When we commit to music education for all, we’re not just developing future musicians — we’re cultivating future leaders, innovators and
“When we commit to music education for all, we’re not just developing future musicians — we’re cultivating future leaders.”
consumers of music products. By creating professional development opportunities for women and other traditionally underrepresented groups in the industry, we’re expanding the talent pool. As we look to the future of the music products industry, we must take a holistic approach. By investing in education — whether in a classroom of elementary schoolers in New York City’s most underserved communities or in a group of emerging female leaders in the music industry — we’re shaping a more vibrant, inclusive and sustainable ecosystem. So, let’s continue building, opening doors early and often — for everyone. MI Miranda Altman is the COO of Education Through Music and a member of Women of NAMM.
JUNE 2025 I MUSIC INC. I 27
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