Sharing Our Sho-Bud Dealer Program W e’d like to thank [editorial assistant] Kimberly Ka- pela, and the team at Music Inc. magazine for sharing our story in the May 2026 issue regarding the return of Mosrite under the Sho-Bud family. We’re humbled by the excitement in the industry around these two iconic brands coming back to market, and are committed to maintaining the unique tonal qualities and crafts- manship associated with each of these legendary guitar names. We’re also looking forward to adding dealers to our Team Sho- Bud Dealer Program, as we still believe it’s important that people touch, feel and hear an instrument before buying. It’s through these trusted dealers where customers can have their instruments serviced, learn to maintain them and even learn to properly play them. Sho- Bud would like to support music stores, especially the indie dealers, by enhancing product offerings, service and instructional opportuni- ties, as well as clinics, workshops and in-store showcases.
future generations have access to music and the arts. Another highlight of the week was helping organize the NAMM Jam, bringing musicians from all over the country together to col- laborate, perform and connect through live music. Most had never played together before, yet by the end of the evening it felt like they had known each other for years. In many ways, that spirit of con- nection reflected the entire Fly-In.
Mike & Miriam Risko Owners Mike Risko Music Ossining, New York
Music Education Needs All of Us “W hat do we do, and why does it matter?” These are the most common questions my [cus- tomers] ask. In essence, we influ- ence decision-makers: legislators, senators and government agencies that help shape educational stan- dards across the country. Through the collective voice of NAMM, we’re able to encourage them, hold them accountable to the promises they made last year, and remind them that music education directly benefits our society. Federal education legislation now says, “Music is part of a well- rounded education.” We had a part in that clarification. The funding allocated to ESSA Title IV, Part A has grown steadily, just as we have requested. As cool as that is, engaging with members of Congress and their staff- ers and learning what role music education played in their lives has been a great encouragement to me.
ticipating in the 20th NAMM Fly- In to Washington, D.C., where 100-plus industry members came together to advocate for music education and student access to music programs. While our world continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the value music brings to the world, but most especially, young people. Beyond learning an instrument, music fosters so much more, in- cluding creativity, confidence, perseverance, collaboration and connection. These qualities matter more than ever. I’m grateful to work in an industry that helps create those opportunities and supports the next generation of musicians. I’m so thankful to all of those who dedicated their time and efforts this year — and for the past 20 years. If any of your subscribers are reading this letter and interested in seeing what it
is like, I encourage them to join us to “take to the Hill” next year.
Jake Connolly CEO & Owner Connolly Music East Northport, New York Advocating for the Next Generation R epresenting New York at May’s NAMM Fly-In for the third year was a meaningful reminder of why we do what we do. Through our music school, music store, performances and work in our community, we see every day how music changes lives. Having the opportunity to share those stories on Capitol Hill and advocate for music education was both an honor and a responsibility. It was inspir- ing to stand alongside educators, musicians, industry leaders and advocates from across the country who are all working to ensure that
Dawn & Will Jackson Owners Sho-Bud Nashville, Tennessee
Advocacy in Action T hank you to Music Inc. for the opportunity to participate in the June 2026 From The Top article. It was fun to share a few personal insights alongside some thoughts on our industry and the relation- ships that continue to make it such a rewarding one to be part of. One of the things I value most about the MI community is that it has always been built on more than products and business transactions — at its core is a shared belief in the power of music and the com- munity it creates. I recently returned from par-
J. Scott Mandeville President Tim’s Music Carmichael, California
EDITOR’S NOTE: MUSIC INC. ENCOURAGES LETTERS AND RESPONSES TO ITS STORIES. EMAIL LETTERS TO EDITOR@MUSICINCMAG.COM.
12 I MUSIC INC. I JULY 2026
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