relationships by using data responsibly; leverage AI tools to boost productiv - ity; and make smarter decisions that maximize ROI on marketing dollars. 12–12:30 p.m. How to Win with Influencer Marketing in 2026 NAMM Idea Center Bri Gonzales of Yamaha In this session, Bri Gonzales, former You - Tube creator and now Yamaha’s manager of social media, will share proven tactics for tapping into the creator economy. Discover how to spot the right influencers, build partnerships that feel authentic and drive real-world results for your store while helping collaborators find their way to you. 12–1 p.m. Proven Strategies for Smart, Scalable Retail Growth NAMM Idea Center Eric Matzat of Alliance of Independent Music Merchants In this session, AIMM executive director Eric Matzat will share practical strategies to help attendees navigate retail expan - sion with confidence and clarity. Drawing from real-world experience, he’ll cover how to negotiate smarter leases, man - age operational strain, support team culture across multiple locations and safeguard cash flow during acquisitions.
ney of a healthy lesson program but also shows listeners how to measure performance at every step, from the first inquiry to long-term enrollment. 2–3 p.m. 2026 Instagram Reels Strategies for Music Brands (Double Session) NAMM Idea Center Jenn Herman, Instagram Expert Whether in retail or manufacturing, Instagram is a powerful marketing tool to connect with audiences and custom - ers — and in today’s landscape, Reels is a critical aspect of that strategy. Jenn Herman will share tactics and tips to help retailers get more reach, improve reten - tion time and drive engagement on Reels. 3–3:30 p.m. Thomas Ripsam of Martin Guitars & panel Join Martin Guitar CEO Thomas Ripsam and industry leaders from top companies for an inside look at how retailers and man - ufacturers can create immersive, authentic and emotionally resonant connections that inspire musicians and strengthen brand loyalty in the modern experience economy. 3–4 p.m. NAMM Milestone Awards Reception The Experience Economy: Redefining Retail & Brand Connection for Musicians NAMM Idea Center
1–1:30 p.m. 3 Proven Ways to Modernize Your Store in a Digital World NAMM Idea Center Mike & Miriam Risko of Mike Risko Music School Join Mike and Miriam Risko of Mike Risko Music School, and find out how one successful indie retailer implemented three powerful strategies: showroom curation with smart kiosk integration, immersive live performance spaces that double as content hubs and streamlined distribution strategies that expand in - ventory without expanding overhead. 1–2 p.m. The State of the Piano Industry: Where We Were, Where We Are & Where We’re Headed NAMM Member Center Tim Paul Join an engaging and forward-thinking panel of music industry professionals as they explore the current and future landscape of the piano business, includ - ing promoting, selling and teaching. 1:30–2 p.m. Strategies for Long-Term Lesson
Program Growth NAMM Idea Center Rory Cain of Opus 1
Join lessons expert Rory Cain of Opus1 as he breaks down the customer jour -
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