I t’s our January issue, which means it’s also our annual NAMM Show Plan- ning Guide. Aside from show highlights and the schedule of events, this issue also features a cover story on NAMM’s new chairman, Chris White of White House of Music — a perfect fit for this show-focused issue as the interview centers on connection, a cornerstone of The NAMM Show. In our conversation with White, which starts on page 36, he says he hopes the legacy he leaves as NAMM’s chair is one that NAMM listens PERSPECTIVE I BY KATIE KAILUS MAKE THOSE NAMM CONNECTIONS COUNT
to its members. His top goal while in the role? To help NAMM members, both large and small, make quality connections within the industry. “To understand what makes [NAMM members] tick, we ask, ‘How does NAMM add value for everyone in our industry?’ I think the answer comes down to helping members make connections,” White says in the coverage. An apt goal for this month’s NAMM Show Planning Guide issue. And one that NAMM YP featured columnist Angelica Pri- machenko shares in her column on creating content at The NAMM Show on page 30. “One of the best parts of being a creator is realizing you’re surrounded by people
who understand the same creative rhythm,” she shares. “Don’t hesitate to start a conversation. Ask what others are working on, share ideas or cap- ture a quick clip. Collaboration sparks ideas. Partnering with others helps you learn new techniques, gain fresh perspectives and find inspiration in someone else’s process.” Networking can be scary. Showing up to an event without your team by your side can be intimidating. But The NAMM Show is a much more rewarding experience when you leave with new contacts, and maybe even a few new friends. For first-timers, Women of NAMM is holding its First-Time Attendee Meetup at the start of the show on Thursday at 10 a.m. in the NAMM Member Center. For those under 40 looking to network, NAMM YP is holding its annual Networking Reception on Thursday at 5 p.m. on the Hilton Lanai Patio. If you’re in the pro-audio industry, the annual Pro-Audio Pool Party, held at the Marriott Pool Deck on Friday at 6 p.m., provides the perfect atmosphere to meet others in the same industry vertical. All three events offer great opportunities to expand your circle and create new NAMMily members. For show veterans, strike up a convo with the folks sitting next to you in the Ideas Center before a session starts or choose a table at the Breakfast Sessions with new faces. Come ready to shake a hand, share an idea and meet someone unexpected, because at The NAMM Show, connection is the real headliner. MI
8 I MUSIC INC. I JANUARY 2026
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