The Summer NAMM experience
It’s hard to describe the Summer NAMM show to someone who hasn’t been there. While trade shows are familiar to most of us, this one is different. Yes, there are vendors from all over the country. There are music retailers, craftsmen and luthiers, technology companies, sound companies…. and even insurance companies! But the flavor of this trade show is different. In the midst of selling instruments, striking deals, and seeing the “latest and greatest”, there are also musicians. And music. From everywhere, there is a continual stream of music in the air. There is cacophony and noise, but when you listen closely the noise resolves into a drummer in one corner, a guitarist in another, and string players in between. Guitar riffs and piano concertos together make up the soundtrack of the NAMM experience.
There is a level of passion at NAMM that is absent from the many other trade shows that I’ve attended through the years. Musicians love what the do. Whether it’s a retail store, a repair shop, a custom luthier or an equipment dealer – just start asking questions about what they do. You will hear impassioned responses and enthusiastic stories. Every story is unique, and no two businesses are alike. The energy is contagious.
Musicians wander through just to try the instruments on display. Music teachers, student prodigies, sound technicians, studio owners, chain retailers and small business start-ups all rub shoulders. They all attend for different reasons – to learn, to see what’s new, to play, to listen, to do business. But no matter their reason for attendance, the shared love for music is held in common.
Photos from Nashville
Here is a glimpse, although it doesn’t do justice to the true excitement of the show.


