SUNY Oneonta’s Music Industry students continued a longstanding tradition in late January, touring the world’s largest not-for-profit music expo and trade show, The NAMM Show, in Anaheim, Calif.
The NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show, held Jan. 21-25 at the Anaheim Convention Center, brought together leaders, innovators, experts, artists and creators from the music products, pro audio and sound, and entertainment technology industries for a rousing reunion. Despite the damage caused by the Southern California wildfires, air quality remained safe all week, with no fire-related impact on Anaheim or the surrounding areas.
Fifteen SUNY Oneonta Music Industry majors and Music Industry Club members traveled with Associate Professor Paul Carter to Anaheim for three days of product introductions and demonstrations, educational sessions and panel discussions, and – perhaps most importantly – networking and inspiration.
“The highlight of my NAMM trip this year was getting my first brand endorsement as a drummer and artist,” said Aidan Loeffler, a Music Industry major. “I met the brand No Nuts cymbal sleeves at NAMM last year, and have been using them since. I got an endorsement from them this year, which I am extremely excited about! It is one of the first big steps in my career as a drummer!”
Students enjoyed special events, live music and celebrity appearances while exploring the latest industry trends through demonstrations, panel discussions and educational sessions on modern marketing techniques. They also tested new products from over 4,000 brands, including Roland electronic drum sets, Ernie Ball Music Man guitars and cutting-edge audio editing software. Highlights included meeting artists like John Otto (Limp Bizkit), Mick Thomson (Slipknot), Gary Holt (Slayer), Zack Grooves, and Johnathan "Sugarfoot" Moffett.
While in California, students maximized their trip by networking at events and directly with brands and artists on the show floor. Returning attendees, like Loeffler, reconnected with peers and past contacts from across the country. They wrapped up their experience with a visit to Disneyland.
“This trip always provides a wonderful opportunity for students to meet music industry professionals, hear inspiring presentations and see great performances,” said Carter. “There is an invaluable component to the trip where students meet others who have been in their shoes, making it easier for them to stay connected long after NAMM concludes.”
Faculty in SUNY Oneonta’s Music Department have taken students to The NAMM Show for 29 years. The NAMM trip was made possible, in part, by support from the Caroline (’67) and David D’Antonio Student Travel for Excellence Fund.