The NAMM show cometh (again)

Like clockwork, January of a new year brings a new NAMM show, where those who build and develop musical instruments and music software and related materials show their upcoming wares to retailers, buyers, and the music instrument (MI) industry press. I’ve been either in or on the periphery of the MI industry for going on 20 years now, and I’ve attended the NAMM show every year but one. And through it all, I’ve still managed to retain my enthusiasm for it.

For example, look at the picture I took. The Anaheim Convention Center, which has been the home of the NAMM show since I was about 10 years old, just added a new wing, with huge glass windows that look down at the floor of the exhibit hall below. So this is a bird’s eye view of some of the music software and microphone and pro audio exhibitors getting their huge booths together. It’s chaotic, but the air is also charged with anticipation of meeting people, making demos, and of course, they hope getting people excited enough to order new products for their chain, store, school, studio, etc.

I go to meet the people in the MI industry that I work with, and friends in far flung places I rarely get to see. And who am I kidding–as a musician, I go to drool over the new gear being introduced in the new year. This year is no exception, and I’m looking forward to all of the above. I’ll probably have pictures on social media, and something to say about some of what caught my eye after the show. And to those who can’t make it, you should be able to see highlights all over social media–even my profiles should have some!