NAMM Board of Directors-Interviewed
Nelson Varon is the founder of the Nelson Varon Piano and Organ Studios who has enjoyed a long career in the music products industry. During his career in the retail business, which focused on organ and keyboard instruments, Nelson continued to perform for local community groups and churches. Over...
Horst Mucha was one of the most recognizable faces within the music products industry. As a past president of Hohner and a pioneer in the expansion of the company’s product line, Horst truly became a legend in the industry. He joined the famous harmonica manufacturer in 1950, becoming the managing...
Robert Street grew up in the piano business. In 1914, Robert’s grandfather, Claude P. Street, opened his first music store in Nashville, Tennessee. Claude was certain that a successful business could be built by offering the finest keyboard instruments and professional service, a philosophy the...
William McCormick may always be referred to as an industry outsider by some because he came to the music retail business with a Harvard MBA, from the sugar industry – over 30 years ago! His skillful understanding of the business was second to none. His service to the Jordan Kitt's Music Company...
Craigie Zildjian has accomplished what no other woman has done in her company’s over 380-year history; she has become president of the Zildjian Cymbal Company. She has also been a pioneer in industry-related organizations where few other women have been. Following in her father’s footsteps (Armand...
Warner Paige grew up in the music retail business. As a kid Warner would sweep up the store after school and on weekends. As he grew he enjoyed the business more and more and eventually took over the store when his father retired. Along the way Warner took great pride in being involved with the...
Henry Lee is the youngest son of Tom, the founder of the successful stores in Hong Kong and Canada. Henry interned the business after college and took over the Canadian operation while his brother Frank, who managed the operation before, then returned to Hong Kong. Henry helped expand the Canadian...
Wu H. Hsieh is the president of KHS Musical Instruments. KHS was named for the Chinese words Kong for contribution, Hsue for school and Sheh for society, therefore clearly stating the company’s goal of contributing to school and society. KHS produces a long line of brands such as Jupiter, Mapex,...
Thomas Veerkamp proudly represents the 100-year-old company in Mexico that was formed by his grandfather in 1908. The company began as a small retail store and later expanded to one of the most respected music wholesalers in the world. Thomas grew up in the business and took an interest in the...
Ray Jent sought to bring service to the Lubbock, Texas, community when he opened a music retail store just after serving in World War II. Ray worked closely with the school band directors and local music teachers to ensure that his inventory and services matched their needs. He continued with this...