Adrian Smale

Adrian Smale grew up in a very musical home. His mother played and taught piano while his father played the violin. He witnessed firsthand the joy music can bring a person’s life and, years later, played a vital role in doing just that while working in music retail. As a classical guitarist, Adrian developed a keen understanding of the guitar and used that knowledge when he landed a retail job. He was involved with the music industry from 1975 to 2011.  This video segment from his NAMM Oral History interview covers  the period from 1995-2005.  That passion for music and understanding of instruments became an important element in the encouragement of others to play and to be involved. In fact, Adrian’s son, Mike, now has a career at D’Addario, no doubt thanks to some encouragement from his father along the way.