Jim Catalano

Jim Catalano loved playing drums as a small boy but never imagined a life in music. Jim jumped at the chance to work for the Ludwig Drum Company in the early 1980s. There he became known throughout the industry at trade shows and conferences promoting music education materials as well as the company’s innovative products. During his long association with the company, Jim became very close to William F. Ludwig II, the son of the company’s founder. Mr. Ludwig and Jim had a well-noted respect for each other, which gave Jim a deep sense of pride, not only with the company, but with the Ludwig family. In 2010, on the very day of his NAMM Oral History interview, Jim was presented the Industry Award at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic for his dedication to music and music education.