Joe Lamond, NAMM CEO & President, interviews Chris Martin, the sixth-generation CEO of Martin Guitars, founded by his family in 1833.

NAMM President/CEO Joe Lamond kicked off 2009 Summer NAMM with the State of the Industry Address, where he discussed the changing economy, its impact on the industry and the challenges and opportunities as the music products community prepares for fall and holiday selling season.

This record-setting NAMM U Breakfast Session left attendees inspired and motivated to breathe new life into their businesses as hosts Alan Friedman and Danny Rocks served up "25 Ideas for Improving Your Business--NOW!" These great ideas aren't just theories; instead, they're practical, dealer-tested tips shared by some of NAMM's most successful retail members, in the areas of sales, promotion,

Bill Hinely leads the discussion in Friday's Breakfast Session, "The Big Issues: Trends and Tactics."   

Many attendees caught the final NAMM University Breakfast Session to find out the show's must-see products, selected by the panel members. “Best in Show—This Year's Hottest Products” was moderated by Frank Alkyer and featured panelists Greg Billings, Ted Eschliman, Alan Friedman, Pete Gamber, Zach Phillips, Liane Rockley and Victor
Salazar.

Rock god and media mogul Gene Simmons dropped by the NAMM U Breakfast Session on Thursday morning at the 2009 NAMM Show to share his unique perspectives on marketing and succeeding despite the odds. Even though NAMM President Joe Lamond barely got a word in edgewise, Gene mesmerized attendees with his quick wit and savvy business advice.

NAMM President and CEO Joe Lamond discusses the current state of the industry and how the NAMM University Breakfast Sessions will help provide Members with answers, ideas and a plan of action for the year ahead.  

NAMM President/CEO Joe Lamond interviews Mitsuru "Mick" Umemura, the President of of Yamaha Corporation Japan, about his career, the lessons he's learned over the years and how his company plans to move forward in today's uncertain economic climate.

To achieve success, you need to stay open to new and innovative ways to do business. In this segment, NAMM President/CEO Joe Lamond interviews three young, passionate retailers who  are doing exactly that: Jason Tavaria of Dolphin Music, Liverpool, England; Scott Silver of Chicago Music Exchange, Chicago, Ill.; and Billy Cuthrell of Progressive Music Center, Raleigh, N.C.

Change is a constant in our industry. That's why it's more important than ever to stay ahead of the curve. In this NAMM U Breakfast Session, moderator Bill Hinely addresses the new technologies, trends and social shifts that are now providing our industry with a variety of challenges and opportunities.