News
October 26, 2026 I Philanthropy
NAMM Opens Applications for 2027 Best Communities for Music Education
New for 2027, eligible BCME applicants can also apply for the Dinah Gretsch Impact Award, offering up to $5,000 each to as many as 10 schools and districts demonstrating financial need and a commitment to strengthening and sustaining music education.
October 26, 2026 I Distribution
Cleartone Strings, KMC Music Strike Distribution Deal
Through the partnership, MI retailers across the country can now order Cleartone’s full range of guitar strings and Star Picks directly through KMC Music.
October 26, 2026 I Opening, Supply
Audio-Technica Expands with New Hollywood Facility
The 8,966-square-foot, two-story facility will support Audio-Technica’s expanding activities in the region, including sales and marketing offices, product development, customer engagement, and product demonstration capabilities.
October 19, 2026 I Award
Slash Receives 2026 Les Paul Spirit Award
Rock icon Slash received the award on Oct. 5 during a celebration at the Les Paul Recording Studio in Hollywood, California.
October 19, 2026 I Event
NAMM Names CenterStaging as Official Backline Partner for 2027 Show
CenterStaging will support the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage, RCF Arena Stage, Bass Magazine Awards, TEC Awards, SheRocks Awards, NAMM Retail Awards, Grand Rally for Music Education and Bands at NAMM stages.
October 19, 2026 I Obituary
John Packer Musical Instruments Founder Passes Away
John Howard Packer died on Oct.10 at the age of 75.
October 12, 2026 I Event
Florida Drum Fest Brings Local Drum Community Together
Designed as an all-ages gathering for the drumming community, the first Florida Drum Fest featured a combination of major manufacturers, boutique builders, vintage collectors, educators and specialty brands.
October 12, 2026 I Acquisition
Musik Wein Acquires Vintage Guitars
After 10 years as Vintage’s distributor in Germany and Austria, Musik Wein took over the entire operation and management of the brand’s fretted instruments, amplification, FX pedals, accessories and merchandise
