June 02, 2025 I Appointments
Jennifer Thayer Joins Music & Arts as President
Jennifer Thayer
Guitar Center has announced the appointment of Jennifer Thayer as president of Music & Arts. Music & Arts is a nationwide provider of band and orchestra instruments, rentals, repairs and music lessons. In this role, Thayer will lead the strategic direction, operations and continued growth of Music & Arts’ more than 250 stores, over 1 million annual lessons, and the largest school instrument rental program in the country.
A results-driven executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience, Thayer has held senior roles across retail, logistics, sales and customer experience at companies including, Harvia US, STG Logistics (through an acquisition of XPO), and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Known for driving performance, developing talent, and scaling complex organizations, she has led high-performing teams and delivered measurable results across large-scale, service-focused businesses.
“Jennifer brings incredible passion for Music & Arts’ mission of developing young musicians and helping them thrive,” said Gabe Dalporto, CEO of Guitar Center. “That passion is matched by an incredible track record of delivering outsized growth across multiple industries and companies. Her leadership reflects our ongoing investment in the future of music education and our long-term commitment to supporting musicians on every stage.”
A former band and orchestra student herself, she played clarinet throughout her school years and recently began learning the saxophone. Her son is also a current student of Music & Arts, giving her a firsthand perspective on the company’s important role in supporting young musicians and families nationwide.
“Music has had a lasting presence in my life, and I understand how powerful it can be in shaping young people’s futures,” Thayer said. “As we look ahead, I’m honored to build on Music & Arts’ legacy and help shape a new era that expands access, deepens our impact, and ensures music continues to inspire the next generation.”
As president, Thayer will help drive performance across Music & Arts’ retail, lessons, and rental channels; strengthen relationships with educators and schools; and advance the mission to expand access to music education through innovation and community engagement. She will also help identify growth opportunities and acquisitions that support the brand’s continued impact.
