February 16, 2026 I Obituary
The Music People’s Founder Jim Hennessey Passes Away
Jim Hennessey
The Music People has announced the passing of its founder and former owner, Jim Hennessey, a entrepreneur whose influence helped shape the modern music accessories industry. He was 90.
Hennessey founded The Music People in 1979 after identifying a need for better, more practical solutions for musicians. What began as a single idea grew into the On-Stage brand, a leader in stands, supports and accessories trusted by performers, educators and professionals around the world. From the outset, Hennessey was a designer, innovator and problem-solver. He personally conceived and developed numerous products that went on to define industry standards, including the world’s first double and triple guitar stands, versatile Aframe stands for both acoustic and electric instruments, and a wide range of support solutions that have become staples on stages and in studios everywhere.
Hennessey’s mission was both simple and ambitious: to make On-Stage the best accessory brand in the world. He believed musicians deserved gear that was durable, thoughtfully engineered, and accessible. Under his leadership, On-Stage expanded from a small line of stands into a comprehensive catalog spanning fretted instruments, keyboards, microphones, percussion, band and orchestra, pro audio, cables, and studio accessories.
Beyond the products themselves, Hennessey built The Music People on values that continue to guide the company today — integrity, listening to musicians, continuous improvement and pride in craftsmanship. His vision laid the foundation not only for On-Stage’s success, but for the growth and culture of The Music People as a whole.
“Jim’s work ethic was second to none, and we often joked that he would be organizing a team of project managers in Heaven,” said the company’s leadership team.
“All of us at TMP are forever grateful for Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit which gave him the confidence to leave a corporate job at the age of 44 to build a company and brand that is now respected worldwide. His legacy has and will continue to make a difference to all musicians. He has left a hole in our hearts but a stage full of memories. Thank you, Jim,” said Tom Tedesco, president of The Music People.
The Music People extends its heartfelt condolences to Hennessey’s children, John and Sharon, the entire Hennessey family, and all who had the privilege of working with or knowing him.
