Nashville is a special place for music, and just as any natural disaster in the world hits musical communities, so, too, has recent flooding taken its toll on this American city.
The NAMM summer convention, a top gathering for the musical instruments industry, will go ahead as planned in Nashville on the 18th through the 20th of this month. For their part, industry group NAMM says that they’ll pump some $13 million into the local economy. Other efforts:
The MusiCares flood relief fund, targeting aid to local musicians, will host a booth and silent instrument auction. If you want to donate your instrument, with 100% of proceeds going directly into aid benefits, you can do so either at the booth or contacting jefffl@namm.org. 100 percent of the proceeds generated from this auction will directly benefit local flood victims.
Musicians union AFM Local 257 will also host donations of products, instruments, and financial gifts at the show. If you’re elsewhere in the world, you can donate online at www.nashvillemusicians.org
Several sponsors are working on a “BIG Gear Giveback” program for the industry, culminating in a concert; see www.namm.org/wannaplaysunday
Finally, while I won’t be attending summer NAMM (I’ll be at home in New York), I know a number of things will be happening there that are relevant to CDM. If you’re attending or live in the Nashville area, get in touch.