Join Natalie, as she sits down with Erin Kessler, Marketing Director at Maple Leaf Strings and Vice President of NAMM Young Professionals. Erin shares her journey growing up in the music products industry, how joining the army made a profound impact on her life, and most importantly how she found her own confidence through comedy and improv.

Music Inc, How I Became Less Awkward by Erin Kessler


To learn more about Women of NAMM, please visit www.namm.org/women-of-namm and follow us on Facebook @WOMENofNAMM, Instagram @womenofnamm, and LinkedIn @women-of-namm.

This podcast is co-produced and edited by Natalie Morrison, Stephanie Lamond, and Julia Olsen with music by Lucky Lamond. A special thanks to AKG who are sponsors of this podcast.

Tax Update: California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC)

California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC)

The state of California is offering an income tax credit to businesses that want to locate or stay in and grow in California. All industries of any size may apply for more than $180 million in tax credits during one of the three application periods. Businesses will be selected based on several different factors. Of note is the number of full-time jobs created, the amount invested, and the strategic importance of the business to the state.

Application Periods

  • July 25-August 15, 2022
  • January 3-23, 2023
  • March 6-20, 2023

Evaluation Factors

  1. The number of jobs the business will create or retain in this state.
  2. The compensation paid or proposed to be paid by the business to its employees, including wages, benefits, and fringe benefits.
  3. The amount of investment in this state by the business.
  4. The extent of unemployment or poverty where the business is located.
  5. The incentives available to the business in this state, including incentives from the state, local government, and other entities.
  6. The incentives available to the business in other states.
  7. The duration of the business’ proposed project and the duration the business commits to remain in this state.
  8. The overall economic impact in this state of the applicant’s project or business.
  9. The strategic importance of the business to the state, region, or locality.
  10. The opportunity for future growth and expansion in this state by the business.
  11. The training opportunities provided to employees.
  12. The extent to which the anticipated benefit to the state exceeds the projected benefit to the business from the tax credit.
  13. The extent to which the credit will influence the applicant’s ability, willingness, or both, to create new full-time jobs in this state that might not otherwise be created in the state by the applicant or any other business in California.

Additional Information

California Competes Application Workshop PPT

California Competes Tax Credit Information

CCTC FAQ

Email CCTC

Contact CCTC via Phone: 1-916-322-4051

Trade

NAMM supports free and fair trade. Review the recent informational webinar, including exemption-filing procedures and ongoing updates about the impact of the 2020 Chinese trade agreement.

NAMM Supports Free Trade

On behalf of 10,400 global members, NAMM believes that a strong and vibrant music and pro audio products and entertainment technology industry is important to the educational and cultural vitality, as well as the economic prosperity of all countries. As a trade association, NAMM will continue in our efforts to proactively engage elected officials to keep the lines of dialogue and trade open and urge U.S. and world leaders to reaffirm a commitment to such.

Ongoing updates and resources will continue to be posted to this page. Resources below include policy updates from the U.S. Trade Representative, The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and The National Retail Federation.

To contact NAMM's Public Affairs and Government Relations team, email publicaffairs@namm.org  

Latest Updates

June 2022: Ocean Shipping Reform Act Addresses Supply Chain Challenges and Carrier Shipping Practices 

On June 16, 2022, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act (OSRA) was signed into law, updating ocean shipping ‘rules of the road’ for the first time since 1998, ensuring foreign ocean carriers are not unfairly rejecting American exports. The bipartisan package of U.S. shipping law reforms addresses supply chain disruptions, rising ocean shipping costs, and insufficient vessel service. U.S. agricultural exporters and importers of retail goods and raw materials that depend on competitive and efficient international ocean transportation services have faced ongoing challenges in securing timely and adequate vessel space, skyrocketing shipping costs, and inefficiencies in the pickup and delivery of cargo. 

The 2022 Ocean Shipping Reform Act authorizes appropriations for the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) for fiscal years 2022 through 2025; establishes additional requirements and prohibited conduct for ocean carriers; requires the FMC to issue rules related to certain fee assessments, prohibited practices, and establishment of a shipping registry; and authorizes the FMC under certain circumstances to issue an emergency order requiring common carriers to share information directly with shippers and rail and motor carriers.  As mentioned previously, we’ve heard stories of violations of FMC rules occurring at some ports.  The FMC provides specific guidance to parties wishing to dispute charges assessed by common carriers that they believe may not comply with the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022. NAMM members in this difficult position are urged to file a complaint with the FMC here.  

NAMM, which was part of a coalition supporting passage of the new law, will continue to monitor this topic and will provide updates here as they are available.  

May 2022: USTR Seeks Public Comment Regarding the Continuation of Expiring 301 Tariffs  

The Biden administration is soliciting feedback from U.S. industries about whether to extend soon-expiring tariffs on billions of dollars in Chinese goods. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative sent notices to 600 companies and entities that have previously commented on the Section 301 tariffs seeking their input. 

Background: On May 13, 2019, the USTR posted the draft Federal Register notice announcing the HTS lines and the process for the List 4 China 301 tariffs. This included just about everything that wasn’t already subject to the additional 301 tariffs such as apparel, footwear, toys, consumer electronics, and musical instruments.  

  • Products on HTC list 4A (stringed instruments, pianos, wind instruments, percussion, keyboards, accessories, and more) are currently subject to a 7.5% tariff 
  • Products on HTC lists 1, 2, and 3, are currently tariffed at 25% 
  • Products on HTC list 4B (some stringed instruments, stands, and some accessories) are not currently subject to additional tariffs 
  • A full view of HTC List 4 is here.  Note: Music instruments and related accessories can be found under HTS 9201.10.00 “Upright Pianos,” through 9209.99.80 “Parts and Accessories for Musical Instruments”  

Public Comments: To make public comments in favor of continuing tariffs for the July 6, 2018 trade action (list 1), link here from May 7, 2022, through July 5, 2022. To make public comments in favor of continuing tariffs for the August 23, 2018 trade action (list 2), link here from June 24, 2022, through August 22, 2022.  NAMM Members who wish for the continuation of tariffs under List 3 or List 4A may submit requests through either portal. NAMM will continue to monitor this important issue and will provide updates as they are available. Please visit this page regularly

 

 

    Tax

    NAMM monitors tax reform issues and provides periodic updates on advocacy efforts and pending legislation. For up-to-date information on this issue, please visit this page regularly.

    Latest Updates as of July 27, 2022

    California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC)

    The state of California is offering an income tax credit to businesses that want to locate or stay in and grow in California. All industries of any size may apply for more than $180 million in tax credits during one of the three application periods. Businesses will be selected based on several different factors. Of note is the number of full-time jobs created, the amount invested, and the strategic importance of the business to the state.

    Application Periods

    • July 25-August 15, 2022
    • January 3-23, 2023
    • March 6-20, 2023

    Evaluation Factors

    1. The number of jobs the business will create or retain in this state.
    2. The compensation paid or proposed to be paid by the business to its employees, including wages, benefits, and fringe benefits.
    3. The amount of investment in this state by the business.
    4. The extent of unemployment or poverty where the business is located.
    5. The incentives available to the business in this state, including incentives from the state, local government, and other entities.
    6. The incentives available to the business in other states.
    7. The duration of the business’ proposed project and the duration the business commits to remain in this state.
    8. The overall economic impact in this state of the applicant’s project or business.
    9. The strategic importance of the business to the state, region, or locality.
    10. The opportunity for future growth and expansion in this state by the business.
    11. The training opportunities provided to employees.
    12.  The extent to which the anticipated benefit to the state exceeds the projected benefit to the business from the tax credit.
    13.  The extent to which the credit will influence the applicant’s ability, willingness, or both, to create new full-time jobs in this state that might not otherwise be created in the state by the applicant or any other business in California.

    Additional Information

    California Competes Application Workshop PPT

    California Competes Tax Credit Information

    CCTC FAQ

    Email CCTC

    Contact CCTC via Phone: 1-916-322-4051

     

    3/29/22: NAMM Endorses the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act: Provides tax relief for musicians, other performing artists

    NAMM is pleased to support the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (H.R. 4750 and S. 2872); federal legislation which would restore and update a tax deduction to help performing artists deduct business expenses. The legislation is sponsored in the House by Reps. Judy Chu (D-CA) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and in the Senate by Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA) and Bill Hagerty (R-TN).

    A provision in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 largely eliminated the option to claim miscellaneous itemized deductions that allowed many performers and other artists to deduct work expenses not covered by their employers. As a result, many artists ended up paying more in taxes since the costs of instruments, equipment, travel, and other business-related costs were no longer deductible.

    To address this problem, the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act would revise and expand the Qualified Performing Artist (QPA) tax deduction. QPA allows eligible performing artists, such as musicians, actors, and others employed in the performing arts, the option to take an “above the line” deduction for unreimbursed expenses. But the current adjusted gross income maximum threshold for the QPA deduction is just $16,000 - a level unchanged since QPA’s inception in 1986. The current threshold, as established more than 50 years ago, severely limits the number of individuals eligible for the QPA deduction. The legislation would make business expense deductions more widely available by modernizing the QPA’s income thresholds.

    The bill increases the income level to $100,000/single taxpayer and $200,000/joint filers, adds a built-in phase-out of the deduction and provides threshold income increases based on the Consumer Price Index. With these revisions, more lower and middle-income performers would be eligible for the QPA deduction.

    Congressional sponsors are seeking to advance the bill this year, possibly through inclusion in an end-of-the-year tax measure. In addition to NAMM, supporters of the legislation include the American Composers Forum, Americans for the Arts, Actors’ Equity Association, American Federation of Musicians, League of American Orchestras, SAG-AFTA and the Motion Picture Association. NAMM will continue to monitor this issue and will post updates here as they are available.

     

    • 5/7/21: U.S. Dept. of Labor Withdraws Independent Contractor Rule

    The U.S. Department of Labor officially withdrew the “Independent Contractor Rule” effective May 6, 2001. The rule, adopted by the prior administration, would have made it easier for businesses to classify workers as independent contractors rather than employees.

    Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA), covered employers are required to pay employees at least the federal minimum wage and overtime compensation. These FLSA requirements do not apply to independent contractors. Independent contractors, however, typically have more flexibility to set their own schedules and can work for more than one company.

    According to the Department’s press statement, it is withdrawing the rule for several reasons, including:

    • The independent contractor rule was in tension with the FLSA’s text and purpose, as well as relevant judicial precedent.
    • The rule’s prioritization of two “core factors” for determining employee status under the FLSA would have undermined the longstanding balancing approach of the economic realities test and court decisions requiring a review of the totality of the circumstances related to the employment relationship.
    • The rule would have narrowed the facts and considerations comprising the analysis of whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor, resulting in workers losing FLSA protections.

    For the near term, it appears unlikely that the Department of Labor will re-examine or issue rules that could ease criteria for classifying workers as independent contractors.

    The official notice of the rule’s withdrawal is published in the Federal Register.

    CA Prop 65

    Update on Proposition 65 Short-form Safe Harbor Warning Amendments: OEHHA Delay to Require Restart of Proposed Rulemaking 

    On May 20, 2022, NAMM received a notification from California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) stating that OEHHA is unable to complete the pending rulemaking within the allotted time to amend sections of the California Code of Regulations related to the short-form safe harbor warnings under Proposition 65 (Register No. Z2020-1229-01) (Title 27, sections 25601, 25602, 25603, and 25607.2).  

    As a result, OEHHA must restart the rulemaking process on the short-form amendments with a re-issued regulatory proposal.  OEHHA plans to issue the new rulemaking for public input in the next several weeks. The agency noted that the new rulemaking will likely incorporate some recommendations it received from stakeholders about the previous proposal.  

    These are welcome developments as the delay signals that OEHHA recognizes the need to revisit the proposal in response to significant issues raised by the California business community.  NAMM, as a member of a coalition that submitted comments during the rulemaking process, urged OEHHA to withdraw the proposal or, absent a withdrawal, to substantially revise the amendments. NAMM and dozens of stakeholders expressed concerns about the imposition of new and burdensome labeling requirements – especially when businesses continue to struggle with supply chain issues and recovery from the pandemic.  

    For more information, please visit the short-form rulemaking webpage.

     

    Formaldehyde Emissions and CA Prop 65 Information and Resources

    CA Prop 65

    In 1986, California voters approved Proposition 65, an initiative to address their growing concerns about exposure to toxic chemicals. The law requires California to publish a list of chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity, and for businesses with ten or more employees to provide warnings when they knowingly and intentionally cause significant exposures to listed chemicals. Penalties for violating Proposition 65 by failing to provide warnings can be as high as $2,500 per violation per day. Prop 65 also provides for enforcement "in the public interest" by private attorneys, who typically send a required 60-day notice to prospective violators and then seek to reach settlement agreements which usually include a monetary payment (shared by the lawyers and the state) and a correction of alleged labeling violations.

    Formaldehyde Emissions

    In 2013, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed rule that would regulate the amount of formaldehyde emissions from composite wood, such as hardwood plywood, medium-density fiberboard, and particleboard. Additionally, the proposed rule would regulate laminated wood products, impose more precise labeling on covered products and require compliance information to be passed down from manufacturer/importer through the distribution chain. 

    On December 12, 2016, EPA published a final rule to reduce exposure to formaldehyde emissions from certain wood products produced domestically or imported into the United States. The rule regulates laminated wood products, imposes more precise labeling on covered products and requires compliance information to be passed down from manufacturer/importer through the distribution chain. Any musical instrument made of composite or laminate wood is impacted by the new regulations. In July of 2018, the EPA suppressed a draft health assessment on formaldehyde, suggesting that current regulations protecting the public from overexposure to formaldehyde might not be stringent enough to prevent increased risks of developing leukemia, nose and throat cancer, and other illnesses. NAMM will continue to monitor developments. 

    CARB2 - California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Phase 2. CARB2 stands for the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Phase 2, a stringent standard for formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products, including hardwood plywood (HWPW), particleboard (PB), and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Composite wood products are panels made from pieces, chips, particles, or fibers of wood bonded together with a resin. In the production of laminate flooring, the core board is made up of medium to high-density fiberboard. This is where the emissions concerns come from.

    Note: The formaldehyde emission standards for composite wood products under the EPA final rule, and set by Congress, are identical to the California “Phase 2” formaldehyde emission standards (CARB2). EPA worked to align the other requirements of the federal rule with the California requirements. However, there are a few differences. Unlike the California requirements, among other things, the EPA rule:

    • Requires records be kept for three years versus two years;
    • Requires importers to provide import certification under TSCA beginning March 22, 2019;
    • Requires manufacturers to disclose upon request formaldehyde testing results to their direct purchasers; and
    • Requires laminated products not exempted from the definition of hardwood plywood to meet the hardwood plywood formaldehyde emissions standard beginning March 22, 2024.

    Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Regulations. Manufacturers exporting musical instruments to the European Union (EU), or operating within the EU, should be aware of the REACH regulation. Effective June 1, 2007, the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) reg (EC1907/2006) is regarded as the strictest in the world pertaining to chemicals (e.g., glues, resins, etc.) used in the manufacture of a wide variety of products. Learn more. 

    Resources:

    Understanding REACH Regulations

    Compliance Guide for Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood for Fabricators and Laminated Product Producers

    Formaldehyde Updates from the EPA

    Manufacturer Frequently Asked Questions

    Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products

    Rule resources and guidance materials

    EPA Fact Sheet

    EPA FAQ and Regulations re Curved Plywood

    Webinars for small entity compliance

    Find an EPA-recognized Accreditation Body

    Find an EPA-recognized Third-Party Certifier

    Endangered Species

    NAMM and global coalition achieved revisions to CITES wood listing (2019 Conference of the Parties) and has established a forum concerning sustainability in the music industry.

    CITES, Traveling with Musical Instruments, LAWGS/LACEY Act and Ivory Ban Information and Resources

    Latest Updates: 

    July 6, 2022: CITES agenda proposed; travel and trade of musical instruments containing protected species may be affected. 
    The agenda for November's meeting of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) is almost complete and NAMM and its music industry partners are studying the potential impact of proposals to protect several species of wood.  Among the species being studied is pterocarpus, which is used for marimba and xylophone keys, and khaya, used in guitars.

    Especially troublesome is a proposal by Brazil to upgrade pernambuco to CITES Appendix I, which would place severe international shipping restrictions on this species, which is widely used to make violin and other string instrument bows.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is expected to publish a formal notice seeking public comment on the position FWS should take on these proposals and NAMM will be meeting with FWS officials to get feedback on the government's stance. NAMM will also urge FWS and the CITES participants to streamline the procedures for obtaining and using the musical instrument certificate.  Similar to a passport, the certificate is designed to make it easier for musicians and orchestras to travel internationally with their instruments. NAMM will continue to monitor this issue closely and will post updates here as they are available. 

    March 22, 2022: Music Products Industry Represented at CITES Standing Committee Meeting

    Following two years of online meetings throughout the pandemic, representatives from more than 60 countries met in-person in Lyon, France March 7 through 11, as the CITES Standing Committee considered a full agenda of policy recommendations.

    NAMM continues to represent global music interests in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), as international governments arrive at a consensus on new policies that may impact travel and trade involving musical instruments containing species protected under the treaty. NAMM supported the participation of Heather Noonan of the League of American Orchestras who is leading a collaboration of instrument manufacturers and music organizations.  Music stakeholders advanced policy requests including the Musical Instrument Certificate, and ongoing special considerations for tonewood in musical instruments. These talks are a precursor to the 19th Conference of the Parties (CoP19), which will take place in Panama City, Panama November 14 through 25, 2022. CITES member parties are currently drafting proposals for resolutions and new species listing requests for consideration at CoP19, which will be announced by mid-June, after which each of the 183 parties to the Convention will develop their position on the new proposals. NAMM and its international collaborators in the musical instrument industry will continue to collaborate to advance policy solutions that support both conservation efforts and travel and trade with musical instruments. NAMM will continue to monitor this issue closely and will post updates here as they are available.

    February 14, 2022: Online tool launched to facilitate travel preparations with musical instruments containing CITES-protected species

    On 2/8/2022 Pearle Live Performance Europe and the International Federation of Musicians (FIM) announced the launch of their joint website Traveling with musical instruments in compliance with CITES rules. The site includes questions to help musicians and music ensembles, prepare their touring activities with musical instruments containing CITES-protected species. The objective is to help users determine whether a CITES Musical Instrument Certificate (MIC) is required when crossing international borders with their musical instruments for non-commercial purposes, such as concerts and other live performance events, competitions, teaching, and recording. Musicians, orchestras, and other music groups can also identify steps to be taken before their departure. Read the full release here

    September 1, 2021: Reminder: New October 1st Lacey Act Import Requirement Includes Drums, Clarinets, Flutes, and Piccolos

    As reported this Summer, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced that implementation for Phase VI of the enforcement schedule will start on October 1, 2021. Phase VI mandates that companies importing musical instruments containing wood - including drums, clarinets, flutes, and piccolos - will be required to file a new import declaration form.  Learn how to comply with this new import requirement by viewing our short webinar.

    Since 2010, the import declaration requirement has been applicable to pianos (including player pianos, harpsichords, and other stringed keyboard instruments) defined in Harmonized Tariff Schedule 9201 and "other stringed instruments" (including acoustic guitars, violins, and harps) in HTS 9202. Beginning on October 1, 2021, the import declaration requirement expands to imported products falling within the following HTS codes:

    • 9205.90.20.00 -- wind musical instruments, bagpipes
    • 9205.90.40.20 -- clarinets
    • 9205.90.40.60 -- flutes and piccolos
    • 9205.90.40.80 -- other woodwind instruments
    • 9206.00.20.00 -- drums
    • 9207.90.00.40 -- fretted stringed instruments, the sound of which is produced or must be amplified electrically.
    • 9209.92 -- parts and accessories for musical instruments (e.g., instrument stands, tuning pins, bows)
    • 9209.92.80.80 -- parts and accessories for musical instruments, other
    • 9209.99.20.00 -- parts and accessories for bagpipes
    • 9209.99.40.40 -- parts and accessories for other woodwind instruments
    • 9209.99.80.00 -- parts and accessories for musical instruments, other

    The import declaration form must be filed electronically or in paper format by the importer although as a practical matter the information required by the form must be obtained from the product manufacturer or exporter.

    The European musical instrument organization CSFI has prepared a guidance document for European manufacturers and exporters, but it can also be helpful to U.S. importers. 

    July 6, 2021: Lacey Import Declaration Implementation Date Extended to October 1, 2021.

    On Friday, July 2nd the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced a change in the date of implementation for Phase VI of the enforcement schedule, from July 1, 2021, to October 1, 2021. Read the Federal Register posting.

    Phase VI mandates that companies importing musical instruments containing wood - including drums, clarinets, flutes, and piccolos - will be required to file a new import declaration form.

    To learn the steps you must follow to comply with this new import requirement, View our short webinar..

    Since early June, NAMM has been in communication with APHIS administrators, urging an extension of the July 1 deadline, allowing the industry more time to comply. NAMM will continue to monitor this issue closely and will post updates here as they are available.

    Traveling with Musical Instruments

    During the 16th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties in 2013, the United States proposed a “passport” program to ease the burden on musicians traveling with musical instruments made from CITES-listed species. The proposal was adopted and as a result musical instruments with CITES-listed species may travel through a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated port with proper documentation. Individuals traveling abroad with musical instruments that contain Brazilian rosewood, tortoiseshell, elephant ivory, or any other parts or products protected under CITES or the Endangered Species Act (ESA) must obtain special documentation before traveling.

    For more information on the permit process, documentation requirements, and how to file, please visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Musical Instruments website.

    Lacey Act

    The Lacey Act is a federal statute that regulates the import, export and commerce of protected wildlife, plant species and products. The law covers all fish and wildlife and their parts or products, plants listed on the CITES Appendices as well as those protected by state law. In 2008, Congress amended the law to include new provisions covering plants and plant materials.  Under the revised law and subsequent regulations,  all shipments of imported pianos and other stringed instruments (e.g., guitars and violins) must be accompanied by a declaration listing that includes, among other things, the scientific name (genus and species) of all wood and other plant material used in the imported product, as well as the country of origin of the wood. Specifically, any imported product subject to Harmonized Tariff Schedule Chapters 9201 and 9202. For more information on the Lacey Act and how it relates to injurious wildlife, visit the Office of Law Enforcement.

    Ivory Ban

    The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has been tasked with developing specific rules and regulations for oversight and enforcement. Along with other music and musician organizations, NAMM is actively  advocating for the development of compliance rules that assure fair and legal trade of instruments that contain ivory and that regulations are congruent with exiting requirements (CITES, etc.). The release of proposed rules and a public comment period is expected in the coming months. NAMM continues to be active in advocacy and oversight of rule development process and will advise NAMM Members of the public comment period.  NAMM Members seeking further clarification on the ivory ban can visit the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife’s FAQs.

    Updates and Resources:

    Elizabeth Dale

    The At-Thohir mosque which sits just outside the bustling city of Jakarta, Indonesia, recently debuted its all-new sound system from NAMM Member, L-Acoustics.

    Built by the extended family of the late automotive tycoon Teddy Thohir, the house of worship features 29 domes meant to represent the family. The stunning white interior, ornamented with gold calligraphy, represents the 99 meanings of Allah. The mosque can house up to 1,900 worshipers and was a gift to the local community from a government minister and one of Thohir’s sons. This past spring it was dedicated by Indonesia’s president.

    With its unique interior and large capacity, At-Thohir requires a powerful and pristine sound system that not only provides superior audio to the Muslim community but would discreetly fit into the building’s aesthetic. Adding another layer of technical difficulty in finding the right audio solutions for the mosque is the Indonesian government’s recent guideline that caps sound volumes at 100 decibels and limits amplified audio inside buildings.

    Mosque leadership tasked local Jakarta-based pro-audio supplier PT Gracia Auvindo with the challenge. Its project manager, Hendra Halim, found a system that not only met the specifications and restrictions imposed by the government and building code but fit the installation space inside the main prayer hall, an area only measuring 28.5 meters by 28.5 meters. Hendra said, “The hall is constructed of marble and granite, creating reflective surfaces throughout, compounded by the inner side of a dome-shaped roof.”

    Hendra partnered with L-Acoustics Application Project Engineer APAC Chung Wah Khiew and used L-Acoustics Soundvision to outline a system that could minimize reflections by keeping sound in the audience area, avoiding the domed roof and reflective walls. Soundvision is a software that allows users to input their venue and build 3D models to design the most precise sound system for a specific site. In addition, the software can place any L-Acoustics loudspeaker, line array, or subwoofer within the environment and quickly assess the sound pressure level distribution over the audience. This feature, paired with the real-time mapping function, allows for instant measurements and quick modifications before the sound systems are installed and mitigates the need for readjustments of equipment.

    L-Acoustics Discover SoundVision 3.6

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    Since its installation and calibration, the new sound system has received praise from its community, who have commented on the increased clarity of prayer services. “Working as a team with L-Acoustics and the At-Thohir committee, we’ve succeeded in overcoming important challenges to getting great sound in this space. Soundvision was especially helpful in ensuring that our team proposed and installed the ideal system. The satisfaction of the committee and those who worship at the mosque are a great honor for the PT Gracia Auvindo team.”


    For more information on L-Acoustics, please visit https://www.l-acoustics.com/.

    Elizabeth Dale

    Bari Woodwinds is known for producing only the highest quality products to achieve a unique and coveted sound. As a small-scale manufacturer of mouthpieces and synthetic reeds, the NAMM Member is committed to producing reliable and innovative products that help musicians achieve their ideal sounds while creating as little impact as possible on the environment.

    Musician Wolfe Taninbaum designed the original Bari reeds and mouthpieces to achieve a unique sound. Playing in orchestras alongside Les Brown, Jimmy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, and the CBS and NBC orchestras under his stage name, Wolfe Tayne, Taninbaum became frustrated by the inconsistency of traditional reeds on the market. As a result, Taninbaum was motivated to solve his problem the best way he knew - by creating a reed of his own design. After experimenting with traditional cane reeds, he eventually turned to synthetics as an alternative material type. In 1952, Taninbaum developed his first synthetic reed, one of the first synthetic reeds on the market to be accepted by some of the world’s leading musicians.

    Wolfe Taninbaum

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    While Bari Woodwinds and its CEO, Ron Van Ostenbridge, wholeheartedly believe in its synthetic reeds, the company understands the ties cane reed users may have to their instruments. It encourages even the most committed cane reed player to consider tossing a backup Bari synthetic reed into their case.

    How a Cane Reed is Made

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    We spoke with Van Ostenbridge about the differences between cane and synthetic reeds. He shared that synthetic reeds tend to last longer than their traditional counterparts. This longevity is due to many factors, including the reality that natural reeds come from cane, a member of the grass family, a versatile crop that can have different properties each year based on environmental factors that influence the crop’s growth. Because of this lack of predictability, traditional reeds are often inconsistent compared to synthetic reeds and their refined manufacturing process.

    Synthetic reeds also offer a more sustainable solution for musicians. Synthetic reeds tend to last longer and can be relied upon for a consistent sound, and in the case of Bari’s reeds, the products are produced from recycled materials and housed in recyclable packaging. According to Van Ostenbridge, the goal is not only to reduce pollution in the manufacturing process but to continue to seek solutions that prohibit materials from entering landfills. He said, “Bari Woodwinds wants to help the planet while helping improve the musician’s playing experience.” In addition to its commitment to using recycled and recyclable materials, the NAMM Member also recognizes that the longevity of its products also reduces waste by eliminating the player’s need to purchase more reeds.

    Bari Woodwinds is excited to bring its synthetic reeds and mouthpieces back to The NAMM Show this April and encourage current and prospective synthetic reed customers to stop by their booth and check out its latest innovations.


    For more information from Bari Woodwinds, please visit https://www.bariwoodwind.com/, and to learn more about attending The 2023 NAMM Show, please visit https://www.namm.org/thenammshow/attend.

     

    Elizabeth Dale

    In October, Germany-based Duesenberg Instruments unveiled one of its latest projects, a commemorative James Bond-themed guitar, on the stage of the legendary Royal Albert Hall as part of the Sound of 007 In Concert.

    In 1978, Dieter Gölsdorf started producing and selling guitars and parts and rapidly acquired the experience needed to execute his vision for the electric guitar. By 1986, he established Duesenberg Instruments and the NAMM Member's first iconic instrument, the Starplayer TV, debuted nine years later. The instrument was designed to have a voice of its own and to serve as a visually stunning and reliable companion for any musician. The creation of this guitar spawned a series of ten additional guitar lines from Duesenberg.

    Since its inception, Duesenberg Instruments have maintained an aura of versatility and solid, roadworthy construction that has appealed to many iconic musicians, including Mike Campbell, Bob Dylan, John Mayer, Robbie McIntosh, Joe Walsh, and many more. Professionals and enthusiasts attest that Duesenberg’s instruments are "designed, crafted, and fitted" by its team of experts utilizing parts found only on a Duesenberg. The NAMM Member reports that this enables them to “constantly push hardware design forward and create handy solutions in every detail of the instrument.”

    In October, the company continued its over 40 years of success when it announced the creation of a 60th-anniversary James Bond guitar. This special order build commemorated the big screen debut Dr. No (1962). First conceived by novelist Ian Fleming, the beloved spy has appeared in 27 films over the last 60 years. The custom-built guitar honors the bond legacy by incorporating many iconic features associated with the MI6 agent, including the recognizable “Gunbarrel” logo on the instrument's body that appears in the title sequence of many Bond films the 007 logo on the headstock.

    Chris Distin, who was Duesenberg's lead for this project, said, “We, as a company, have been part of many exciting projects over the years but being part of the James Bond franchise by making a special 007 guitar for the Sounds of 007 In Concert was a highlight, even for us. The guitar, played by David Arnold and Hans Zimmer, was auctioned off to help two charities, Nordhoff Robbins and the BRIT School, who help young upcoming musicians and artists, and it raised £32,750 for these great causes.”

    After the event, the Bond guitar was sent to the famed Christie’s auction house. Proceeds from this auction went to the UK's largest music therapy charity, Nordhoff Robbins, and the Brit Trust. The Brit Trust draws on “the transformative power of music and the arts to do good and to enable positive life pathways for young people of all backgrounds – recognizing that this can best be achieved by embracing accessibility, diversity, and inclusion as key values.” Prior to its arrival at Christie's, Arnold, Dame Shirley Bassey, who recorded theme songs for Goldfinger, Diamonds are Forever, and Moonraker; Barbara Broccoli who was involved with The Spy Who Loved Me, Octopussy, and The Living Daylights, and producer for the films led by Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig; Sounds of 007 In Concert performers, Celeste and Jamie Cullum, Conductor Nicholas Dodd, Ella Eyre, Paloma Faith, Garbage, John Grant, Emma Lindars, Lulu, and Skin; Michael G. Wilson, who was involved in production of The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, License to Kill, and cameos in every film produced by Eon Productions since 1977; and Zimmer signed the guitar.

    The Sound of 007 Promo

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    For more information on Duesenberg Guitars, please visit https://www.duesenberg.de/en/.

    Transformative ideas and insight

    Elizabeth Dale

    Education at The 2023 NAMM Show will take a future-forward look at business, audio production, and entertainment technology while spotlighting the most vital strategies, ideas, and trends to accelerate your business. Join your peers and industry at The NAMM Show to gain valuable insights and inspiration for success, straight from leading thought-leaders and experts.

    As you plan to make the most of your 2023 NAMM Show experience, we invite you to explore some of the most dynamic and relevant topics in today’s marketplace. The best part? Access to each and every session is included with your NAMM Show badge.

    Business
    Looking to grow your business? NAMM U sessions are curated to bring forward-thinking ideas center stage at the NAMM Idea Center, NAMM U Breakfast Sessions and NAMM Marketing Summit. Hot topics include:

    • Proven branding strategies and ideas
    • TikTok and Instagram marketing tips
    • NFTs for small- to medium-sized businesses
    • Future vision and innovation in an era of disruption
    • Inspirational leadership for the new normal
    • Inventory management in the post-pandemic world
    • Video marketing strategies
    • Music lesson program growth

    Audio Production & Music Technology
    Discover new ideas, insights, and inspirations for recording, live sound and music technology professionals at TEC Tracks, A3E, and the Worship Musician Summit

    • Immersive audio mixing techniques and artistry
    • Iconic producers and engineers share their insights
    • The convergence of AI and music
    • Free Dante training by Audinate
    • Insights for house of worship audio professionals and musicians
    • New developments in wearable technologies
    • In-ear monitor technology, safety, and servicing

    Entertainment Technology
    Sessions and trainings for live event professionals from ESTA, Pro Production, and ESA. The NAMM Show also presents an opportunity for free ETCP (Entertainment Technician Certification Program) renewal credits.

    • New insights in lighting design and networking
    • Top lighting and production designers discuss their biggest concerts and tours
    • The latest event safety considerations and tips
    • Strategies from expert event riggers
    • New innovations in entertainment technology

    Artists
    Connect with other artists and gain the strategies and tools to help level up your career as an artist with insightful sessions and panel discussions:

    • DIY tips for musician and band success
    • Music for film and TV
    • Branding and promotion strategies for artists
    • Social media marketing tips for artists
    • Promoting your music in a streaming world
    • New revenue streams for artists

    For music educators, students, and non-profit professionals, The NAMM Show offers a suite of educational sessions curated to meet the ever-evolving demands and professional development opportunities for these communities.


    To start planning your 2023 NAMM Show experience today, head to https://registration.namm.org to register for your NAMM Show badges and secure your hotel reservations today using NAMM’s official housing partner, Eventsphere, at https://www.namm.org/thenammshow/hotels.

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