Benny Goodman

Van Alexander co-wrote “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” with Ella Fitzgerald while both worked in the Chick Webb Orchestra back in 1938. The success of that song led to a job as arranger for Webb as well as Benny Goodman and Paul Whiteman and super stardom for Ella. Van formed his own band during the wonderful swing era but gave it up to work in the movies when Bing Crosby offered him a job in 1948.

Louie Bellson was one of the World's premier drummers and listed in every jazz encyclopedia. Even with great success, he remained humble and one of the true gentlemen of American popular music. With his noted double bass drum kit, a series of method books, and respected clinics, Louie made a major impact on the music products industry. Over the decades Louie has been an endorsee and performer at the NAMM show and served as vice president at REMO, Inc. During his playing career, which included years with Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James and Duke Ellington, Louie became an innovator in style and a great example of musical staying power.

Roy Burns played drums for several big names in swing and jazz including Benny Goodman with whom he recorded with during the 1950s. Roy later provided clinics for Rogers Drums in music stores around the country and published several method books. His association with drum companies resulted in his introduction to NAMM, where Roy has become a staple. Along the way Roy developed a unique line of drum products, most notably the Aquarian drumhead. Few people are as passionate about music making the way Roy is! 

Don Minaglia was working as school music administer in Chicago in the early 1970s when budget cuts threatened the music programs. Heading the team, Don enlisted the help of several music organizations including NAMM and Down Beat Magazine to show the school board the importance of a music education. The campaign was highlighted by a personal appearance by Benny Goodman, the king of swing, to speak to the school board. Later in his career, Don worked for music publishing pioneer, Charlie Hansen, before serving as music editor for the Neil A. Kjos Music Company, where Don remains today.