NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In
May 10-14, 2026
jenna day
owner, day violins and NAMM BOARD MEMBER
“We are here not because it is easy work, but because it is important work. We are not just fighting for funding or for policy—we are fighting for access, for equity, and for the chance for every child to know what it feels like to create beauty in a noisy world. Because talent is universal, but opportunity is not. That’s why we’re here. That’s why we keep coming back.”
Advocacy at Work: NAMM's 20th D.C. Fly-In
On May 13, 2026, NAMM member delegates will convene on Capitol Hill to champion two of the industry's most pressing priorities: securing federal funding for music education and urging Congress to exempt musical instruments from sweeping tariffs. This high-impact experience gives members the opportunity to meet directly with their representatives, share firsthand accounts of how tariffs are affecting their businesses, and make the case for why music education remains an essential investment for students across the country.
Delegates arrive prepared — armed with personal stories, professional insight, and the full support of NAMM staff and seasoned lobbyists. Through intensive advocacy training, members are equipped to engage in meaningful, high-level conversations with lawmakers on the issues that matter most to the music products industry.
Join the delegate interest list for the 2026 NAMM D.C. Advocacy Fly-In — and help shape the future of music education and our industry.
Illuminating Careers in the Music Industry for High School Students
Every NAMM D.C. Fly-In begins with a Day of Service hosted by The NAMM Foundation — a chance for member delegates to connect directly with students and bring the music industry to life. This year, The NAMM Foundation will once again host Network With the Pros at a D.C.-area high school, where industry professionals share their career journeys and answer students' questions about the many paths a life in music can take. It's a meaningful reminder of what's at stake: by inspiring the next generation, delegates reinforce the very case they'll be making on Capitol Hill — that music education is worth fighting for.
Did You Know?
2018
NAMM honored Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici for her staunch support for music and arts education.
2019
2019
was our biggest year with over 100 delegates.
2020
2020
we held a virtual advocacy summit due to the pandemic.
2023
2023
had 85 delegates representing 41 states and had the highest number of first-time delegates in 15 years!
2024
was an election year and so we focused on our policy priorities and planned for an epic 2025 Fly-In!
2025
The 19th NAMM D.C. Fly-In resulted in 200 meetings with members of Congress and/or their staff!
Highlights from the 2025 D.C. Fly-In
In 2025, 94 delegates representing all 50 states met with 200 Members of Congress and/or their staff to ask for Title I, Title II, and Title IV, Part A funding for music education. The Fly-In included a small trade delegation of guitar manufacturers who met with key members of the Senate Finance and House Ways and Means committees to share the economic impact of potential trade restrictions on imported wood used to make guitars and other stringed instruments.
NAMM D.C. Fly-In Delegates Advocate for Music Education on Capitol Hill
A coalition of more than 90 NAMM members and partners representing all 50 U.S. states, congregated in our nation’s capital as part of NAMM’s 19th Advocacy D.C. Fly-In. Their goal was to meet face-to-face with their members of Congress and/or their staff and make the request to support federal funding for music education..
The D.C. Advocacy Experience in Photos
The D.C. Fly-In invites NAMM members to advocate for federal funding for music education. This signature NAMM event kicks off with a Day of Service and training and cultivates a real sense of community among attendees!
From the Capitol to the Stage: Music, Advocacy and Connection
There’s something magical about arriving in Washington, D.C., when the Capitol dome comes into view. It’s one of those moments that takes your breath away. On May 4, we drove to D.C. from Ossining, N.Y., where Mike Risko Music, our music school and retail store of 30 years, is located. We were proud to return to D.C. for our second NAMM Fly-In.
Fly-In FAQs
- How do I register for the Fly-In?
-
Please complete the interest form and we will get in touch.
- How much is the registration fee and what does it cover?
-
Registration is $425 and includes all training, materials, meals and special events. Deadline to register is April 14. Registrants can book rooms at the Hyatt on Capitol Hill at NAMM's negotiated rate of $399 + tax until April 14. Travel to and from Washington, D.C. is on your own.
- Can I attend if I am not a NAMM member?
-
Representatives from NAMM partner organizations may register to attend the Fly-In by invitation. We do request those eligible for membership join NAMM before registering for the Fly-In. Learn more about the benefits of NAMM membership.
- Can I bring a guest or spouse?
-
Please note that the Fly-In is a music industry business event. However, guests of registered delegates may attend select meals and special events with a $250 guest registration fee.
Participation in briefing day on and Congressional visits are limited to delegates.
- Is there a Day of Service this year?
-
Yes! The NAMM Foundation will lead delegates in a day of service at a local D.C. high school on Monday, May 11. Members will network with students and share information about how to have a career in music. This event is optional and requires a Sunday, May 10 arrival.
- How can I promote my participation?
-
When posting about the Fly-In on social media, please use the hashtag #NAMMFlyIn.