Indiana

Andrew Rosborough grew up steeped in the rhythm of The Sound of Music, the beloved store his father founded in Kokomo, Indiana. Andrew was actively involved from a young age, starting with summer stints at the store from the age of eight. His contributions have been pivotal in modernizing the business, from enhancing the website and computer systems to expanding the installation services. The store’s familial atmosphere is amplified by the involvement of his mother, Rachal, and sister, Lisa, making it a true family endeavor.

Jeff Shrieve was playing drums in a rock band during the 1960s when he was offered a job at Muncie Music Center.  Jeff was hired in 1968 and became one of the store's three road reps calling on local school band directors.  Jeff was taught band instrument repair in the early part of his career and often will provide repairs while making his visits, most often at no cost.  It's these special services that have made Jeff a welcomed sight to the directors and a great advocate for the students.

Laura Smith was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, making her eventual career with Sweetwater Sound feel like a natural fit. With a professional background in e-commerce, Laura brought valuable experience to Sweetwater, where she became Vice President of Marketplaces. In this role, she focuses much of her attention on the company’s Amazon presence, helping guide the many details involved in representing Sweetwater and serving customers within an ever-evolving online marketplace. Laura is especially proud of the talented team she works with each day and the collaboration requi

Chuck Surack is the founder and president of Sweetwater Sound, one of the landmark companies within the music products industry.  He formed the company in 1979 and worked hard to gather the brands his customers wanted and to provide the care and service he himself would want.  Chuck has supported music educational and advocacy programs as well as serving the industry in such roles as on the NAMM Board of Directors and supporting the NAMM Oral History program over the years.  With all that he has done, Chuck continues to perform his saxophone, just as he always has.

Andy Timmons toured the world with the band Danger Danger, served as guitarist and musical director for Olivia Newton-John and performed with the likes of Paula Abdul and Steve Morse, the Beach Boys and Simon Phillis. His talents led to a number of product endorsements, which brought Andy to most of the NAMM Shows since first attending in 1991 for Kramer Guitars. Andy credits his local music store growing up, Goldman's Pawn Shop in Evansville, Indiana, and his guitar teacher Ron Prichard, for igniting his musical passion and providing direction early in his career.

Bernie Vance played the saxophone in a number of big bands during the swing era. He was drafted and served during World War II, only to come home and find that musical tastes had changed. The big band era was over so Bernie turned to what he knew best, his horn. If he couldn’t play it for a living, he would teach and sell. In 1946, the Vance Music Store opened in Bloomington, IN. However, the first year was a difficult one for the store (like so many others in his same situation). Bernie needed to learn about overhead and taxes, which he learned fast.

Joan White began her career with Muncie Music Center in 1944, just three years after the store opened. She remained with the store until her retirement in 2016.  Although she started by organizing the sheet music department, Joan (pronounced Jo-Ann) assisted with all areas of the business.  One of her key roles for many years was working with the local school band directors, who were so grateful for her support they would often call the store and ask for Joan, even when road reps would visit them weekly.