JazzEd

Sidney Davis took over the Musical Merchandise Review (MMR) trade magazine in the 1980s. Originally the magazine began reporting on the industry in the 1880s and became an important resource for suppliers and retailers alike. Sid hired the magazine’s first editor, Don Johnson, who was with the publication for over 25 years and stayed on until his passing in 2008. Sid also assembled a jazz and school band magazine designed for educators. His list of innovations included providing the industry’s first electronic weekly newsletter.

Rick Kessel was the Publisher at MMR, working closely with Sid Davis, when he had a few ideas to expand their content to reach more specific readers. As a result the magazines School Band & Orchestra (SBO) and JazzEd were created. These publications played a vital role in addressing the needs of music educators at different levels, such as junior and high school band directors, and by giving them a voice. These successful offshoots were just one element at MMR, for which he served as Publisher for several decades. Rick’s love of music goes back to hearing his grandfather play

Mike Lawson always wanted to become a musician as a child. The process was not easy as his family could not afford an instrument for him, but his desire was always strong. He worked hard to earn the money when he was a little older, cutting grass and other odd jobs, and finally purchased a guitar. Along the way he studied music magazines and books to learn all he could about the gear and the art of being a musician. Those experiences provided Mike with a unique perspective which he used when creating books aimed to serve musicians.