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Being a woman in the music industry has not always been easy. These women innovators have not only broken the glass ceiling but helped pave the way for others to follow. These ten influential women share what it was like for them as they were braking into the industry and how they have worked to inspire others:

This video vignette was created to serve as a tribute to Jazz guitarist Joe Beck (1945-2008). Joe was helpful in the early days of the NAMM Oral History Program but due to his health was never interviewed. To show our appreciation for his role in helping us, we asked his friend Jimmy Bruno for his thoughts about Joe and added footage of Joe performing during the NAMM Show in Anaheim. During that 2001 performance, Joe was joined on stage by fellow guitarist Larry Coryell and saxophonist Steve Marcus. We miss you Joe.

A Little Laughter from the NAMM Oral History Program Not every moment captured during a NAMM Oral History interview goes exactly according to plan—and we wouldn’t have it any other way! Over the years, alongside thousands of fascinating stories, poignant memories, and important moments of music history, our cameras have also captured plenty of unexpected laughs, playful exchanges, and good old-fashioned bloopers. We hope this collection of outtakes brings you a smile and perhaps a laugh or two, beginning—quite appropriately—with NAMM Music Historian Dan Del Fiorentino!

While on world tour with Lady Gaga keyboardist Brockett Parsons felt the need to enhance his stage presence. He pursued the idea of The Piano Arc and with the help of his friends he was able to make his dream a reality.  In this vignette Brockett and innovative engineer and MIDI specialist Dave Starkey, explain their collaboration and the design of this unique instrument.