Oral History Interviews

Malcom Holman and his twin brother, Martin, began playing music together at an early age. Encouraged by their father, the two, sometimes playing with his older brother Jonathan, formed several of their own bands over the years performing at churches and for parties. Their band Soul Flow combined elements of jazz and hip-hop and featured several of their own compositions. Largely self-taught, Malcom developed his skills as a singer and bassist before earning his degree in music business and talking classes at Berklee College of Music.

Geoff McCann’s grandfather, James Robert McCann, established McCann’s Music in Hobart, Tasmania back in 1881. In 1935, under the supervision of Bernard McCann (Geoff’s father), the store expanded into electrical goods, furniture, floor coverings, bedding and records. Geoff joined the business in 1965, working in the record bar and was appointed managing director in 1974.  Due to a poor financial position at the time, Geoff decided to scale back the operation and to concentrate solely on musical instruments, print music and tuition, which turned out to be a successful decision.

Cheryl Masters retired from Barratt’s Music in July 2024 after 50 years of service! Her remarkable career in the Launceston, Tasmania store spanned three generations of the Barratt family and countless customers and friends. Cheryl started at Barratt’s in an administrative role, utilizing machines and typewriters to perform tasks before moving into the store's sheet music department. In this role, with the emergence of computer technology, Cheryl grew the store’s sheet music profile and, as a result, gained national attention and industry awards for her expertise, skills and knowl

Raul Midón, a luminary shaped by the vibrant rhythms of Latin music, discovered his calling amidst a world of sound despite the challenge of blindness. From his earliest days, Raul found solace and inspiration in the melodies that surrounded him, channeling his unwavering passion into singing and playing guitar. Influenced by legends like José Feliciano, Raul embarked on a musical journey that led him to become a sought-after studio musician, lending his soulful vocals to luminaries such as Stevie Wonder and Jason Mraz.

David Jenson spent his early childhood in Southern California and was inspired early on by The Beach Boys and surf rock, but began his musical journey in earnest after moving to Utah and beginning piano lessons. He particularly enjoyed playing and improvising with his sisters, all musical. Still feeling a kinship to Southern California, David taught himself guitar by learning classic surf rock songs by The Ventures, Jan & Dean and Dick Dale. As his interests moved to alternative and grunge music, David formed several alternative and indie rock bands with his friends and perfor

Rob Thorsen, a distinguished bass player and revered music educator based in San Diego, embarked on his musical odyssey at a young age, exploring a myriad of instruments thanks to his parents' encouragement. From the tuba to the classical guitar, Rob's musical journey was a symphony of exploration until he discovered his true calling with the electric bass at 17, procured from a humble garage sale. Fueled by an unbridled passion for music, Rob immersed himself in the vibrant San Diego music scene, honing his skills through mini gigs and forging lasting friendships along the way.

Bill Kilpatrick radiates an unwavering commitment to both the craft of musical arrangement and the preservation of its storied heritage. From the tender age of nine, when he first cradled a guitar in his hands, Bill embarked on a journey fueled by an insatiable passion for melody. The echoes of the Beatles' harmonies resonated deeply within him, spurring him to master classics like "Hey Jude" on both guitar and piano by the age of 15. Amidst the coastal allure of Long Beach, his musical odyssey took a unique turn as he became a tour guide aboard the venerable Queen Mary, serenadin

June Kuramoto was born in Japan but raised in Southern California, where her passion for traditional Japanese instruments melded with American soul music.

Kimo Cornwell was born in Hawaii and became a sought-after studio musician and sideman for several top local artists there, including Don Ho. After relocating to Los Angeles with his wife, he quickly entered the live sound touring world, performing with artists such as Ronnie Laws and on Al Jarreau’s High Crime tour. In 1983, he was invited to join Hiroshima, marking the beginning of his long collaboration and friendship with koto player June Kuramoto. Kimo's interesting NAMM Oral History interview offers insights into the recording studios he used in Hawaii and his views on jazz

Justin Andrews, carrying the legacy of his legendary grandfather Otis Redding, holds the esteemed position of Director of Special Projects and Outreach at the Otis Redding Foundation. Focusing on event coordination and student engagement, Justin's dedication shines through his creative endeavors, such as curating Otis Redding branded merchandise to fund educational initiatives. His active involvement extends beyond the Foundation, where he presides over the Macon Film Festival’s Board of Directors and supports various community organizations.

PK Pandey is a seasoned professional with a lifelong passion for music and a relentless drive for excellence in the professional audio industry. From learning the guitar at the age of 12 to founding Guitar Center's B2B division, GCPRO, PK's journey exemplifies his innovative spirit and entrepreneurial acumen. With over three decades of experience, PK has spearheaded numerous projects, emphasizing quality assurance and fostering lasting relationships with clients and vendors alike. His portfolio boasts a remarkable array of achievements, including earning 12 Platinum & Gold rec

Sergio Molho is a seasoned professional in the audio/video and recording industry, boasting a career spanning over four decades. As a named Partner/Director of Business Development for WSDG, a leading global architecture/acoustic design firm, Sergio has been instrumental in the firm's success since founding WSDG Latin America in 1994. With a background as a keyboard artist and vocalist for the popular Argentine funk band CASH, Sergio brings a unique blend of musical talent and technical expertise to his work.

TJ McGann, a distinguished guitar repair technician, boasts an illustrious career spanning decades. Renowned for his meticulous craftsmanship, TJ has served a multitude of esteemed guitarists, including Bucky Pizzarelli, and the iconic Les Paul. His expertise has been instrumental in shaping the musical instruments of legends. A stalwart presence at the NAMM show, TJ has contributed significantly to its success for many years. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Muriel Anderson’s All-Star guitar night in Nashville during the early 2000s, leaving an indelible mark on the event's h

Logan Thomas carries the esteemed legacy of the Gretsch musical instrument company, renowned for its history of innovation in the music industry. As a proud family member, Logan's roots run deep within the company, nurtured by the guidance and mentorship of his grandparents, Fred and Dinah Gretsch. In 2024, Logan made a notable appearance alongside his grandparents at the NAMM show, where his insights were captured in an interview. With a keen eye toward the future, Logan takes note of where the company has been and where it is heading so he can play a key role in the future of th

Rob Gottfried, known as "Rob the Drummer," was born into a musical legacy, inspired by his father's performances with swing era icons like Paul Whiteman and Bunny Barigan. Influenced by The Beatles' iconic Ed Sullivan Show appearance in 1964, Rob embarked on a lifelong journey with music, honing his craft as a drummer from a young age. His partnership with the Zildjian cymbal company allowed him to not only provide feedback on new products but also conduct clinics, sharing his expertise with aspiring musicians. In 1976, Rob's career took a unique turn when he became a beloved figu

Leif Garrett, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, gained fame as both an actor and a singer during the 1970s. With a string of acting roles in television and film, he captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. His hit records, notably "I Was Made for Dancing," solidified his status as a musical sensation. Starting his career as a child actor, Leif transitioned into music, where he found a profound connection to his passion. In recent years, he has rekindled his love for live performances by forming his own band, captivating audiences primarily in the Los Angeles are

Cathy Segal Garcia, a fervent music enthusiast, draws inspiration from her familial roots deeply entrenched in musicality. Raised amidst the harmonious melodies of her parents and twin sisters, Cathy's passion for music blossomed early on. Her father's leadership in a big band and proficiency in the saxophone laid the foundation for her musical journey. Cathy's pursuit of musical excellence led her to the prestigious halls of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she honed her craft. Throughout her illustrious career, she has been drawn to the captivating realm of jazz, bo

Dr. Peter D’Antonio, born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1941, is a distinguished scientist and innovator in the field of acoustics. With a Ph.D. from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, Dr. D’Antonio's expertise spans spectroscopy, diffraction physics, electron microscopy, and architectural acoustics. After a notable career at the Naval Research Lab, he ventured into the music industry, where he revolutionized recording studio design. In 1983, he founded RPG Diffusor Systems, Inc., pioneering sound diffusion technology and holds numerous patents. Dr.

Alex Masso's musical journey began in childhood, inspired by his family's love for music. Introduced to the drums at 10, he found his rhythm and explored genres like Grunge Rock, Indie Rock, the Blues, and Punk Rock during his formative years. Alex co-founded a rock band with friends and developed a passion for mentoring aspiring musicians. Appointed as the Executive Officer of the Australian Music Association, Alex brings a wealth of experience from roles in the Music Council of Australia and the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.

Brendan Zareno, the visionary behind Safe Haven Music in Island Park, New York, has dedicated his life to the art of guitar repair and sales. From a young age, he honed his skills, transforming a childhood hobby into a thriving career. Brendan's expertise in guitar repair became evident early on, as he effortlessly breathed new life into used instruments, earning admiration and profit. With unwavering determination, he created a haven for guitar enthusiasts, stocking it with a treasure trove of rare and sought-after instruments from renowned brands like Ibanez, Jackson, Gretsch, a

Joshua Morris is a versatile professional blending his passion for architecture, acoustics, and music. With dual degrees from the University of North Carolina in Charlotte, he possesses a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture and a Bachelor of Architecture. His love for music fueled his interest in acoustic design, reflected in his thesis. Joshua's journey led him to join WSDG in 2005, where he quickly rose to a pivotal role as a project manager, designer, and now partner. His expertise spans managing diverse projects worldwide, from China to the United States to Germany.

Elizabeth Mayton has a diverse background in both music education and religious studies. She integrates her academic knowledge into her musical journey. Whether as a cantor in her church or connecting with music educators in the retail setting, Elizabeth exemplifies dedication and perseverance in all her roles. She joined the PM Music Center team while still in college working in the warehouse and preparing instruments for rental. She soon rose within the company to oversee the store’s music lesson program and focus on its communications center.

Erin Connelly is a dynamic musician and industry leader whose lifelong passion for music began in fourth grade, when she and her twin sister joined their school band. She went on to study trumpet in college, developing a deep love for jazz that continues to shape her musical journey. Performing alongside her husband on saxophone, Erin co-produced a jazz album that received praise from DownBeat magazine—a reflection of her creativity and musicianship. Beyond performing, Erin has built a successful career at Menchey Music in Timonium, Maryland, where she began as the lesson coordina

David Boonshoft, former president of Aguilar Amplification, boasts a multifaceted career deeply rooted in the music industry. From his early days as a jazz bassist to his collaborations with iconic labels like Def Jam and Naked Music, David's journey is a testament to his diverse talents and unwavering passion for music. As the co-founder of Aguilar Amplification in 1995 and Naked Music Recordings in 1998, he has seamlessly balanced roles as a bassist, MI product developer, record label owner and businessman since 1975.

Rachel Amick was immersed in a rich musical environment from a young age, with both parents being music educators. Witnessing their entrepreneurial spirit, Rachel and her parents ventured into providing musical lessons at their local retail store, Scales Street Music in North Carolina. Recognizing Rachel's unwavering commitment, dedication, and passion for music, upon retirement the store owner offered the store to Rachel, becoming the perfect fit to lead the store. In addition to her managerial role, Rachel is a talented jazz vocalist who also enjoys performing on her five-string

"When life itself offers no order and meaning, the musician creates an order and meaning from the sounds of the earth which flow through his instrument".

Glen Marhevka, known as "the Kid," is a longstanding member of the renowned band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, joining in 1995. Marhevka's exceptional trumpet skills have graced tracks from such notable artists as Ben Harper and B.B. King. He also represents Yamaha as an artist and clinician, actively promoting music and education. His dedication to education stems from his own experiences with inspirational band teachers. Notable career highlights include performing at the Super Bowl with his band and collaborating with music legend Stevie Wonder.

Joshua Levy is a Big Bad Voodoo Daddy member, having been with the group since 1996. As the pianist, arranger and composer, Levy has played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s distinctive style and sound, which has garnered worldwide acclaim. His collaboration with legendary recording engineer Al Schmitt in Hollywood holds a special place in his heart, reflecting his dedication to musical excellence. Among his most cherished experiences is performing at the Super Bowl alongside the iconic Stevie Wonder as part of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

Karl Hunter, the accomplished saxophonist and clarinetist, represents Yamaha as one of its esteemed artists and clinicians. His journey into jazz began when he switched from clarinet to saxophone to join his high school jazz band, a decision fueled by his deep passion for music. Hunter's affinity for the baritone horn adds depth to his musical repertoire. In 1996, he embarked on a remarkable musical journey by joining the internationally acclaimed swing jazz band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. This opportunity arose thanks to college friend and bandmate Glen Marhevka, whom Hunter met in mu

Andy Rowley is a member of the iconic swing band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. Since its inception in 1993, the band has achieved tremendous success with hit records and memorable concert appearances worldwide. Notable highlights include performing at the Super Bowl alongside music legend Stevie Wonder and entertaining United States presidents. He is a staunch advocate for music education, actively supporting and encouraging young musicians. Rowley endorses Rico reeds and serves as a Yamaha artist, conducting clinics for the manufacturer. His passion for sharing the gift of music and nurt