The Grand Rally for Music Education Culminates The 2026 NAMM Show by Celebrating the Transformative Power of Music Education

CARLSBAD, CALIF., January 5, 2025 – NAMM (The National Association of Music Merchants), the largest global non-profit music trade organization and the NAMM Foundation have announced today that the annual Grand Rally for Music Education will be held on Saturday morning, January 24^th at The 2026 NAMM Show in Anaheim, California. This inspirational event spotlights the essential role of music education in the global music industry and will feature an incredible array of world-class performances and inspirational stories on how music education impacts the future of students around the world. 

Hosted by NAMM President and CEO, John Mlynczak, and NAMM Foundation Executive Director, Julia Rubio, the morning session centers on inspirational messages and powerful headline performances, including five-time GRAMMY-winning artist Victor Wooten and six-time Grammy winning Chad Smith. 

Victor Wooten’s profound message on music education combines storytelling with an incredible performance on his legendary bass guitar. The 2026 event will also feature NAMM Foundation grantee, The Roots of Music, which empowers the youth of New Orleans through music education, academic support, and mentorship, while preserving and promoting the unique musical and cultural heritage of New Orleans.

A special appearance will be made by Chad Smith, drummer of the Hall of Fame rock band the Red Hot Chili Peppers. In 2025, Smith announced the "Chad Smith Foundation" which will provide scholarships, music equipment and music education to kids. “I believe every kid, no matter where they come from, deserves the chance to explore their musical potential and find their voice. The Chad Smith Foundation is about opening doors, removing barriers, and helping young talent flourish” Smith said in a previous statement.

Join us at the 2026 event as we unite industry professionals, educators, students, and music advocates in this celebration that reaffirms NAMM and The NAMM Foundation's shared commitment to expanding access to music education and music-making, benefiting both our world and our industry.

Breakfast will be served at this exclusive event from 8 – 8:30 am on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of early entrance passes can be purchased during NAMM Show registration, and early entrance seating for NAMM VIP Program (NVP) badges which will be from 7:45 – 8 am.

The 2026 Grand Rally for Music Education is presented by Mashall Amplifiers and with additional sponsorship from Yamaha Corporation, Musora and Gibson Gives. 

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