NAMM and AMC Bring Recreational Music Making to AARP

NAMM, the International Music Products Association, recently made its first appearance as an exhibitor at the annual American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) conference, September 5–7 in Chicago, to continue promoting its music-making message to the growing senior market.

NAMM and the American Music Conference (AMC) exposed the more than 15,000 attendees at Life@50+: A Celebration of You to the initiatives of Recreational Music Making and music therapy. The U.S. senior population (ages 55 and over) consists of more than 60 million people—a number predicted to increase to more than 75 million by 2010—and over 20 percent of all people who play an instrument are in this age group.

The NAMM/AMC booth provided information about the associations and their programs, along with wellness opportunities offered through NAMM Member companies Lowrey, Remo, Roland and Yamaha. Representatives from these manufacturers offered explanations of music therapy and hands-on music-making experiences. Instruments on display also established the booth as a “petting zoo” of musical equipment. In addition, three New Horizons groups from nearby areas performed in the booth and talked about their participation in the program.

NAMM and AMC’s first foray into this market launched an ongoing partnership with AARP on which they can build upon and further promote their mission.

“We were excited to have the opportunity to let this important segment of the population know about many opportunities for older Americans who want to make music,” said Rob Walker, market development director, NAMM. “Our presence at AARP enabled us to reach people with information about exciting NAMM-supported programs like the New Horizons Band, Music Making and Wellness and Weekend Warriors, which are especially designed to give the 50-plus set access to playing music—and to enjoy the social and health benefits that they provide.”

Within the industry, the number of wellness programs offered by manufacturers could potentially increase as more manufacturers realize the potential for Recreational Music Making and music therapy to build a new customer base.

For more details about the Recreational Music Making initiative and creating wellness programs, interested parties should call NAMM at 800.767.6266 or visit www.namm.com.

About AMC
The American Music Conference is dedicated to promoting the importance of music, music making and music education to the general public. For more information about AMC and this new partnership, visit www.amc-music.org.