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PMC Attends NAMM Fly-In

Eric Ebel and Karl Dustman

PERCUSSION MARKETING COUNCIL Participates in 2012  NAMM  Music Advocacy Washington D.C. Fly-In

From March 26 through 29^th, members of NAMM met with members of Congress and the Department of Education as part of its eighth annual Advocacy Fly-in for Music Education event in Washington, D.C. to support issues concerning the music products industry. The PMC’s Co-Executive Director, Karl Dustman represented the PMC at all meetings and events. His direct involvement included pre-scheduled meetings at the offices of Senators, Rob  Portman (R-OH), Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Congresswoman Betty Sutton (D-Oh-13^th)

During the advocacy meetings, NAMM Members asked that Congress reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act in a manner that removes the pressures in current law that force schools to narrow the curriculum at the expense of important core academic subjects, such as music and arts education, and to support a well-rounded education for all students.

“NAMM Members came from around the country to speak with members of Congress and policy makers about the importance of a quality, school-based music and arts education for all students,” said Joe Lamond, president and CEO of NAMM. “In addition to the proven link between music and academic success in other subjects like math and literacy, a well-rounded education that includes the arts helps prepare students for the 21st century workforce where a premium is placed on creativity, innovation and the ability to work in teams.”

Dustman commented, “The PMC was the only music industry trade association that participated in this year’s FLY-IN. Our Executive Committee felt very strongly that the PMC organization and its members need to be seen, heard and recognized as a strong stake-holder in the future of Music Education throughout the United States. I was honored to be selected to make this trip and communicate our strong beliefs in the essential connection of music education and the music products industry that the PMC is part of. This also allowed me to introduce many of the PMC programs and activities to the many different attendees that never knew about the PMC or its educational programs.”

More than 25 NAMM Members were joined by Latin Grammy-nominated jazz guitarist and former NY Yankees legend Bernie Williams, as well as keyboardist and television star Scott Grimes, who met with approximately 70 Congressional and Senate offices and the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Planning and Evaluation, with the U.S. Department of Education.

NAMM also hosted a reception and dinner as part of the fly-in in honor of Dr. Anne L. Bryant, executive director of the National School Boards Association (NSBA). NAMM presented Dr. Bryant with an award for her many contributions to supporting music and arts education at schools across the country.

The PMC will expand and continue its connection with the Members of Congress, NAMM officials and the many individuals from all aspects of our industry that attended and participated   in this industry-wide event.

Any PMC Member wishing to learn more about the organization participation at the NAMM Fly-In event is encouraged to contact Karl Dustman direct at, 440-582-7006, E-Mail: kbdustman@aol.com.