Geezers of Gear

Marcel Fairbairn

Music Industry veteran talking about anything and everything with incredible people - behind the scenes creating live events, concert and entertainment. Over 300 episodes, with memorable conversations and stories from many pioneers of the event and concert touring world, including hot new up and comers. Geezers Of Gear is never boring, offering great surprises as well. Plus, check out the NEW "Leading Ladies" episodes - that celebrate the incredible women of the concert business, with host (and Geezers Of Gear Producer) Sarah Birnie and our fully Ai FutureTech podcast for industry releases.

  1. JAN 14

    #341 - John Mlynczak - The Evolution of NAMM: From Rock Stars to Industry Professionals

    John Mlynczak is the President and CEO of NAMM, where he leads the world’s largest music products trade association at a pivotal moment in its 125-year history. Appointed in 2023 as the industry emerged from the COVID era, John has focused on evolving the NAMM Show through a relationship-first, technology-driven approach that strengthens year-round engagement and meaningful connections for members and exhibitors. A lifelong musician, educator, and technology leader, John brings a rare blend of creative empathy and strategic vision to his role. Prior to NAMM, he served as Vice President of Music Education & Technology at Hal Leonard, overseeing global education strategy and leading platforms such as Noteflight and Essential Elements Interactive. Earlier in his career, he was Director of Education at PreSonus Audio, where he helped shape curriculum, products, and outreach for music education technology. John has spent many years in higher education as an adjunct professor at institutions including VanderCook College of Music, Louisiana State University, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, while also serving as President of the Technology Institute for Music Education (TI:ME). He is a Google Level 2 Certified Educator, a frequent speaker on music education and advocacy, and has served on numerous national committees supporting arts education. As a performer, John is an accomplished trumpeter with experience ranging from orchestral and pit work to jazz and contemporary ensembles. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Virginia Commonwealth University and Master’s degrees in Music Performance and Education Leadership from Louisiana State University. At the core of his leadership philosophy is a belief that technology should enhance - not replace - human connection, and that relationships remain the most powerful force in the music industry. This Episode is brought to you by ETC and Main Light

    1h 31m
4.3
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Music Industry veteran talking about anything and everything with incredible people - behind the scenes creating live events, concert and entertainment. Over 300 episodes, with memorable conversations and stories from many pioneers of the event and concert touring world, including hot new up and comers. Geezers Of Gear is never boring, offering great surprises as well. Plus, check out the NEW "Leading Ladies" episodes - that celebrate the incredible women of the concert business, with host (and Geezers Of Gear Producer) Sarah Birnie and our fully Ai FutureTech podcast for industry releases.

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