During NAMM’s Believe in Music Week, the industry virtually gathered to celebrate the spirit of the independent music retailer and to applaud their accomplishments, resilience and commitment to serving music makers at the Top 100 Dealer Awards. The show segment, which aired on Believe TV, announced the “Best Of” category winners, including “Dealer of the Year” and “Customers Choice” awards.
Congratulations to the following category winners:
- Five Star Guitars – Dealer of the Year
- Santa Monica Music Center – Best Community Retail Store
- Amro Music Stores, Inc. – Best Customer Service
- Heid Music Company, Inc. – Best Marketing and Sales Promotion
- Andertons Music Co. – Best Online Engagement and Customers Choice Award
- Drum Center of Portsmouth – Best Store Design
- Royalton Music Center – Innovation Award
- The Candyman Strings & Things – Music Makes a Difference Award
Joe Lamond, NAMM president and CEO shared, “As we’ve experienced, it was an unprecedented year for businesses across the world, but these stories of hope, resilience, and service to others to continue to advance music-making are truly inspiring. Our members are the heart of our industry, and as we heard today – even in the face of a pandemic – continued to bring people joy through music.”
One such story comes from The Candyman Strings & Things, winner of the “Music Makes a Difference” award. In their submission, they detailed the power of music for a one student named Arnold who suffers from a developmental disability. Arnold began taking weekly drum lessons at The Candyman approximately four years ago and has continued taking lessons ever since. On his lesson day, he walks into the store and brings the brightest light with him. Arnold’s teacher, Andy, says, “Arnold always stays focused and always gives his drumming his best. His positive attitude is an example for everyone.” Vanessa, his case manager echoes his role as a leader: “When I heard that The Candyman was nominating Arnold for the Music Makes a Difference Award, I couldn’t help but think that not only has music made a difference in Arnold’s life, but through his example he is now paving the way to make a difference in the lives of other special needs individuals.”
Click here for more of the Music & Sound Retailer’s CTV @ Believe In Music Week coverage.