NAMM's Newly Elected Executive Committee Officers Set to Lead the Music Industry Forward

NAMM Announces Newly Elected Executive Committee Officers

On April 10, 2025, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) revealed the newly elected officers for its Executive Committee, a move poised to significantly influence the music industry. Effective immediately, this committee will serve until April 2026 and aims to fulfill NAMM's mission and global vision for its diverse membership.

The newly composed Executive Committee includes distinguished leaders from various sectors of the music industry:

- Chris White, Chair
- Joseph Castronovo, Vice Chair
- Whitney Brown Grisaffi, Treasurer
- Jake Connolly, Secretary

Chris White, who ascends from the Vice Chair position, is the President and CEO of White House of Music, Inc., a notable music retail operation based in Waukesha, Wisconsin. With an emphasis on providing services to school bands and orchestras, White has dedicated his career to bridging music education and retail. He expressed his commitment to the role, stating, "I am truly honored to continue my service to the music industry in my new role as NAMM chair," underscoring the importance of increasing music makers through collaboration and advocacy.

Joseph Castronovo, now the Vice Chair, has an impressive history at Korg USA, having been part of the team since its founding in 1984. As a longstanding NAMM member since 1977, he has consistently advocated for gender equality in the industry through initiatives such as Women of NAMM, offering a supportive network for women in music.

Whitney Brown Grisaffi, taking the role of Treasurer, leads Ted Brown Music Co. in Tacoma, Washington. This esteemed music retailer has garnered national recognition with multiple awards, rounding out her experience with years of community involvement. Her transition from Secretary to Treasurer reflects her growing impact within NAMM and the greater music community.

Finally, Jake Connolly, the new Secretary, is at the helm of Connolly Music Company in East Northport, New York. Specializing in top-tier music products, he comes equipped with a passion for serving both manufacturers and musicians alike.

The transition to the new Executive Committee was smooth, with outgoing Chair Tom Sumner receiving accolades for his eight years of service. In his farewell remarks, he reflected on the collective achievements of NAMM, remarking on the organization's positive global influence on music-making.

John Mlynczak, the President and CEO of NAMM, praised the newly elected committee, emphasizing the importance of their diverse leadership in steering the organization towards areas of opportunity. The new officers are expected to foster a climate of inclusivity and advocate for the enrichment of the global music community.

For further information about NAMM and its board of directors, you can visit their official site.

NAMM is a non-profit association dedicated to enhancing the $19.5 billion music products industry, currently serving over 10,000 member companies and advocating for the joys and benefits of music-making.

In summary, with strong leaders at its helm, NAMM aims to further its mission of making music-making accessible and fostering a supportive environment for all music professionals, underscoring the vital role of music in society.