NAMM FOUNDATION EDUCATION AT THE NAMM SHOW
The NAMM Foundation presents a robust schedule of sessions and networking opportunities for educators at all levels--from early childhood through higher education--and post-secondary students.
For Educators:
These sessions are designed to broaden educators' understanding of the music, sound, and event technology industries, connecting them directly with professionals, innovations, and resources. By exploring real-world career pathways in the music products industry, educators gain tools to inform their curriculum and guide students toward meaningful futures. The sessions support workforce development by helping teachers prepare students not only for success in music, but in life.
For Students:
These sessions provide college and university students with targeted career development, professional insights, and access to industry leaders. By exploring the diverse roles and opportunities across the music, sound, and event technology fields, students are inspired to envision their future and take actionable steps toward it -- all within a supportive, connected community.
Together, these programs help build a bridge between education and industry, preparing the next generation of passionate, informed professionals to lead the music and sound ecosystem forward.
SHOW DATES ARE JANUARY 20-24, 2026
We ask that accepted presenters be available Tuesday, January 20, through Saturday, January 24 (typically sessions occur Thursday-Saturday).
PROGRAM AREAS & TOPICS REQUESTED
The NAMM Foundation is looking for session topics geared toward two distinct audiences: educators (K-collegiate) or post-secondary students. Please note we are not looking for sessions on teaching methodologies, classroom techniques, workshops, or scholarly papers. Session content must focus on one of these themes:
- Exploring careers in the music industry
- Preparing students for careers in the music industry
- Collaborations to enhance workforce skills, such as:
- Private teachers and schools
- Nonprofits and education
- Industry and education
- K-12 and collegiate
- Classroom resources for a life in music, such as:
- Technology
- Copyright and licensing
- Industry curriculum in the classroom
- Adaptive instruments
- Instrument repair
CRITERIA & QUALIFICATIONS
The following qualifications apply:
- Submitter(s) must have demonstrated proficiency in the topic(s) proposed.
- Submitter(s) must become familiar with the audience and goals of the program(s).
- Submitter(s) must adhere to deadlines and guidelines.
SESSION FORMAT
| TYPE | DESCRIPTION | TIME LIMIT | SET UP | PROGRAMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presentation | One presenter, specific topic. | 25 minutes | Theater seating, riser, one microphone, screen for PPT, lectern, sound tech. | GenNext or Educator Experience |
| Session | Presenter + up to three panelists, discussion. | 45 minutes | Theater seating, riser, screen for PPT, up to 4 microphones, lectern, sound tech. | GenNext or Educator Experience |
TIMELINE
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| April 21 | Submissions Open |
| September 8 | Submissions Close |
| October 8 | Final Acceptance Notification |
| October 15 | Speaker Forms Due |
| November | NAMM Foundation Education Schedule Officially Published |
GENERAL GUIDELINES & POLICIES
- Please review our anti-trust policies, as speakers cannot talk about pricing or promote their own organization/university during their session.
- This is a highly competitive process, and we have a limited number of session slots available. You are welcome to submit as many proposals as you would like, but if selected, we will likely select only one.
- Once selected, all presenters must agree to—and return—the Speaker Form by October 15, 2024.
- All speakers will receive a complimentary speaker badge plus (1) additional guest badge to attend The NAMM Show. *Please note: If a speaker cancels, all associated badges will also be canceled.
- All travel-related expenses are the responsibility of the presenter(s). NAMM negotiates special NAMM Show rates, and we encourage presenters to book with one of our partner hotels. Housing for general attendees opens near the end of August.
- Due to the high volume of submissions, The NAMM Foundation is unable to provide direct feedback as to why a submission was not accepted.
- Submitter (session leader) must confirm and communicate with all co-panelists regarding their interest and availability to present at The NAMM Show prior to submitting a proposal.
- Submissions that do not follow the guidelines will not be considered for a session.
- Though we will consider requests, the session date and time are not guaranteed and are at the discretion of The NAMM Foundation.
- The NAMM Foundation reserves the right to edit session titles and descriptions and/or to request changes to format, length, and type of proposal.
- Presenters who give product pitches are at risk of not being asked back.
NAMM SHOW SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
NAMM-CMS Faculty Fellows
This award, open to college faculty, provides a $500 stipend to attend The NAMM Show. Apply before September 8.
Lamond GenNext Award
This award, open to college students, provides a $750 stipend to attend The NAMM Show. Apply before September 8.
QUESTIONS?
Select a topic from below and contact our staff for more information.
Educator Experience
GenNext College Students
Registration
Applying for Awards