Lee, I do work for a manufacturer who shows at NAMM (packaging design, literature, etc.). I get tickets from him for my son and I-sometimes for my drum playing grandson. On several occasions, the owner has arranged for tickets for acquaintences of mine as a personal favor. Guests show up as if they were working the show, complete with a badge from the manufacturer. Once inside, however, we're free to walk around and "windowshop" as much as we'd like. The only problem is, since all in attandance are trying to sell something, it's hard and not completely right to expect that factory reps will give you much time. In fact, they generally take one look at your badge, and if it says "manufacturer"-also designated with a different color, for ease of identification, they walk away.

I generally go to the smaller summer show, since it's a 2 1/2 hour drive away in Nashville. It's a working show...I generally do some product demo and assess the effectiveness of the booth design, literature, etc.

Mostly, it's the one week-end Friday I take off, and the boys and I have made it an annual tradition. I leave early on Friday, spend Friday night, leave for home at noon on Sarturday, and get back in time for my 5:00 PM house job.

Show is in mid-summer. If you're close by and would like to attend, let me know. You might also be able to get "invited" by your retailer, if you're a major customer. I went with Carl's Music Center owner and friend Carl Louma for years, and even demoed for Guild guitars years ago.


R.