Music Industry and Music Education Working Together to Meet New Challenges

On August 12, 2025, NAfME and the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) presented a webinar on how the music industry and the music education profession are working together to address new and ongoing challenges including tariffs, careers in music, and more. Watch the recording:

Panelists:         

• Deb Confredo (moderator)
• John Mlynczak, NAMM President & CEO
• Claire Kreger-Boaz, NAMM Public Policy Manager
• Eric Ebel, NAMM Senior Project Manager, Member Services
• Amanda Karhuse, NAfME Assistant Executive Director for Advocacy and Public Policy
• Laurie Fellenz, Wisconsin Music Educators Association Executive Director

Discussion addresses:

Question #1: Presenters address how the music industry supports teachers and what members can do to strengthen relationships with their music retailers

Question #2: As music educators head back to school, there are concerns about federal funding and how decisions being made in Washington may impact their programs. Presenters share the latest news and bright spots.

Question #3: NAMM has been carefully tracking how some of the new and proposed tariffs will impact the music industry. Presenters share how supply chain disruptions could impact the upcoming school year and how music educators should plan with this lack of certainty.

Question #4: We all know that not all K–12 students are going to become teachers or performers, but there are so many other job opportunities in the music industry that they may not be aware of. Presenters share information about the Careers in Music initiative and how music educators can engage in this work.

You’re not alone!

Stay updated on the latest news in the music education profession and advocacy efforts. If you are not already a member of NAfME, please consider joining (or renewing) as a member today. If you are not a full-time music educator, we also have an Associate membership level for music education supporters.