Industry News

Catch up on the latest industry news and activities in our regular update. There’s always a lot going on behind the scenes. If members have got any news from around the traps feel free to send us a presser, and we’ll give it a run.

Yamaha donates $90,000 Instrument package to Apollo Bay School

Yamaha Music Australia has announced Apollo Bay P-12 College as the winner of the inaugural national Great Start Giveaway – an initiative which sees the winning school awarded a prize package that will revolutionise its music curriculum.

Comprising of $90,000 worth of Yamaha instruments, three days of professional training from Dr Rob McWilliams, Australia’s leading band expert and Yamaha’s Education Outreach Clinician, and a launch event with Guy Sebastian– the prize pool will kick start Apollo Bay P-12’s College’s music programme.
Over 90 schools applied for the grant by submitting letters of support for a music program from principals, teachers and parents. “Over the course of the two months, we received some incredible nominations from schools from all four corners of Australia,” explained Dr McWilliams, “And while we were all hugely impressed by every single submission, the judging panel believed Apollo Bay P-12 students would benefit most from the prize fund.”

For the full story click here

2016 Market Report
The 2016 printed version of the market report will be posted out in hard copy this month with member renewals. Thanks for your support this year. The Report is also available in the members only section for download.

Musico honoured by international supplier

The Schimmel Piano Company’s fourth generation CEO and President, Hannes Schimmel Vogel, recently made an exuberant commendation of their Australian representatives, Musico, particularly commending the launch of their new website, www.schimmelpianos.com.au.

“We are looking back to a year with major achievements in Australia. They all culminated in the new website that is so perfectly representing what we are: A traditional and innovative brand that is carried by family spirit and love for music! And I know it made this way because this is also exactly the same way Musico works and operates. We are so proud to be represented by Musico in Australia and the new website is perfectly mirroring the perfect blend of spirits”.

For further details Musico PRESS RELEASE

Stuart Fraser Appeal
As some of you may be aware Stuart (Chet) Fraser has been unwell for sometime and sadly has been diagnosed with cancer. He is continuing treatment and is in the care of The ONJ Wellness centre.

A fundraising appeal to provide support to Chet’s family has been set up through Support Act – Help a Mate. 
Donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.

“We have all enjoyed Chet’s amazing guitar skills over the years, and he has appeared at many AMA events and shows over the years. Thank you for any support you are able to provide”.

There has also been announced a major fundraising concert lead by John Farnham and Jimmy Barnes and many others – details here at Australian Musician 

Big Music and Port Mac Guitars Named in the Top 100 Global Retailers

Australian retailers Big Music and Port Mac Guitars have been named in the prestigious NAMM Top 100 Global stores.

Richard Berkman from Big Music said, “After 8 years serving our local community through our retail store and music school, Big Music is delighted to receive this international recognition as a NAMM Top 100 Dealer” says Big Music’s Managing Director, Richard Berkman. “Playing a musical instrument enriches your life and we feel rewarded every day seeing the positive impact that music is having in the lives of our customers and students.”

Rob Mestric of Port Mac Guitars said “We are absolutely thrilled to be recognised as a Top 100 Dealer for the second year running. Winning the award for Best Online Engagement in 2016 was the highlight of our year and we look forward to attending the awards ceremony in Nashville in July.” said Rob Mestric, CEO & Founder, Port Mac Guitars.

In addition to their honour as a Top 100 Dealers, Port Mac Guitars and Big Music will be in consideration to receive a “Best Of” award in one of seven categories: Customer Service, Emerging Dealer/ Rookie of the Year, Store Design, Marketing and Sales Promotion, Online Engagement, Store Turnaround, and one recipient will be honoured with the Music Makes a Difference award. The coveted Dealer of the Year award will go to one of the recipients in the aforementioned categories.