NAMM 2016: Day 1

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 20: Convention goers experience the exhibits at the 2016 NAMM Show and First Look at the Anaheim Convention Center on January 20, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)

The NAMM Show 2016 in Anaheim, California, opened with the extraordinary talents of Graham Nash, St. Vincent, Jake Shimabukuro, and Billy Corgan.

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 21: Namm President and CEO Joe Lamond and Singer Songwriter Graham Nash speak on stage at the 2016 NAMM Show Opening Day at the Anaheim Convention Center on January 21, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)

“Graham Nash was breathing the spirit of NAMM and importance of music education, the importance of keeping music in schools fresh. And when St. Vincent talked about being comfortable with holding a guitar, it really resonated with me as a former guitar teacher.”

- Anthony Cutietta, San Diego Music Studios, San Marcos, CA

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 21: Siinger-songwriter Graham Nash poses backstage with the 2016 Music for Life Award at the 2016 NAMM Show Opening Day at the Anaheim Convention Center on January 21, 2016 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for NAMM)

“The music is always the most important part of our relationship (speaking about CSNY). It’s the essence of what we do. Nothing ever came before that. We never lost sight of the power we had through music.”

"My parents encouraged my passion for music and that’s why I’m here today. Children who have music are less likely to bully, join gangs and do better in school.”

- Graham Nash, recipient of the 2016 NAMM Music for Life Award

“This is a great show. We’re in an awesome location this year and we're really putting it to use. We recently introduced a new product and it’s received a ton of attention. It's a completely new market for us, so it’s an exciting time to be at the NAMM Show.” -Carl Himmelman, Apogee Electronics, Santa Monica, CA