A look at the dynamic changes in the style of trade shows reveals much about NAMM’s activities in the 1970s and 1980s, and its efforts to respond to harsh economic times.

NAMM inaugurated the industry’s first open-floor exhibit format in Miami in 1970. That winter it held the first Western Regional Seminar in Los Angeles. Then it was back to Chicago and the new McCormick Convention Center for an energized 1971 summer show. By 1978, the winter show had moved to the Anaheim Convention Center and rivaled the summer exhibitions. In spite of recessionary times, record numbers attended.

To help its members, NAMM introduced an industry-wide promotion campaign called “Discover Music” in 1973. It also conducted Regional Marketing Clinics and expanded its retail assistance programs. In the 1980s, NAMM worked to underscore the importance of school music.

William Gard retired in 1981, after 34 years of dedicated service as NAMM’s executive secretary. With Larry Linkin now at the helm, NAMM moved its headquarters from Chicago to California. The association embarked on a time of high energy and change.