Guitar Center has announced the appointment of Jennifer Thayer as President of Music & Arts. Music & Arts is the nation’s largest provider of band and orchestra instruments, rentals, repairs, and music lessons that serve students, families, and educators nationwide. In this role, Thayer will lead the strategic direction, operations, and continued growth of Music & Arts’ more than 250 stores, over one million annual lessons, and the largest school instrument rental program in the country.
A results-driven executive with over 25 years of leadership experience, Thayer has held senior roles across retail, logistics, sales, and customer experience at companies including Harvia US, STG Logistics (through an acquisition of XPO), and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Known for driving performance, developing talent, and scaling complex organizations, she has led high-performing teams and delivered measurable results across large-scale, service-focused businesses.
“Jennifer brings incredible passion for Music & Arts’ mission of developing young musicians and helping them thrive,” said Gabe Dalporto, CEO of Guitar Center. “That passion is matched by an incredible track record of delivering outsized growth across multiple industries and companies. Her leadership reflects our ongoing investment in the future of music education and our long-term commitment to supporting musicians on every stage.”
Thayer’s connection to Music & Arts is both professional and personal. A former band and orchestra student herself, she played clarinet throughout her school years and recently began learning the saxophone. Her son is also a current student of Music & Arts, giving her a unique, firsthand perspective on the company’s important role in supporting young musicians and families nationwide.
“Music has had a lasting presence in my life, and I understand how powerful it can be in shaping young people’s futures,” said Jennifer Thayer, President of Music & Arts. “As we look ahead, I’m honored to build on Music & Arts’ legacy and help shape a new era that expands access, deepens our impact, and ensures music continues to inspire the next generation.”
As President, Thayer will help drive performance across Music & Arts’ retail, lessons, and rental channels; strengthen relationships with educators and schools; and advance the mission to expand access to music education through innovation and community engagement. She will also help identify growth opportunities and acquisitions that support the brand’s continued impact.
Headquartered in Frederick, Maryland, Music & Arts has grown from a single store in Bethesda to a nationwide leader in music education. With over 250 stores, 250+ affiliate partners, and more than 200 educational representatives, the brand is trusted by students, families, and schools for its comprehensive offering of band and orchestra instruments, private lessons, rentals, and repairs.
For more information about Music & Arts, visit MusicArts.com.
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