The Board of Directors of RPMDA recently held its annual summer Board meeting at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana. The resort is the site of RPMDA’s upcoming annual convention, to be held April 30th– May 3rd. At this meeting, Board members scheduled an exciting program for next year’s convention, including educational sessions, informative guest speakers and clinicians, and entertaining activities at an exciting venue in one of America’s renowned historical cities. The Board is comprised of David Jahnke of Hal Leonard (President), Mike Watson of Remenyi Music (VP/Convention), Ron Manus of Alfred Music (VP/Secretary-Treasurer), Don Langlie of Poppler’s Music (Past President), and Karl Kjos of Neil A. Kjos Music Company and Tracy Leenman of Musical Innovations, Members-at-Large.
The RPMDA Convention is unique in that it provides a meeting that encourages product knowledge, networking, and camaraderie among publishers, retailers and others in the music industry to discuss the important issues facing music retailers today. As the organization’s website states, “RPMDA is a group like no other when it comes to idea sharing and the nurturing of lifelong business and personal relationships. Our members consider this organization to be a ‘second family,’ a constant support for nearly all of their business needs, and one of the best investments they could ever make.”
The 2020 Convention will feature our unique Power Hour, where retailers and publishers can talk face-to-face; as well as educational sessions focusing on social media, copyrights, and other important issues facing retailers today. The Board works hard to provide educational events for retail owners, managers, print, and other store employees, and publishers alike; and social events that benefit members and their entire families. While the program is still being finalized, plans are being made for a very special group visit to attend the famed New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, held at the Fairgrounds, an event that attracted over 475,000 last year and is sure to be a very special event.
The Hyatt Regency Hotelis located next to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, close to the Smoothie King Center and Lafayette Square. Just a short walk from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, this 4-star hotel features an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Getting to nearby attractions is a breeze with area shuttles and ride services. The World War II Museum is nearby, as are river cruise and water boat tour opportunities. RPMDA has negotiated exceptionally reasonable rates for dates of the Convention so please plan to bring your family and enjoy all that New Orleans has to offer!
If you or your employees desire to grow in knowledge and commitment to the print music industry (or the industry as a whole), RPMDA is a great place to do it. As one former attendee said, “This was the most well-organized and pleasant experience I’ve ever had . . . the scheduling was well thought-out, and the excursions are a definite plus. The time to talk to colleagues and meet new people was greatly appreciated. I really had a lot of fun while being in a professional environment.”Another added, “The positive atmosphere is very inspiring and helpful for the future of the industry with the emphasis on being innovative.”
One first-time attendee stated, “My experience at the RPMDA Convention as a first time attendee was easily the highlight of my year and one of the most rewarding things I have done in my time with music. The individuals who belong to this association are extraordinarily welcoming and are willing to take the time to give insight that is effective and applicable to any business involved with the print music industry. At the same time, the association’s members have crafted the convention into one of the most fun and engaging experiences. I truly didn’t want the convention to be over, but when I left San Diego, I departed inspired. Inspired by blooming friendships, sweet memories, and an abundance of new knowledge to share with our staff and community. Thank you so much!”
RPMDA is a group of music retailers, publishers and others, committed to “providing a common meeting ground for the interchange of ideas among dealers, to promote ethical standards and policies in dealing with music publishers, and to promote better and more meaningful dealer-publisher relations.” Its first convention was held in 1976, and the group has been a strong voice in the music industry ever since. For more information, go to www.printmusic.org.
