What amazes me is that there IS a NAMM Show at all. During the past 5 years failing economy has resulted in the loss of many of the largest shows in the world - most recently the Eastern Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA. This particular event was the largest outdoor show in the world, every building at the Fairgrounds was filled to capacity with vendors displaying thousands upon thousands of newly introduced items, boat, motors, trailers, RVs, etc..., items where vast sums of disposable income was spent in the acquisition of some of the most expensive hobby and pastime goods on the planet.
More often than not, the same, disposable income is spent on arranger keyboards, guitars, amps, etc..., equipment that would be slated for the home hobbyist player(s) in various parts of the United States and around the globe. That income no longer exists, at least in the pockets and bank accounts of Joe Sixpack. And, it's Joe Sixpack that supports the major segments of the music industry - not the tiny percentage of pro players and performers. If you were to take a poll of this forum's membership, I'm confident that the percentage of individuals that solely rely on music as their only source of income, would be extremely small - probably less than 1 or 2 percent.
I had to attend many of the outdoor shows along the eastern seaboard for three decades. The cost to the exhibitors to have a booth, just a 10 X 10 booth space, is beyond anyone's wildest imagination. At a smaller show, one that attracted less than 20,000 spectators, the booth cost alone ranged $1,500 to $3,000 for a 3 to 4-day show. Add to that the salaries of the staff, meals, parking fees, motel or hotel expenses and that $3,000 can quickly reach $5,000 to $6,000, depending upon the location of the show. If the show takes place at a major city's convention center, booth space can range up to $20,000 for a 10 X 10. You have to sell a lot of arranger keyboards, amps, etc..., to make up the costs associated with the show.
Just be thankful there is still a NAMM show,
Gary