RCC Dominates 2024 NAMM Show

At the recent NAMM Show, Riverside City College (RCC) students and faculty made a significant impact once again. RCC Audio and Music Technology left a lasting impression with a remarkable turnout. The event boasted an impressive team, led by Associate Professor of Audio & Music Technology Jennifer Amaya, comprised of 45 RCC student volunteers and 13 student volunteers from other institutions, including Norco College, Mira Costa College, Rio Hondo College, Cal Poly Pomona University, Saddleback College, and Liberty University.

RCC students took on volunteer roles working at the worldwide non-profit MIDI Association booth, with some securing paid gigs as booth and audio/visual managers.  The A/V students were initially assisted by RCC’s Assistant Professor of Studio Recording and Live Sound, Sean Sheldrake, running sound from a mixing board using a state-of-the-art silent listening system. Six students were also hired for setup and teardown duties.

Notably, 13 RCC Music Industry Club students received hotel accommodations and financial support courtesy of ASRCC.

Professor Amaya expressed gratitude for the students' dedication, saying, "It took about 50 hours to put together a booth schedule based on everyone’s availability, and I’m happy to say that all of the students really came through this year.  The students were awesome. Our student leaders were outstanding. They took a lot of the stress away from myself and the MIDI Association leaders.  They ran that booth like champs."

Amaya also served as a panelist for two sessions at the Show. Initially, she participated in "Designing a 21st Century Audio Curriculum" alongside three other professors from around the United States. Later, she contributed to a panel discussion at the MIDI Association booth, representing the MIDI in Music Education committee.

Highlighting exceptional achievements, RCC saw one student, Ariana Mejia, selected as a NAMM intern, a rare and prestigious opportunity. Additionally, five RCC students received the Lamond GenNext scholarship, and two secured paid positions as product representatives for Robkoo, a Chinese electronic wind synthesizer company.

The NAMM experience provided valuable learning opportunities, granting students red "exhibitor" badges for round-the-clock access to the convention center.  Despite the demanding schedule, students bonded over meals and had plenty of time to explore the exhibition hall and attend educational sessions.

RCC’s meticulous planning and coordination ensured a smooth and successful event. With a larger booth size and an impressive lineup of presentations and performances, RCC students showcased their talents and engaged with industry professionals.

Stay tuned to RCC News for more updates and inspiring stories from the 2024 NAMM Show.