A group of Boise State University music students attended the 2026 National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Show in January, supported by a grant from the School of the Arts. The trip aimed to help students build connections and gain experience in the modern music industry.
The opportunity allowed students to meet industry professionals, explore new technologies, and learn about current trends. Professor Nicole Moluby led the cohort of students and faculty to the event, which is known for bringing together key figures from across the music business.
Christine Nygard, a Bachelor of Arts in Music student expected to graduate in 2027, described the event as “like Disneyland for us.” She recalled attending early morning breakfasts where students sat alongside CEOs and major industry leaders. During their time at NAMM, attendees also had opportunities to network with well-known musicians such as five-time Grammy winner Victor Wooten. “He gave great advice,” Nygard said. “He talked about how, as a young artist, you just have to go for it. He told us to make it a priority to know everybody that you’re working with.”
Students explored new instruments and technology on display at the show. Nygard highlighted her experience with a new synth instrument called the Orchid, describing its features and potential use for solo artists working in genres like bedroom pop. “I could loop, I could change keys, I could create a chord, and I could do that off just one button,” she said.
The group attending NAMM represents Boise State’s first Bachelor of Arts in Music cohort within the School of the Arts. This degree program is designed for creative work outside traditional performance or education tracks and includes coursework in areas such as music production and talent management.
Nygard said she is considering entertainment law as a career path and believes her experiences at NAMM will support her future goals.
