The devastating wildfires in Southern California have prompted leading MI industry manufacturers to joined forces to help support the recovery of the area’s music programmes and musicians. Gibson and Guitar Center are rallying the music community through their philanthropic divisions Gibson Gives and The Guitar Center Music Foundation to provide immediate funds and support for musicians and humanitarian aid organisations across Los Angeles.

To maximise this effort, Gibson and Guitar Center have enlisted the assistance and support of prominent manufacturers from the MI industry including AKG, AlphaTheta/Pioneer, Audio-Technica, DW, Eastman, ESP Guitars, Hoshino (Ibanez Guitars/Tama Drums), JBL Professional, C.F Martin & Co, Pearl Drums, Remo Inc, Roland, Saga, Schecter Guitar Research, Shure, Sony Music, Universal Audio, Vater Percussion, Yamaha and Avedis Zildjian in a massive and unprecedented donation relief effort.

For musicians, music professionals or a non-profit music programme based in the Los Angeles area affected by the fires, The Guitar Center Music Foundation and Gibson Gives are donating a one-time grant to replace instruments and gear. Los Angeles musicians who lost their instruments and gear can apply through to 28 February 2025. Proof of loss or address may be required.

The brands have partnered with the Namm Foundation LA Wildfires Relief Fund as well as the Namm Show, which is providing two dedicated LA Wildfire Relief Centers during the upcoming Namm Show, held at the Anaheim Convention Center (23-25 January). These relief centres inform attendees on how they can support the coordinated efforts of this initiative. They will be in Hall C and in ACC North Level 2. For those who donate US$35 or more onsite to the GCMF at the Anaheim Convention Center, they will receive their choice of a special edition GCMF branded t-shirt, tote bag or hat.

‘We are devastated by the recent fires that have deeply affected our artist communities and the places they call home. In response, we are committed to providing impactful support to help rebuild and heal,’ says Gibson Gives Global Executive Director, Erica Krusen. ‘We understand the powerful role music plays in the healing process, and we will continue to stand with our community, using the strength of music to bring hope and recovery.’

‘I am deeply grateful to see such an outpouring of support from everyone coming together to assist musicians who have tragically lost their instruments in the fire,’ adds The Guitar Center Music Foundation Executive Director, Myka Miller. ‘This collective effort is not just about replacing instruments; it’s about restoring the power of music in people’s lives – a vital source of healing, renewal, and strength as they navigate the journey of rebuilding their lives and communities.’

‘We are overwhelmed and deeply appreciative of the generosity from our music industry. Namm and The Namm Foundation are collaborating closely with Namm Members to unify all efforts and maximise relief efforts for the those impacted by the LA Wildfires,’ says Namm President and CEO, John Mlynczak.

See also: 
Namm Foundation LA Wildfires Relief Fund