FORT WAYNE, IN — Sweetwater Sound, the third largest retailer of music instruments and pro audio equipment in the U.S., said its GearFest 2013 event, held June 21 and 22, was a record-breaker, with more than 7,000 participants, up from 6,000 in 2012, and with sales up by more than 36% over GearFest 2012. Launched in 2002, GearFest has emerged as the nation’s largest end-user-oriented music and pro audio festival, featuring exhibits from more than 200 manufacturers along with workshops, clinics, and seminars; live demos; special performances; a musician’s flea market; and more.
GearFest ’13 hosted a multitude of guests from all areas of the music industry for exciting performances and workshops. This year’s record producer Jack Douglas, producer/engineer Frank Filipetti, producer/engineer Fab Dupont, mixer Chris Lord-Alge, live sound engineer Rick Camp and many others. In total, GearFest included more than 140 workshops and seminars on guitar, recording, and live sound, music creation and electronic instruments.
More than 200 manufacturers of musical instruments, music technology, and audio equipment were on hand to give GearFest attendees a look at the latest gear, and more than $54,000 worth of instruments and equipment were given out as prizes.
For those who couldn’t attend GearFest in person, videos, photos, and hourly updates were posted to Sweetwater’s popular FaceBook page, as well as to YouTube, and sent via Twitter.
Also, more than 55 videos, including interviews, product demos and live performances, were recorded and will be posted on YouTube throughout July. Those already posted are viewable on YouTube.
CATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS ON YOUTUBE
Sweetwater Founder and President Chuck Surack remarked, “GearFest just continues to grow and grow. I’m so proud of everyone involved, from our loyal venders to our dedicated employees, for creating such a remarkable two days of music, education, and fun. GearFest is truly becoming a signature event in the music industry.”
For more info about Sweetwater Sound, go to www.sweetwater.com.
