Ludwig at Musikmesse

The 2008 Frankfurt International Musikmesse was witnessed by thousands of show-goers from March 12 to 15, and the Ludwig Crew was there in full-force with a showing of the latest and greatest in the legendary line of percussion products.
Either He’s 20’ Tall, or That’s a Really Small Drum Kit!
Ludwig Artist Relations Specialist Todd Trent lays a phat groove down on an Accent Junior Outfit
The Ludwig-Musser Stand, Frankfurt Musikmesse 2008
For those not able to attend, The Ludwig-Musser line of complete percussion instruments was well represented at the Frankfurt Fair. Displaying over 25 snare drums, 8 total drum kits, 4 tympany, a set of vibes, a marimba, a small kitchen, and 3 meeting rooms is not an easy feat in this small space, but we were able to pull it off AND survive Public Day in the process!
Classics in Maple and Poplar
In addition to these beautiful Classic Maple (6-pc. in Gold Sparkle,) and new Legacy Classic (5-pc. Big Beat in Silver Sparkle,) kits on display, show-goers were treated to a sneak-peek of the new Centennial Series (see it in the newly-revised Ludwig 2008 Catalogue) as well as a Fab Four kit in White Marine Pearl, an Accent Nomad kit, an Accent Custom Elite kit in Redburst Glitter, and an Accent Custom kit in Satin Red lacquer.
 
Adios, Rene’ Rockett!
Musikmesse 2008 saw the retirement of one of the greats in the international music products industry.  Rene’ Rochat, who has been the Ludwig sales rep in Europe for 16 years (and in the industry for MUCH longer,) retires from service this year; but won’t soon be forgotten for his tireless passion, exceptional service to those lucky enough to work with him, and excellent taste in fine cuisine.  Seen here flanked by Musser Director of Marketing Jim Catalano, Artist Relations Specialist Todd Trent, and new Ludwig Director of Marketing Kevin Packard at a gathering in his honor, Rene’ was treated to a musical tribute entitled “Rene’ Rockett” (written for vibes and jazz combo,) by Jim Catalano.
The Ludwig Crew
As the final strains of drumming chaos echoed through Halle 3.0 on Public Day in Frankfurt, The Ludwig Crew stood amongst the emptiness of what was once the Ludwig-Musser booth to bask in percussive brotherhood and the end of a great show. Shown here are Edwin Kas (from Ludwig distributor Fentex,) Kevin Packard (Ludwig Combo Director of Marketing,) Milan Ridderhof (Fentex,) Jim Catalano (Ludwig-Musser Orchestral Director of Marketing,) Todd Trent (Ludwig Artist Relations,) Marc (from German Ludwig dealer Music Maintal,) Edwin Plooijer (Fentex,) and Grant Henry (General Manager of Ludwig-Musser.)   
The Wall of Snare Drums
The classic sound of Ludwig USA Snare Drums was well represented in every material from Brass to Maple to Copper to “The Chief” Wm. Ludwig II Titanium snare.
Inked in Black Beauty Devotion
One dedicated German Ludwig drummer went so far as to have this 1923 Ludwig Deluxe Scroll-engraved Black Beauty tattoo-banded around his arm.  Now THAT’s devotion!
The Ladies Love J-Cat’s VIBE!
We don’t know who this talented young French musician is, but her fabulous vibes chops left many show-goers stunned and awestruck. Ludwig-Musser’s own resident mallet percussion impressario Jim Catalano took the opportunity to not only jam a tune or two with the lovely lady, but impress her with his own buttery-smooth vibes stylings!  Way to go, Meistro!
If The Shirt Fits….Wear It!
Ludwig-Musser General Manager Grant Henry has been insistent at the fact that he is not a TRUE drummer until he has played in front of a crowd.  Having kicked out the jams on the new Ludwig Centennial during the show, Artist Relations Specialist Todd Trent took the opportunity to tag Heir Henry with the trappings of a true skinsman.