Zach Barnes comes to NMAAM with a background in event sales and hospitality. He got his start at two iconic music institutions, the Grand Ole Opry House and Ryman Auditorium, where he discovered how to combine his love for music, people, and storytelling through events.

In 2013, Zach graduated from Columbia College Chicago and packed up for Nashville to chase his passion for music and live experiences. Since then, he’s watched the city grow and change, which only fuels his excitement about what’s ahead and the opportunities still to come.

Zach’s love for music began at an early age while watching his mother perform with the Evansville Symphony Band. A clarinet and saxophone player, she often taught jazz students, and Zach spent summers watching her perform live, experiences that sparked his lifelong passion for music. He would always sneak into the living room to watch her teach and play the saxophone, moments that stuck with him and helped shape his love for music.

At NMAAM, some of Zach’s favorite events are the ones that shine a light on unsung heroes and pioneers in music and culture, from trailblazers like Linda Martell and Little Anthony to a world-class puppeteer like Megan Piphus of Sesame Street. Getting to honor people who often don’t get the spotlight is what makes the work most meaningful to him.

Outside of NMAAM, you’ll probably find Zach hanging out with his two dogs, Shocka and Cassandro, grabbing dinner at a favorite local restaurant with his partner, or cheering at a local pro-wrestling show.