Under Larry Thomas' leadership as chairman and co-CEO of Guitar Center, the company has grown from three to 130 stores nationwide and is the world's largest retailer of musical instruments. Before joining the corporate world, Mr. Thomas was a touring musician, playing in various Top 40 and cabaret bands. He is a member of the World Presidents' Organization, Young Presidents' Organization and a former board member of NAMM, the International Music Products Association. He has been honored by the American Society of Young Musicians and is a recipient of the Julia Crane International Award of Outstanding Accomplishment in Music Retail. Mr. Thomas was named "Guitar Man" by the Los Angeles Business Journal and "Mr. Guitar" by Vintage Guitar magazine.