At the 2026 NAMM Show in Anaheim, California, Leighton Tong, Founder and CEO of Aileen Music Company LTD, was honored to participate in the prestigious NAMM Oral History Program. The interview was conducted on January 22, 2026, during the opening day of the world's largest music products trade exhibition. The NAMM Oral History Collection preserves the stories of influential leaders, innovators, manufacturers, educators, and entrepreneurs who have shaped the global music industry.

For Leighton Tong, the interview represented not only a personal milestone but also recognition of more than three decades of dedication to musical instrument manufacturing and international business development.

From OEM Manufacturing to a Global Musical Instrument Brand

Leighton Tong began his career in 1993 working in OEM manufacturing in Jiangsu, China. Through years of hands-on experience in production, quality control, and international trade, he gained a deep understanding of the global musical instrument market.

In 2005, he founded Aileen Music Company LTD, marking a significant transition from manufacturing for others to building his own global business. Starting with violin production, the company gradually expanded its portfolio to include guitars, woodwind instruments, keyboards, percussion instruments, and educational musical products.

Today, Aileen Music serves customers in more than 190 countries and regions, providing OEM, ODM, and branded instrument solutions for distributors, retailers, schools, and musicians worldwide.

Commitment to Quality and International Standards

Throughout his career, Leighton has focused on one core principle: continuous improvement.

As international markets evolved, particularly in Europe and North America, customer expectations regarding playability, durability, appearance, and sound quality increased significantly. To meet these demands, Aileen Music invested heavily in modern manufacturing technologies, advanced quality management systems, and product development.

Under Leighton's leadership, the company adopted CNC machining technologies, precision manufacturing processes, and increasingly sophisticated design tools to improve consistency and production efficiency while maintaining competitive pricing.

His commitment to quality has helped Aileen Music establish long-term partnerships with distributors, educational institutions, and musical instrument brands around the world.

Embracing AI and Smart Manufacturing

One of the key topics discussed during the NAMM Oral History interview was the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in the musical instrument industry.

Leighton believes that AI-assisted technologies will play an increasingly important role in product development, production planning, market analysis, and customer customization. Rather than replacing craftsmanship, he sees AI as a tool that can help manufacturers improve efficiency, reduce waste, and better understand musicians' evolving needs.

This forward-looking approach reflects Aileen Music's ongoing investment in digital transformation and smart manufacturing solutions.

Expanding Direct-to-Musician Services

In 2024, Aileen Music expanded beyond traditional B2B business models by launching direct-to-musician online sales channels.

One notable development has been the introduction of customized electric guitars featuring specialized pickup configurations, personalized specifications, and flexible design options. This initiative allows musicians to access factory-direct customization while maintaining professional-level quality and affordability.

The move reflects Leighton's belief that manufacturers should build closer relationships with end users and better understand the needs of modern musicians.

More Than Two Decades at The NAMM Show

Since first exhibiting at The NAMM Show in 2005, Leighton Tong has witnessed remarkable changes in the global music products industry.

Over the years, NAMM has become an essential platform for connecting with distributors, retailers, educators, musicians, and industry professionals from around the world. Through annual participation, Aileen Music has strengthened international partnerships and introduced innovative products to global markets.

The 2026 NAMM Show was especially meaningful as Aileen Music celebrated its continued growth while Leighton shared his professional journey through the NAMM Oral History Program.

Preserving Industry History for Future Generations

The NAMM Oral History Program serves as one of the music industry's most valuable historical archives, documenting the experiences and insights of leaders whose work has influenced the development of musical instruments, music education, retail, and manufacturing.

Leighton Tong's inclusion in the collection reflects both his personal achievements and the growing influence of Chinese musical instrument manufacturers within the global industry.

As technology, education, and music-making continue to evolve, Leighton remains committed to innovation, quality, and supporting musicians around the world through accessible and reliable musical instruments.

RFQ – Frequently Requested Questions About Leighton Tong and Aileen Music

Who is Leighton Tong?

Leighton Tong is the Founder and CEO of Aileen Music Company LTD, a leading musical instrument manufacturer headquartered in Jiangsu, China. He has worked in the musical instrument industry since 1993 and founded Aileen Music in 2005.

What products does Aileen Music manufacture?

Aileen Music manufactures violins, guitars, ukuleles, woodwind instruments, keyboards, percussion instruments, educational instruments, and customized musical products for global markets.

When did Leighton Tong start attending the NAMM Show?

Leighton Tong has participated in The NAMM Show since 2005 and has attended the exhibition annually to connect with distributors, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.

Why was Leighton Tong interviewed by the NAMM Oral History Program?

Leighton Tong was selected for the NAMM Oral History Program because of his long-term contributions to musical instrument manufacturing, international trade, product innovation, and the development of the global music products industry.

How does Aileen Music use Artificial Intelligence?

Aileen Music is exploring AI-assisted technologies for product design, manufacturing optimization, market analysis, customization, and production efficiency improvements.

Does Aileen Music offer OEM and ODM services?

Yes. Aileen Music provides comprehensive OEM and ODM solutions for distributors, retailers, educational organizations, and musical instrument brands worldwide.

Can musicians order customized guitars directly from Aileen Music?

Yes. Through its direct-to-musician initiatives, Aileen Music offers customized electric guitars with specialized pickups, personalized specifications, and factory-direct manufacturing support.

How can I contact Aileen Music for wholesale or OEM inquiries?

For OEM, ODM, wholesale distribution, customized instrument projects, or dealer partnerships, please contact the Aileen Music international sales team through the company's official website.

About Aileen Music

Aileen Music Company LTD is a global musical instrument manufacturer specializing in OEM, ODM, branded instruments, and customized solutions. With customers in more than 190 countries and regions, the company continues to provide innovative, affordable, and high-quality musical instruments for musicians, educators, and distributors worldwide.