My old music store provided services that no Internet or big-box store provides.

When I wanted to improve a PA set, the owner loaned me a Sonic Maximizer, told me to take it on the job, and return it next week unscratched if I don't like it. No deposit, no credit card authorization, no restocking fee, just trust. BTW, he analyzed my PA needs and recommended the perfect product for what I wanted to do.

I wanted a new mic for my sax, and he went to the recording studio in the back, and loaned me one to try in the job. It was perfect. He said keep using it and he'll order a new one. A week or so later the new mic came in, I returned the loaner and when I checked the price, it was a couple of dollars cheaper than Sam Ash would have charged me and I didn't have to play shipping.

And these are two examples of many favors and expert recommendations.

He had 3 bays in a strip center, sold guitars, PA Gear, drums, band instruments and had a guitar tech on the premises and a band instrument tech associated with the store.

Then Guitar Center came to town. First went the strings and accessories. GC charged small change less than he could buy them for. Then the stock on the showroom floor diminished and he eventually shrunk to one bay. A year or so later he moved to a less expensive strip center, and after that lease was up he is now teaching guitar and piano out of his home.

2 other local stores suffered similar fates. Now there isn't a local music store for over 50 miles from me. Just a GC where you get no professional advice.

I suppose for those local stores still struggling, COVID is putting the nails in the coffins.

If you appreciate having a local music store, please get all your gear there, including strings, reeds and all the little stuff, it keeps the cash flow going and helps them pay the rent.

Notes


Bob "Notes" Norton smile Norton Music
https://www.nortonmusic.com

100% MIDI Super-Styles recorded by live, pro, studio musicians for a live groove
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