The manager of Lacombe-based Roosters Acoustics wants to see an expansion of music education across the community.
The business, which opened officially in late October, continues to broaden its reach by offering uniquely crafted guitars for sale, a range of lesson packages, and a coffee bar as well, said Evan Scholing, the shop’s manager.
Plans are taking shape to offer a space for sharing one’s skills directly with others as well.
“We have a little jam space which is going to be for drop-in jamming sessions on Sunday afternoons. It will be like an open mic, where you can just pick up your guitar and get jamming,” he said, adding that they are currently gauging what the local interest in that kind of venture would be.
Originally, the company opened a shop in Canmore a couple of years back.
Owner Joel Martens had seen that there wasn’t much in the way of a music store in that community at the time and eventually saw that Lacombe presented a similar kind of opportunity.
Scholing is a guitarist himself, so working at Roosters Acoustics is an ideal fit.
“I walked in, I met Joel and we chatted for a while. He said he was looking for someone to run this location full-time, and we both had a similar vision for it, too,” said Scholing.
“So he brought me onboard.
“I love music, and I love guitars, so being around guitars all day is a great thing,” he said.
Meanwhile, Scholing said part of that vision is to establish a ‘go-to’ spot for those interested in pursuing lessons, and for being around others who share a love for music as well.
“It’s a cool spot where you can have coffee, play guitars, learn how to play an instrument and meet other musicians.
“One of the best parts has been to see the excitement level of people who have discovered us already. It’s been very encouraging for sure.”
For more information, find Roosters Acoustics on Facebook.
