BUSINESS FOCUS

Not your typical music store

    In a room that once knew the bustle of a restaurant and the quiet hush of a jewelry store, small groups of people settle onto the carpet, lights dim, a three-piece band begins their first song of an intimate concert that will last over an hour to a captive and appreciative audience. 

    It’s not your typical music store.
    “We didn’t set out to reinvent the wheel,” owner Chris Morton said, regarding his store’s unorthodox events. “When we set out on our own, we wanted to be the same store as before. We still sell and repair guitars, drums, school band instruments, and pretty much every musical instrument and accessory. But we wanted to do more.”
    In April 2012, Northern Kingdom Music went out of business, closing its four retail locations, including Presque Isle’s Aroostook Music. Morton and fellow AM employees Larry Hall and Randy King were left without a job and Presque Isle without a music store. For Morton, it was a problem that begged to be solved.
    The trio opened King Morton’s Hall of Music (KMH Music, for short) in May 2012. They chose to retain the lease of the former AM building — formerly the Homesteaders Restaurant and later Brown’s Jewelry Store. 
    “Our first order of business was to remodel. We wanted to stick to the things we had done as Aroostook Music — business as usual,” said Morton. “My friend Derik Smith (of Smitten Promotions) mentioned a band was coming up from downstate to play nearby; they were looking for another venue to play while here; we had the space.” 
    Fliers were made and distributed, a tip bucket set up, and the band — Gunther Brown — played for about 40 people.
    “Derik and I talked about how certain local musicians never get opportunities to play their own songs. We decided to make the concerts regular events,” said Morton. Thus began the KMH In-Store Concert Series, a joint venture between KMH and Smitten. About once a month, KMH hosts a concert in a family-friendly atmosphere. Admission is free, thanks to sponsor Kentucky Fried Chicken, though donations are welcomed.
    Between concerts, KMH functions as a surprisingly well-rounded music store. 
    In addition to selling well-known instruments like Fender and Yamaha guitars and Tama drums, parents can purchase or rent-to-own school band instruments. The store also offers lesson and simple adjustments to complete overhauls of instruments.
    “Due to the unique variety of services, we get a lot of customers from Bangor to parts of Canada,” Morton said.
    FMI on upcoming concert dates and performers, visit KMH on Facebook (www.facebook/kingmortonshall) or visit 412 Main St.