Acoustic Corner

Of course, it wasn't that simple. It took six months of construction to turn the ugliest building in Black Mountain into a unique music store. Local multi-genre musician Matt Kinne came on-board right from the start, laying down his guitar in favor of a nail gun, at least for a few months. Stephanie bounced between laying pavers and painting walls to setting up the business accounting system and making vendor contacts. And, despite the constant stream of repairs now coming in the door, Tom attempted to get his shop back in order and to produce new instruments to fill the new showroom. Since opening in 2000, Acoustic Corner has grown steadily, in inventory, programs, community involvement, and commitment to our vision. Before the doors even opened, it was obvious that Tom would never be able to actually 'fill' the showroom, so we sought out other hand-made and well-made instruments to complement our stock. We found that this area was in serious need of a music store that catered to acoustic music, especially old-time, Celtic, and folk styles, and started carrying instruments and accessories that filled those needs. We built lesson rooms right from the beginning, and our teachers have kept them occupied ever since. Tom found he couldn't get anything done with all the repairs coming in, so in 2004 luthier John Logue joined us on a contractual basis to stem the tide of instruments needing care. We currently have two showroom employees: Matt Kinne is still with us and serves as our Showroom Manager, while David Zoll, who joined us in 2006, serves as our Setup Technician and Instruction Coordinator. Both David and Matt supplement their time at Acoustic Corner with teaching and performing. Stephanie received some training in violin set up and repair, which nicely balances the tedium of business accounting, though it doesn't help with the wood dust allergy. Moving beyond our initial modest intentions, we have also grown more convinced that what motivates us to operate a shop like Acoustic Corner is more important than ever. We strive to promote music playing for all ages, skill levels, and music genres, because it's fun, it's good for you, and it connects us to our music heritage. We strive to market and promote hand-made instruments whenever possible, and quality factory-made instruments from companies who appreciate independent merchants and demonstrate good economic and environmental ethics. We aim to provide the highest level of knowledgeable, helpful service in purchases, repairs, rentals, and instruction. And we support local community efforts that also encourage acoustic music-making, with cash and in-kind contributions and event participation. To-date, these programs include: You can read more about Tom on his webpage, and about our staff on our Staff and Services page. There's more detail about our business philosophy on our Philosophy page. The Gathering is a series of music and dance workshops and public concerts held each summer on the campus of Warren Wilson College, near Asheville, in the heart of North Carolina's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The Lake Eden Arts Festival or LEAF, is one of the best festivals of its size anywhere in the country -- certainly in the Southeast. It's an intimate gathering -- attendance is limited to 5000 people - on the beautiful and historic site of Black Mountain College. The festival features everything from fabulous music, dynamic poetry slams, contra and swing dance, healing arts, and lots of fun for kids. There are ample opportunities for a full range of experiences and expressions, and playful spirits of all ages are welcome.