RETAIL MERLIN MUSIC
Left to right: Bridget Gray, Iain Fraser, Donald Knox, Ian Lowthian and Andy Gray
Tuesday evenings. Beginner and intermediate classes will run consecutively and students will be able to take RSMAD examinations as part of the service. To make the prospect of taking up an instrument even more tempting, Merlin’s students will also be able to use the gear free of charge and for those wanting to take them home and practice, only a small hire fee is required. There will also be the opportunity for learners to take part in end of term concerts. As we’re a while away from the opening
of the academy, the jury is still out on whether or not it will be a success, but the decision to introduce a service like this is
mi-pro.co.uk
something that other retailers could and perhaps should take note of. “It’s absolutely crucial to be part of the community, while also getting involved with schools and the Council, if possible,” stresses Gray. “It’s important to consider your location and look at the local market place, as well as find out what types of music are popular in the area. We also
make sure to go along to all festivals nearby, as we’ve found that’s another great way of getting our name out there.” Choosing accordion, fiddle and guitar
“
as tuition subjects might not attract hordes of wannabe musicians in other areas of the UK, but Merlin seems to
It’s absolutely crucial to
be part of the community. Bridget Gray
know what they’re doing, and they’ve already got plans for expansion in place. “These are the most popular instruments at this moment in time – we did think about doing the same with pipes, for example, but it would have made it so much more complicated,” reveals Gray. “However, we’ve had other tutors knocking on our door, so there’s always a possibility of moving into other categories in the future.” The academy is expected to opens its
doors in September, with a launch concert currently earmarked for August. Merlin recently launched its new website (
merlinmusicmelrose.co.uk), where visitors can book a lesson online. Various suppliers have already declared an interest in providing instruments and appearing at the launch, but the academy is currently on the lookout for more distribution companies to participate. MERLIN MUSIC: 01896 822376
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