INTERESTED in learning guitar or drums, or want to improve your existing skills? Fret Music in Church Street, Shirley, Southampton have arranged a series of in-store events to appeal to current customers and complete novices alike.
Some of the key people in the retail music business and experienced musicians will be visiting the store from October 31 to November 17.
Most of the events happen in store during the day from 10 to 5.00pm,
starting with a novel idea on Friday October 31 - a “Riffathon.” Hatched by rock legend Jimmy Page, a “Riffathon” gives budding guitarists a chance to play guitar in front of a panel of judges in Fret Music’s store. The winner goes through to the national finals where the overall winner will be presented with a guitar by the man himself.
The programme continues with a Taster Day on November 1, when resident drum and guitar teachers will be on hand to give practical demonstrations. Sunday November 2 sees a demonstration of Line 6 amplifiers featuring Jake Paland from successful German rock band "Victory" from 11.00 am to 3.00pm, with Gibson and Epiphone Guitars featured the next day, plus Tama drums and Shure and Phonic PA.
Over the following two weeks loads more demonstrations and guests have been lined up including Eddie Allan, Guitarist Magazine founder, Arbiter Drums getting a pounding from former Argent drummer Bob Henrit, and many more attractions before the rock event finishes on November 17 with a Mapex drum clinic.
This event costs £3, as does a guitar clinic with former member of The Band, Artie Traum, on November 13. The rest of the events are free - for more details ring Fret Music on 02380 774433, or see their website www.fretmusic.co.uk  (©Peter Ashton 2003)