John and Pam Edwards have owned TuneTown Music Gear in Wells for 18 years. They brought decades of musical industry experience to a vision of providing positive and nurturing experiences within music instruction, service, and sales. Their business features nine large state of the art lesson studios, a recording studio and a live performance stage. In the showroom, they offer a selection of instruments, keyboards, amplification, PA and recording gear, print music and accessories at competitive prices. Audio visual installations have been designed and completed in schools, churches, restaurants and Pease AFB. TuneTown also provides repairs and maintenance on most instruments and some electronics.
When the pandemic hit, John and Pam complied with the State’s request to close their retail store and halt in-person lessons. But they were able to quickly pivot their business, offering both curbside pickup and delivery to homes and businesses for merchandise. John and store manager Seph managed to install and learn new software over one weekend, so TuneTown’s teachers could continue providing lessons through online, live sessions. As they navigated this new world, they reached out to Maine SBDC Business Advisor Susan Desgrosseilliers for guidance.
They met with Susan regularly to discuss the frequent changes and the next steps for TuneTown. Pam commented, “There has been an avalanche of news and advice from too many outlets to count and we are deeply grateful to you for guiding us past the extraneous details to focus on the essentials.”
With Susan’s help, they were able to access key pandemic relief funds through SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) which helped them to maintain employees during this challenging time. They add, “Partners Bank in Sanford has been a huge asset in helping us weather this storm, as well as Susan Desgrosseilliers from the SBDC. Both have given sage advice and resources and we are grateful for their assistance.”
For a full listing of their products and services visit their website and for the most recent updates check out their Facebook and Instagram pages. To get started with your musical future now check out their YouTube channel for tutorial and much more!