Synergy in the Strings
There are
those who shred it every time their fingers hit the strings. There are those who coax out harmony in the chords. In their hands, guitars become like voices; in this space, they beckon musicians of all persuasions to enter a no-ego zone and just let the music flow.
The Guitar Spot in Red Lion is a place for musicians operated by working musicians. With its selection of consignment, new, vintage and used stringed instruments — plus amps, drums and PA equipment — The Guitar Spot has been a sought-out York County destination for stringed instrument musicians of all ages.
Complementing the physical instruments are the artist-teachers instrumental in nurturing its nirvana: Trey Alexander, Tony Aguirre, Randy Hake and Dean Phillips. “We all have a positive attitude toward music,” says owner Chad Ward, “and we embrace everyone from hobbyists to professionals with open arms.”
“It’s been three years since I started playing guitar, and every lesson I’ve had has been a quality one,” says student Rick Folkenroth, who hones his bass guitar skills with Randy Hake. Folkenroth, a Vietnam veteran, believes that making music allows him to better manage his affliction with PTSD. “Randy is just one hell of a guitar player and teacher. He gives me the incentive to work harder with my music.”
The Guitar Spot’s musical circle also extends to master luthier Jeff Hostetter and his skill for repairing stringed instruments. Next door, Tom Anderton of Tom’s Music Trade embraces the trade and sales of vinyl records, 45s, CDs and DVDs.
But the music itself isn’t isolated to the shop’s studios alone. The Guitar Spot is also visibly involved in the Red Lion community through events such as the craft beer and music festival Suds and Songs as well as supporting youth and developing their musical interests at the 18 South Youth Center. This community support is further enhanced through the work of Chad’s wife Donna Deerin Ward and Artemis – The Art of Living, an arts and wellness center located in the historic Spangler/Winters Building that shares space with The Guitar Spot.
“There’s a great synergy that happens here,” Ward adds. “We give people that uplifting experience through music.”
INSIDER TIP
Where else but The Guitar Spot can you perfect your fingering techniques with teachers such as 50-plus-year guitar master Randy Hake or pick up a few cool lick tricks with 2006 Guitar Hero champion Trey Alexander?
- 30 N. Main St. Red Lion, PA 17356
- 717.515.0815