Mark’s Music Studio

Check out my page on Computer Consulting and Sales. Since 1998 we have actively been selling computers and fixing computer problems. We have specialized experience in working with MIDI, recording software and other music applications, as well as  general skills and kowledge on taking care of everyday computing problems. We sell a great line of quality desktops and laptops as well. Check them out at www.equuscs.com and email or call us for a free quote.

We are always looking for your guitars and interesting gear to trade in.  We also do consignments.  I have recently sold some very interesting guitars by Martin, Blueridge and others.  For the serious buyer,  I have access to some interesting Gibsons and Fenders. Let me know what you are searching for-email or call.

Mark’s Music has always been really into “tweaking the knobs” and dialing in the right sound with mixers and mics. We now also offer visual services as well.  We set up and install projection systems and screens for any auditorium or house of worship.  With over 25 years of audio experience, we can set you up with the “best possible integration” between your, sound system, video system and computers.

If you are interested in music making software, we are too. Software titles that we have actually used here are: Finale, Cake walk (Sonic), Pro Tools, Band-in-a-Box. 

The first music making computer programs for public purchase became available in the mid to late ’80s but since then things have never been the same. Today’s music making programs are extremely affordable, widely available and easier to use than the early ones. 

If you are interested in further exploration of this interesting field or just have some questions give us a call. We have access to a wide variety of software products and can match you up with the correct computer hardware in order to make things work their very best.

We have been busy with P.A systems lately. We set up a really awesome portable system for an area school. The Fender Passport-500 is an amazing system. It has all of the compactness of a suitcase PA but with tons of  extra power and 8 complete input channels. Everything folds up into one case for storage. If you are new to Passport PA visit www.fender.com and check it out.

We have also recently installed the amazing new Peavey Sanctuary Series mixer in a local church. The Sanctuary series has all the latest amazing features that are so important for churches, for example: automatic feedback elimination, an auto mixing feature, amazing signal processing and effects that are designed specifically for churches. Visit www.peavey.com and check out Sanctuary Series mixers.

  Quite often, I find that churches already have some decent equipment but it is not being used to it’s fullest potential, or may not be set up properly for their particular sanctuary.  If your church is have any challenges with PA gear just give us a call. We give free advice over the phone and have reasonable rates for service calls.

Attention string students: At Mark’s Music we have all of the strings and accessories for your violin, viola, cello or bass. We have over 20 years of experience in servicing and repairing stringed instruments. We carry Dominant, Prelude and Super Sensitive strings, as well as rosin, shoulder rests, string books and bows.

If you would like to have your instrument looked over-free of charge-please call or bring it over. Stringed instruments are generally more fragile than brass or wind instruments, therefore they should be checked over regularly for proper maintenance and to keep your instrument in good shape for the year ahead!

You may be curious about digital (electric) pianos and keyboards-

For instance, I get a bunch of questions about using keyboards for piano instruction.

Well, here are a few basic things to keep in mind. If you do not own a traditional piano- or your piano is in extremely poor condition you potentially might be better off looking into the keyboard option.

Benefits: Keyboards can work well in rooms with multi activities, such as tv, conversation, and living activities because Keyboards work with headphones. Once you plug these in you are all alone with your music.

Keyboards are generally more portable than pianos, they can be moved from room to room.

Keyboards usually have features which assist with practicing, such as, built in metronomes and recorders.

Requirements: Keyboards have become more widely accepted by pianists and teachers as the features have improved.

Your keyboard should have a minimum of 61keys ( 5 octaves). This number of keys is acceptable for beginners. As the student advances, a full 88 key model will be needed.

The keyboard should also have touch response, this means the touch of the keys should play louder or softer depending on finger touch alone.

Your keyboard also needs a sustain pedal.  These are the most essential features for beginning piano lessons. 

The next most common question is: How much do I have to spend?

Generally, if you want the basic features mentioned above you should be able to get a really nice keyboard for well below $1000.  Some of these features can be found on models costing less than $500.

If you want to spend more, you certainly will find plenty to fit the bill. A thought to keep in mind however is that keyboards are basically “technology” therefore the “bells and whistles” tend to become outdated. So, I tell my customers not to be mesmerized by a whole list of features that you will probably never use. Also some models are sold on their beautiful cabinetry. I don’t usually recommend this as a value added feature either, unless the keyboard is being used somewhere where looks really matter.  Once you start into models with these upscale features, you get into the price range of really nice acoustic pianos. Acoustic pianos tend to be a better investment over time because they don’t depreciate as much as electronics.

The last point is that if you are looking at higher end keyboards, you should compare and contrast their upgradability, and the cost of the upgrades. Also the more expensive you go, the more you should stick with a long term reliable company.

We handle a variety of keyboards and would be happy to visit with you more about any additional questions you might have.  Thanks, Mark.

These are some of the interesting instruments we have sold recently:

In August: We just sold a beautiful Martin D35 acoustic in like new condition. It was new in ‘98 with zero scratches and absolutely mint.

In July: We just sold a beautiful new Washburn 12 string D10s-12. This is a solid spruce top guitar with a beautiful and powerful tone quality.

We also have sold several cool Dean electrics recently. We carry Dean guitars as well as Washburn.

Another really cool acoustic line that we sell is the “Recording King” vintage acoustic guitars, as well as mandolins and Banjos. These instruments really have some awsome tone and are really popular.

We also sell “Kentucky Mandolins.” I understand it is a year wait right now for a top of the line F style.

In May I sold a really sweet Blueridge Dreadnought with solid rosewood back and sides. This guitar was loaded with mother of pearl and quite a sight.

The great thing to remember is when you buy a guitar from me, you are never stuck with it for life. I always take trade ins and sell consignments!

We plan to have cool guitars coming in every 2-3 weeks from now until the holidays.

If you are looking for something, maybe we can help. Just email me at mark@marksmusicstudio.com and I will be only too happy to assist your quest. I have lots of contacts in the music industry and can come up with some amazing finds and super deals.  Regards, Mark

Have you always wanted to play piano, but never had an opportunity before?

Maybe, you’ve had some lessons years ago, and want to refresh?

Well, this all sounds great but, I’m too old to deal with formal lessons–

Never fear, I have taught many adults over the years and am especially familiar with the desires, goals and concerns of adult students. We work together at your pace, with your schedule and we give you lots of encouragement along the way. 

If you think you might be interested, but have been putting it off–just mention this Blog when you call and I’ll give you 1 free lesson just to give it a try. ( only now thru Aug. 31, 2008. Adult students, must be between the ages of 18 and 100 to qualify.)

Remember Music is supposed to be fun!!