Replying to myself… Lol.
Further, I have been to other stores where 1) the “salesperson” is not a player of the instruments they sell - which is totally understandable - but the store visit can feel like a sterile or “cold” experience as a result… even if the rep is attentive (which they often are not).
Or… 2) the store reps may have had a love or desire when they started in the store business… but over time and countless customers, it transitioned into just a business or a nameless stream of unknown customers rather then aspiring musicians. Either they have “egos” where they act pretentious… or disinterested if you are not buying a professional (expensive) product providing a sizeable commission.
@BanjoBen, @Jake - you guys are AWESOME as you both are NONE it these things!
You realize that $100 is a real BIG DEAL and a hard-earned “investment” stemming from a genuine interest. We students are EXCITED to get that 1st model. We WANT to make the educated and best choices for accessories and equipment.
You guys are so kind and good at what you do and patient with us… even SHARING in our enthusiasm, our quest for knowledge and that rush of picking (pun intended) our axe… our friend… our (in some cases) LIFE-companions.
When I watch @BanjoBen play a lesson or sample an instrument… I actually FEEL that appreciation and devotion to your craft… Including that Excitement for the craftsmanship in the instrument. Even if it is a “starter model”, you genuinely convey the value to us… making us TRUST your offerings without fear of throwing down our hard-earned cash!
When I see @BanjoBen host an artist to share with us… And you can see the joy in the musical connection (the musical “conversation”) which results in smiles and comments between @BanjoBen and the artist… he just can’t “fake” that.
It shines through where we feel like… One day… we can arrive there too.
@Jake 's instructional videos are similar… always with good info and tips that goes well beyond the basics… insight from knowing your craft so well. You cannot “fake” this type of sharing because the desire to share and go that extra distance comes only from within.
All this with that ever-present humor (to break away the ego and nerves) while putting smiles on our faces.
Thank you @BanjoBen and @Jake. I am here to remind you that these qualities go well beyond the solid value of Life Membership!
Where can you find that kind of personal attention, passion and genuine interest? Only at @BanjoBen 's Store… And may it always remain so!