A Sound Choice Celebrates 15 Years in Business

Patch spoke to Ken Johnson, owner of A Sound Choice in Branford, about the upcoming 15-year anniversary of his business, how they are celebrating, and what's new in the cool arena of music, instruments and accessories.  

Q: What's A Sound Choice all about and what sets it apart from other like-minded stores?

A Sound Choice is a full line music store that offers sales of instruments, music lessons, repair and modification of guitars, bass, violins, mandolins, banjos, amplifiers and other stringed instruments. Although the emphasis is on guitars and related products, a large variety all musical accessories can be found for many instruments as well as drum sets and hand percussion. Rental of band instruments is also available. Being a sole proprietor, service is a top priority. A Sound Choice has become known for knowledgeable customer service. 

Q: When did you open the store and what has changed over the years?

Since opening in June of 1998, A Sound Choice has expanded it's inventory greatly offering many more instruments to now having the largest selection of instruments on the shoreline. Having offered guitar and bass from its opening, the music program has grown to now offer drums, upright bass, piano, banjo, mandolin and ukulele lessons. 

Q: What are you doing to mark the special 15-year anniversary of your business?

From Thursday, September 26th through Saturday September 28th, there will be a 15th anniversary sale ending with an event on Saturday the 28th (rain date Sept. 29th) outdoors with performances by local bands, students and teachers to celebrate 15 years in business. There will be free products to give away as well as a drawing for an electric guitar, Ludwig piccolo snare, a Vox mini 3 amp and a microphone with cable and stand pack. Refreshments will be provided. The event will take place at the store. There will also be a food drive for the Branford soup kitchen.

Q: Tell us about you, the owner of A Sound Choice. What led you to open a music store?

I am a life-long resident of Branford and have played music most of my life. I played trumpet first and then turned to guitar. I played in bands in college and in area bands for more than 15 years. I decided to open A Sound Choice after realizing my knowledge of guitars, amplifiers and repairs was something other players asked me about and was something I could turn into a business.

Q: Why did you pick the town of Branford for your store? 

With no other music stores in the area, a business plan was made and a rent was found in Branford. Opening in Branford made perfect sense and the location made it easy for customers coming from other towns. Customers routinely travel up to an hour to come to the shop for products, repairs and service. There are so many products in the shop there is a sign that says "If you don't see it please ask, we might just have it."

Q: What's the most popular item right now in the store? 

Ukuleles have been popular as well as acoustic guitars. There's an interest for banjo now along with other acoustic instruments. From harmonicas to maracas, cowbells, bongos, djembes and more, there is something musical for everyone.

A Sound Choice
267 E. Main Street
Branford, CT 06405
Hours: Mon. 12-7; Tue.-Fri. 10:30-7; Sat. 10-4:30; Sun. closed 
203-315-8663p
203-315-8009f
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Sound-Choice/59569519537
Website asoundchoice.com