Behind the Business: Sharon Marrell

Sharon Marrell has hit all the right notes since she opened up her business on Madison Avenue two years ago.

Since then, things have just gotten better at Marrell Musical Instrument Repair — a store that fixes and sells new and used instruments.

In fact, demand has outgrown the space available.

With more than 100 students and eight employees (including seven teachers), Marrell ran out of room to give lessons.

Last month, she took over the neighboring storefront and doubled in size from 750 square feet to 1,500 square feet.

There were two music lessons rooms. Now, there are five. There’s also a new spacious showroom with instruments for sale.

Before opening the shop at 13733 Madison Avenue, Marrell fixed instruments and gave lessons in her Cook Avenue home.

“I decided that I wanted to be out in front of the community more,” said Marrell. “I was missing out on the Lakewood people."

The 52-year-old North Canton native said she never expected to settle in Lakewood — but said she’s happy she did.

“It was neat to realize how much of a walking town this is,” she said. “Everything is very easy to get to.”

Lakewood Patch took a few minutes to get to know Marrell a little better. Our take on the Proust Questionnaire, crafted by French writer Marcel Proust, seems like a perfect fit.

What’s your favorite place to eat in Lakewood: or . It’s a toss up.

Favorite place to spend time with your family: .

Your chief characteristic: Friendliness, inclusiveness and integrity.

Favorite characteristic in friends: Truthfulness and loyalty.

Your idea of happiness: Traveling and having a successful business.

Where would you like to live: Probably a warmer state — probably Arizona.

Favorite artist: John Singer Sargent.

Favorite food, favorite drink: I like wine and I like pizza.

What I hate the most: Having to do paperwork. I’d rather be doing my repairs.

The natural talent I’d like to be gifted with: There’s nothing I can think of that I want for.

What is your present state of mind: Very satisfied.

Your favorite motto: Keeping the musician in you playing effortlessly.