Local Musician Launches Strings ‘n Things to Revitalize Scene

Musician Ryan Camaioni has opened a new retail music store, Strings ‘n Things, in New Milford, Connecticut, aiming to create a vibrant community hub for local musicians. After relocating from California in 2014, Camaioni has dedicated a decade to developing his musical career and nurturing his dream of owning a music store, which finally became a reality with the grand opening on August 15, 2023.

Located on Kent Road/Route 7, Strings ‘n Things offers a range of electric and acoustic guitars, sound equipment, and accessories. The store also facilitates instrument rentals for students participating in local high school bands and orchestras. Camaioni envisions the store as a meeting point for musicians to share stories, music, and instruments, addressing a clear demand in the area.

“I want to create a community for musicians here in New Milford,” Camaioni stated. “The store can become a central hub for people; to share stories, music, instruments. There’s a need for it here.”

Filling a Void in the Local Music Scene

Strings ‘n Things is strategically positioned next to an antique and vintage shop at 209 Kent Road. The inviting space is stocked with guitars from renowned brands such as Squier, Gibson, Epiphone, Fender, and Ibanez. In addition to standard offerings, Camaioni has curated unique items, including a charango, a Hawaiian ukulele, and an Appalachian dulcimer, all of which he hopes to pass on to new owners who will appreciate their musical potential.

To further support the local music community, Camaioni has implemented an instrument rental program, making saxophones, clarinets, flutes, violins, and cellos available to students in the New Milford public schools. This initiative addresses a gap left by the closure of the New Milford Music Center, which ceased its retail operations in 2011.

Despite the presence of Bearclaw’s Academy of Music, which has provided music lessons for a decade, Camaioni recognized the need for a dedicated music store. He noted that some music-related establishments in Connecticut have closed, indicating a shift in the local music landscape.

“It’s a different music scene in Connecticut. It’s very local,” Camaioni explained. “Danbury had a big music scene back in the 80s, and people say it’s back, so I want to make that happen here. There are so many musicians out there, working and playing, waiting for a new store to open.”

A Hub for Collaboration and Connection

Camaioni, an accomplished guitarist and member of the band Gumbo, which plays ska, reggae rock, and alternative music, wants to foster collaboration between his store and the local schools’ music programs. He expressed enthusiasm about connecting with students and helping them access the instruments they need.

In addition to Strings ‘n Things, Camaioni operates Certified Studios, a private sound company in New Milford that provides musicians with a space to record and rehearse. He hopes to expand his vision by eventually finding a larger venue that could accommodate both his store and event space.

“That would be amazing,” he said. “I drive by the old Cookhouse restaurant and I can imagine what it would be like to have a big music center there. But it’s got a pretty big price tag; it’s expensive.” The Cookhouse property at 31 Danbury Road is currently listed for $1.99 million.

Since its opening, Camaioni has received significant support from the community, including a visit from Mayor Pete Bass, who welcomed the new business with enthusiasm. “The mayor was great; he was like a little kid,” Camaioni said. “He took a lot of pictures and was very interested in everything. It was great that he came down for the grand opening.”

Customer feedback has also been overwhelmingly positive. “People are coming in all the time, saying they’re so happy to have a music store again in town,” Camaioni noted. He has already seen a steady flow of musicians stopping by to purchase strings and explore the guitars available for sale.

Camaioni is particularly excited about the connections he has made, stating, “I’ve met so many new people, helped artists connect, facilitated artists getting new guitars and amps. I realized the store was really clicking when people started coming in not having time to chat but literally on their way to a gig and just needed some strings, cables, and a tuner. This store is growing by the day.”

As Strings ‘n Things continues to flourish, Camaioni remains dedicated to nurturing the local music community and ensuring that New Milford becomes a lively center for musical talent and collaboration. Those interested in visiting the store can find it on Facebook or contact them at 860-799-0555.