Giving the Gift of Music

Everyone has a musician or two on their holiday shopping list and we are all, in some form or fashion, lovers of music.

It’s no secret that I come from a very musical family. Some of my most favourite holiday memories are of gathering around the piano at Aunt Velma’s house after Thanksgiving and of my father singing at church for Christmas eve candle light services. 

One of the most influential gifts I ever received was the piano that my parents got me when I was 4 and the instruction I received at Brandolino’s Music store when it was back in the old Joliet Neighborhood.

Brandolino’s Encore Music Center has since migrated to Shorewood, expanding both their showroom and their services. In addition to a great selection of musical instruments and accessories, they also offer rentals, instruction, gift certificates and repairs.

For my final shopping-local excursion I spoke with Bobby Brandolino, who owns and operates the center about how and why music is so important this time of year.

“Giving the "Gift of Music' is a fulfilling experience," he said. "For example, you buy someone a gift certificate for music lessons. Months later you see that person and they demonstrate what they have learned while taking lessons. It warms you up & puts a smile on your face. That is a great thing.”

Bobby has a massive list of choices for the musician on your list. And, Brandolino’s offers so much more than what you would find at the chain stores. The staff loves what they do and it shows.

“Family owned and operated means that you are going to be helped by a handful of the same people every time you come in… They have a stake in the business so you, as a customer will be treated like family," he said. "Plain and simple it boils down to excellent service.”

"We Make Musicians," he said. “And we offer hands down, the best in musical instrument instruction. Our teaching staff is phenomenal."

So, as I wrap up my own holiday shopping, (all finished, all presents purchased locally as promised),  I encourage you to plant a harmony in someone’s head by sharing the gift of Music with your loved ones this season. 

Editor's Note: Are you looking for something to get you in the holiday spirit? Come listen to the Christmas Carols and a performance from the Channahon Junior High School band at annual Channahon tree lighting ceremony. Santa Claus will be there to visit and take pictures. Trees will be adorned with decorations from our local day care/preschools. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies and then go on a horse drawn wagon ride or create a cookie decorating craft with the Three Rivers Public Library. The event is from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 11 at