Musician Ryan Camaioni recently opened a new music store, Strings ‘n Things, in New Milford, Connecticut, aiming to create a vibrant community hub for local musicians. The store, which opened its doors on August 15, 2023, offers a variety of electric and acoustic guitars, sound equipment, and accessories, alongside a rental program for students in the area.
Camaioni, who relocated from California to Connecticut in 2014, has dedicated the past decade to refining his passion for music and business. His dream of establishing a retail space for musicians has now become a reality on Kent Road/Route 7. “I want to create a community for musicians here in New Milford,” Camaioni stated. He envisions the store as a central meeting point for sharing stories, music, and instruments.
Local Music Scene Revived
Located next to an antique shop at 209 Kent Road, Strings ‘n Things features a wide selection of instruments from brands like Squier, Gibson, and Fender. Camaioni has included unique items such as a charango, a small stringed guitar, and an Appalachian dulcimer. “These are mine, but I don’t play them anymore,” he said. “I’m ready to pass them on to a new owner, to be played again.”
The store also addresses a significant need in the local community for student instruments. With options for saxophones, clarinets, flutes, violins, and cellos available for rent or purchase, Camaioni aims to collaborate with the public schools, enhancing their existing music programs. The closure of the New Milford Music Center in 2011 left a gap that Camaioni is eager to fill.
Despite the presence of Bearclaw’s Academy of Music, which offers lessons but not retail, Camaioni believes there is room for more music-related businesses in the area. “It’s a different music scene in Connecticut. It’s very local,” he noted, reflecting on the regional music landscape. “Danbury had a big music scene back in the 80s, and people say it’s back, so I want to make that happen here.”
Community Support and Future Aspirations
Camaioni’s commitment to fostering a musical environment has already drawn a positive response from the community. Since its opening, the store has received significant support, including a visit from Mayor Pete Bass, who frequently highlights new businesses in town. “The mayor was great; he was like a little kid,” Camaioni recalled, noting that the mayor took numerous pictures during his visit.
“People are coming in all the time, saying they’re so happy to have a music store again in town,” Camaioni shared. Many musicians have visited to purchase strings or check out the guitars, and he has already made several sales. His enthusiasm is evident on social media, where he has documented interactions with local artists and shared the store’s growth. “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,” he explained.
In addition to running Strings ‘n Things, Camaioni owns Certified Studios, a private space in New Milford for musicians to record albums and rehearse. He hopes to eventually find a larger venue in town that accommodates both his store and a performance space. Camaioni has his eye on the former Cookhouse restaurant property, listed at $1.99 million, envisioning it as a potential music center.
For now, Strings ‘n Things serves as a beacon for musicians in New Milford. As Camaioni continues to establish his presence in the community, he remains focused on his goal of collaborating with local schools and nurturing the next generation of musicians. To connect with the store, interested individuals can find Strings ‘n Things on Facebook or contact them at 860-799-0555.
