By Andria Barrios
Tim Weir, a local musician, passed away not long ago after suffering from brain cancer. But his spirit lives on through the store WeirD Dragon Music and More. Weir once owned the store, and Shannon Smith, along with his wife Gabrielle, recently took over upon his death.
“Weir was all about the music,” said Shannon. “We’re looking to expand on his work in the community.”
That work was teaching the next generation to truly love music. Shannon’s daughter took lessons and later helped run the store while Weir was still living, and he became like a member of the family. After his death, Shannon and his daughter “didn’t want what he had done to go away.”
The grand opening for the newly renovated store took place at the beginning of October. The store specializes in buying, selling and trading instruments and equipment, and also teaches lessons in voice, keyboard, piano, bass and guitar. Several instructors teach music of various levels and types, from lead to background. Music of all genres is taught, especially rock.
“Lots of people can teach you how to play guitar, but not a lot can teach you stage presence. We’ll show you how to look like a rock star,” Shannon said.
The store also sells custom guitars, where customers choose body style, wood type, paint design and more to make it all their own. Every Saturday, the store hosts an Open Jam from 2-4 p.m. where any musician may come any time to participate.
But his ultimate goal is to turn the store into a central hub for local musicians. A place where bands can announce and advertise gigues and look for members, and musicians can find bands to play in. A small recording studio will be added and Shannon plans to turn the company website into a social media exclusively for local artists. He also has a goal of granting one or two music scholarships per year in the future. He aspires to start summer camps for children and a School of Rock as well.
WeirD Dragon Music and More is located at 115 E. Brandon Blvd Suite B. For more information, visit www.weirddragonmusic.com or call 651-1246.
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