Montana
Paul Decker found his passion for music while learning to play the drums as a child and growing up in his dad’s music store, which he eventually purchased from him. The current location was established in 1999 and one of Paul’s favorite aspects is all the old guitars that are on display which is a...
Bill Larson served as a band director for over 35 years in Montana. When he needed the support from a music store to service his bands, he called on Eckroth Music in Bismarck, ND. Bill was so impressed by the help he received that he visited the store and got to know owners, Bill and Mary Ann...
Fred Decker formed the retail store Music Villa in Boseman, Montana, which is now run by his son. Fred's passion for the music business became an inspiration for several members of the music industry including reps and other retailers. His love of people and the products makes for a very...
Sherry Linnerooth took music lessons from Bill Eckroth, who would later open a music store in Mandan, North Dakoda. When she later taught music in Bozeman, Montana, she called on Bill to supply her with accessories and music books. Those orders increased so much that she could no longer work out...
Larry Miletich along with his father and brother began playing music together as a group when they moved to Kalispell, Montana. As they continued to play gigs in and around town, they kept seeing a need for a store that provided lessons and repairs. In 1981, the three decided they would open a...
John Larson worked in piano retail in and around North Dakota before opening his own store. He worked the area and became involved in the music programs and lessons within the community. He also became a well respected member of the National Association of Piano Travelers and would rarely miss the...
Ken Edgington has many friends in the music industry, several of whom suggested he be included in the NAMM Oral History program, but when approached Ken was rather humble about his role in the music business, “are you sure you have the right guy?” Ken worked for the Baldwin Piano Company in Ohio...