Musician Ryan Camaioni has established a new retail music store, Strings ‘n Things, in New Milford, Connecticut, fulfilling a long-held dream. Camaioni, originally from California, opened the store on August 15, 2023, after relocating to Connecticut in 2014. The store aims to serve as a hub for local musicians by providing a variety of musical instruments and accessories, along with rental options for students.
Located on Kent Road/Route 7, next to an antique store, Strings ‘n Things features a diverse selection of both electric and acoustic guitars from well-known brands such as Squier, Gibson, Epiphone, Fender, and Ibanez. In addition to guitars, the store offers amplifiers, strings, picks, and unique instruments including a charango and a Hawaiian ukulele. Camaioni expressed his vision for the store, stating, “I want to create a community for musicians here in New Milford. The store can become a central hub for people to share stories, music, and instruments.”
Camaioni also introduced an instrument rental program aimed at students involved in New Milford’s public school music programs. This initiative includes saxophones, clarinets, flutes, violins, and cellos, providing affordable options for young musicians. He noted the closure of the New Milford Music Center in 2011 left a gap in the community that he hopes to fill.
The local music scene has seen fluctuations over the years, with some stores closing their doors. Camaioni is determined to change that narrative, believing that New Milford is ripe for a revitalization of its music culture. “It’s a different music scene in Connecticut. It’s very local,” he remarked. “I want to make that happen here. There are so many musicians out there, working and playing, waiting for a new store to open.”
In addition to his retail venture, Camaioni leads the band Gumbo, which plays a mix of ska, reggae rock, and alternative music. The band is scheduled to perform at Stella Blues in New Haven soon. He also runs Certified Studios, a private sound company that allows musicians to record albums and rehearse, further embedding him in the local music landscape.
Camaioni envisions expanding his operations in the future, expressing interest in acquiring a more spacious venue that could support larger events. He mentioned the possibility of the old Cookhouse restaurant location, which is on the market for $1.99 million, as a potential site for a comprehensive music center. “I can imagine what it would be like to have a big music center there,” he said.
Since its grand opening, Strings ‘n Things has garnered overwhelming support from the community. Local Mayor Pete Bass attended the opening and showed enthusiasm for the new business, sharing his experience on social media. Camaioni noted, “The mayor was great; he was like a little kid. He took a lot of pictures and was very interested in everything.”
Feedback from customers has been positive, with many expressing their excitement over the return of a music store in New Milford. Camaioni reported a steady stream of musicians visiting the shop, some in urgent need of supplies before their gigs. “I’ve met so many new people, helped artists connect, facilitated artists getting new guitars and amps,” he shared. His passion for the project is evident as he describes the growth of the store and its impact on the local music community.
Camaioni’s commitment to supporting musicians extends beyond sales. He has created an environment where local artists can gather, share experiences, and continue their musical journeys. “People are coming in all the time, saying they’re so happy to have a music store again in town,” he noted.
For more information about Strings ‘n Things, interested individuals can visit their Facebook page or contact the store directly at 860-799-0555. Camaioni’s vision of creating a vibrant music hub in New Milford is well underway, benefiting both musicians and the community at large.
