Resonator Music recharged

THE Resonator Music Shop in Ballina is under new ownership, and big plans are afoot for the store.

Music production industry stalwart Adam Biggs has taken over the premises and is neck-deep in renovating, installing, and preparing the multi-facility space he is transforming as a community and creative hub.

“It’s been great, and there’s so much to get on top of. It’s all new and fresh, but it’s amazing.

“We’re excited and starting to put the program together – we’re looking at shows, clinics, school programs.

“We’ve had so much great feedback, and people are coming to us with ideas, ready to jump in. We have a songwriting boot camp already running next month.”

Biggs’ vision is to provide rehearsal and recording facilities, a roster of professional teachers and session musicians, instrument hire, upskill emerging talent in music production or live sound and lighting, and a new collaborative way to bring the musical community together.

“I’ve seen enough sides of the business to know it’s supposed to be a community – we’re all here to play, that’s the idea,” he said.

“We’re not doing this because of wealth and fame. We’re attracted to it because something inherent in music drives us to do it.

“I’m building a space with a focus on Australian musicians, Australian builders and engineers, and people who are doing interesting things in the world of music and may not be getting the support at a retail level.”

While focusing on the industry, Biggs also has a keen eye on the talent pipeline.

“It’s funny, I’ve always been enthusiastic and energetic about my work in the production side of things, but man, this has lit a fire under me, just coming into this space and seeing the potential,” Biggs said.

“It’s reinvigorated my interest in the whole thing, and in a way, I’m not going to be the one that really decides what this place is. It’s going to be the community.”

The new Ascot Road storefront is undergoing significant renovations as part of its diversification. Biggs is planning a soft launch event at the end of the month to showcase its new capabilities.

These include a downstairs performance space, a recording studio, nine soundproofed, air-conditioned teaching and rehearsal rooms, and a refined retail offering.

“We’re networking everything through the whole building, so you can basically play and record in every space and be connected throughout,” he said.

“The performance room will have a permanent high-quality PA, lighting, staging, and backline – the works.

“The launch is an open house to share our ideas and new spaces – everyone is welcome,” he said.

For information and launch updates, tune in to facebook.com/resonatormusicshop