Have you ever wanted to learn an instrument? Or, perhaps your mother forced you to take piano, then you battled with her until she let you give up, only now you fully appreciate it? Well, there is a local business that can satisfy that music bug.

Crossroads Music, located in the Amagansett Square, is a one-stop music shop, the only in East Hampton. Whether you want to purchase a guitar, get it restrung, or take a few lessons to tune up your skills, this is the store for you.

In a half hour, one-on-one guitar class, Paul Chapin patiently taught basic cords to a beginner on an electric acoustic guitar. Lessons take place in the basement, decorated with instruments and posters of the likes of Jimmy Hendrix, and past John Hanford's work station where he restores guitars.

Chapin, a serious drummer and the son of legendary jazz drummer Jim Chapin, was fun and lighthearted, packing a lot into one short class; guitar anatomy, frets, reading chords. He ran through a few recognizable songs that use only G, C, and D chords, like Bob Dylan's "Blowing in the Wind." He delighted in the sound of a fine strum as much as the student.

Also taught at Crossroads are piano, drums, violin, and flute. Sophia Saradakis provides vocal lessons. Amps, sheet music, and accessories also on sale and PA and sound systems are for rent.

Owned and run by the Clark family, with dad Michael Clark at the helm, the music store is welcoming to even non-musicians. They've been in business about five years, moving from their North Main Street location in East Hampton to the square in 2010.

Crossroads is also responsible for the Coffeehouse sessions held at Springs Community Presbyterian Church once a month, On the Air radio show, and weekly jam sessions.

Category: Music
Price: 1/2 hour class, $30; 1 hour class, $60
Season: Year-round
Note:

Stay tuned for #96 next week, same time same place.