AUG. 15 I INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC CENTER, BEAVER'S BAND BOX I LOCAL
MI Retail Closures, Openings in Tucson

Within a week, one Tucson, Ariz.-based music retailer opened a second store while another longtime dealer suddenly closed.

Instrumental Music Center (IMC) opened its second location Aug. 1. Like the company's flagship retail operation, the new 2,100-square-foot store is located in Tucson, Ariz., and features band and orchestra instruments, guitars, basses, ukuleles, drums and percussion, print music, gifts, and a range of accessories. It also offers instrument rentals and repairs.

Leslie Faltin, IMC's co-owner, said she worked with Bank of Tucson to launch the new store.

"The adjustments that we made at the beginning of the recession have allowed us to remain strong and thriving throughout this economic downturn," Faltin said. "The current business climate offered an excellent opportunity to expand our market base into an underserved area of Tucson."

Grand-opening events began on Aug. 4 and included a mini music festival, raffles and giveaways.

"We are thrilled to make our store easier to access to the west, central and north areas of Tucson," Faltin said. "Previously, our customers would have a long drive if they happened to live on the northwest side. This expansion will allow us to offer our services to more musicians and students."

Beaver's Shuts Down
On Aug. 8, Beaver's Band Box suddenly closed. According to an Arizona Daily Star article, the store was fully stocked but not open, and a sign on the door read "Store closed until further notice. — Sorry."

The move came four months after the company shuttered its second location, also in Tucson. Beaver's Band Box has been in operation since 1964.

Calls to the store went to voice mail.