Music Trade Gazette 2010 06 June by Arthouse Publishing Solutions

www.mtgazette.co.uk June 2010

£4.95

Gazette

STILL RESONATING? How well are resonator guitars selling?

LEGENDARY LANES Taking a stroll along Denmark Street

WATT’S NEW? A SELECTION OF THE LATEST AMPLIFIERS AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET TAKE CENTRE STAGE

Raw materials

Staying secure

How is the MI industry adapting to growing concerns about deforestation?

Guidance for keeping your premises safe and secure in the face of rising retail crime rates

For more information about the JMD:1 Series and other Marshall products contact:

Marshall Amplification plc Denbigh Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK1 1DQ www.marshallamps.com Photo by Alison Krick

CONTENTS

Gazette

JUNE 2010 CONTENTS Roundup The latest news from the industry Taking stock Exciting new products for the MI trade

Changing times 16 David Etheridge takes a stroll down Denmark Street – the Tin Pan Alley of London – to speak with some of the area’s 21st century traders Centre stage 20 With many of the leading names in pro audio unveiling new amplifier products, we put a selection of the best performers under the spotlight Wooden it be nice Michael Northcott investigates the ways in which the MI industry is adapting to growing deforestation concerns

Staying secure 30 There is no escaping the fact that retail premises are attractive to the criminal, writes the National Security Inspectorate’s Julian Stanton Still resonating? 32 How well are resonator guitars selling in the current market? Michael Northcott investigates

The Italian job 36 David Etheridge catches up with Howard Johnson of Suzuki Europe to get the lowdown on the company’s recent Ketron distribution venture In retail we trust 40 Louise Hoffman speaks with Nigel J L Rothband, chief executive of Retail Trust, to find out more about the organisation’s history and work Staying legal 42 Chris Barling, CEO of ecommerce solutions supplier Actinic, provides advice for ensuring your web business is compliant with UK regulations Obituaries A tribute to some well-known individuals who have sadly passed away during the last month

Events 46 Trade shows, recitals and happenings for the sector Voice on the highstreet Steve Huxley of Drumstuff, Eastbourne

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor

Louise Hoffman

Gazette

louise@mtgazette.co.uk Editorial Assistants

Sam Guiry sam@mtgazette.co.uk

James Broomhead james@mtgazette.co.uk

Nick Aston nick@mtgazette.co.uk Production Editor

Matt Bower copy@mtgazette.co.uk Group Advertisement Manager

Kelly Smith kelly@mtgazette.co.uk Senior Sales Executive

Andrew Wilson andrew@mtgazette.co.uk Sales Executive

Adam Bennett adam@mtgazette.co.uk Accounts

Tina Pitcher accounts@mtgazette.co.uk Customer Services

01206 767 797 customers@mulberrypublications.co.uk Contributing writers:

David Etheridge Michael Northcott Design

Arthouse Publishing Solutions contact@arthousepublishing.co.uk

Music Trade Gazette

is published monthly by:

Mulberry Publications Ltd

Editor’s letter

ollowing a wonderfully successful launch, I am pleased to present to you the June issue of Music Trade Gazette! And before I go any further, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the readers who took time to send in their feedback on the magazine. We received some very positive comments and look forward to continuing to improve upon our offering each and every month. While I’m in announcement mode, I would also like to welcome our new readers in the Republic of Ireland, who are now receiving the magazine thanks to a widening of our circulation. I hope you find the publication a useful and entertaining read and would welcome your feedback. Please do contact me if you would like to put yourself forward for our Voice on the Highstreet interview – an offer which is of course open to all of our retailer readers. In the magazine this month we bring you a variety of new products available to stock – from pianos, guitar strings and microphone cables in the Taking Stock section on page 12; to a selection of the latest amplifiers released onto the market in our Centre Stage article on page 20. David Etheridge takes a leisurely stroll down London’s Denmark Street – a road which boasts a lengthy and legendary association with the music industry, and has hence been dubbed ‘the British Tin Pan Alley’ – to meet a few of the retailers and repairers still operating there (page 16). On page 26, Michael Northcott investigates the ways in which the MI sector is adapting to modern-day deforestation concerns, and discovers some of the inventive, creative and sustainable ideas that are enabling the industry to continue production. Howard Johnson of Suzuki Europe gives us the lowdown on the Ketron distribution venture he began at the very beginning of the recession. Turn to page 36 to discover whether his investment was well placed. Meanwhile, on page 32, we turn our attention to the resonator guitar – an instrument with a rich history and a sound that has been adopted by 20s blues musicians and emerging London folk bands alike. Finally, turn to page 30 where the National Security Inspectorate’s Julian Stanton provides advice for protecting your premises in the face of rising retail crime figures; to page 42 for guidance on UK internet business regulations; and to page 40 for my interview with Nigel J L Rothband, to find out more about the organisation’s history and work. I hope you enjoy the magazine and the month ahead.

Mulberry Publications Ltd, Wellington House, Butt Rd, Colchester CO3 3DA Tel: 01206 767 797 Fax: 01206 767 532 www.mtgazette.co.uk The editor and publishers do not guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or accept responsibility for any statement that they express in this publication. The opinion of the contributors may not necessarily be the opinion of the publishers. Articles are considered for publication on the basis that they are the author’s original work. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without the permission of the publishers.

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Louise Hoffman louise@mtgazette.co.uk

ROUNDUP

Live music revenue continues to increase The revenue taken by live music events in the UK rose by four per cent last year to £1.45 billion. Research conducted by PRS for Music showed the sector’s biggest single jump was provided by music festivals, which took an extra £50 million compared to 2008. Festivals provided 19 per cent of the total, with live arena music, predictably, responsible for the largest per cent of the total – 37 per cent – while live music in clubs provided 11 per cent of the total. Primary ticket sales were up by 3.4 per cent, while the secondary market ballooned by 15 per cent over the same period. The rise comes in the face of tough economic conditions, and spending on recorded music remaining stable at £1.35 billion, continuing the trend which appeared in 2008 when live music surpassed its recorded counterpart for the first time in modern era.

Billy Bragg documentary set for Leeds showing After three years in the making, Billy Bragg will present his Breaking Rocks documentary at the Hyde Park Picture House in Leeds on 24 July. The film tells the story of Bragg’s own Jail Guitar Doors scheme, which brings musical instruments into prisons as a means of rehabilitation for the inmates. Filming began in 2007 when Bragg asked documentary maker Alan Miles to film a visit he was making to a Dorset prison to deliver acoustic guitars so that inmates could practice between more formal lessons. As well as the film showing, which includes performance by some of the scheme’s ‘graduates’, as well as supporting artists including Mick Jones of The Clash and Foo Fighters’ Chris Shiflett, both Bragg and Miles will be on hand to answer questions. The evening will also include live performances from two of the scheme’s most successful graduates – Leon Walker and Jonny Leesom. The screening and Q&A session starts at 7.30pm at Hyde Park Picture House on Brudenell Road. Call 0113 275 2045 for more information.

Business failures have peaked but retailers still at risk, says Industry Watch report The latest Industry Watch report by accountant BDO LLP and the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has painted a bleak picture of the economy over the last year, but promises the beginning of a recovery. 2009 saw business failure climb to a level unseen since the early 90s as a frightening one in 74 UK businesses are reported to have failed in the recession, with 3,600 retail stores being forced to close their doors. Don Williams, head of retail at BDO LLP, described the number as “depressingly high” but figures suggest as many as 8,000 extra businesses were saved from closure thanks to the decrease in VAT, falling interest rates and the Government’s Time to Pay scheme. Williams asserted that 2010 will see the number of failures fall once again, with one out of 86 businesses expected to close. However, retailers may face a bigger struggle than other sectors of the economy, potentially faced with rising inflation and mortgage costs coupled with low earnings rises causing insolvencies to decline only slightly.

‘More Music!’ calls Yamaha, as it launches new educational scheme Yamaha has launched ‘More Music!’ – the manufacturer’s new UK educational scheme that ties together its pre-existing programmes under a single name. Key to the new “pioneering artist-in-education” scheme is the use of Yamaha’s international genre-spanning artist roster, which includes Jamie Cullum, Chris Martin and the Philharmonia Orchestra, to play an active role in educational aspects and encourage more people into music. The inclusion of Yamaha’s music school scholarship programme in the scheme will also see some of the country’s most promising musicians involved. ‘More Music!’ already has a number of partnerships with high-profile support schemes and live music venues such as the Federation of Music Services and Cheltenham Jazz Festival, it is also part of a national scheme with the NSPCC and ChildLine, giving free music lessons to anyone with a suggested donation to the charity. ‘More Music!’ hopes to strengthen its ties with ChildLine to raise awareness of the charity’s services.

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AND BRIEFLY

ROUNDUP

Fender signs up for London Music Show

MIA “ready to help” in case of local authority funding cuts

Guitar manufacturer Fender has become the latest of the industry’s big names to sign up for this year’s London Music Show, showcasing its world famous range of electric guitars, as well as amplifiers and acoustic instruments. “We’re delighted to be involved with such an exciting event,” said Helen Varley, marketing manager for Fender GBI. “The London Music Show will give us a chance to meet and interact with our consumers in person, as well as giving them the chance to test out the latest equipment and talk to our experts.” Meanwhile, event director Chris Down added: “We are delighted that Fender are participating in the show. They’re an essential addition to the event, and we’re looking forward to working with them to enhance the consumer experience.” Over the course of the three-day show (8 to 10 October) Fender, in partnership with the consumer music print range of organiser Future, will be giving away 21 guitars – one every hour for the duration of the event. Other firms already confirmed for the event include Fret-King, Vintage, Marshall, Peavey and Strings and Things. For more information please visit www.londonmusicshow.com

Fife and Midlothian councils are already proposing to cut the level of musical instrument tuition in Scottish schools, with general secretary Ronnie Smith criticising the decision saying councils saw them as an “easy target”. Some fear that the rest of the UK could experience similar after the first round of cuts announced last month included £670 million from education and £405 million from local government. The Standards Fund has already allocated £80 million in music funding to English schools for 201011, lending some security to schemes such as Wider Opportunities and Sing Up. Any savings – whether at the expense of these allocated funds, or after 2011 – could have effects for MI retailers and manufacturers. Speaking to Music Trade Gazette Paul McManus, chief executive of the Music Industries Association, said effects would obviously vary from retailer to retailer, with some dealing with educational schemes and local authorities more often than others. However, reassuringly, he said that the MIA was “ready to help” should any member be affected by tuition scalebacks or cuts.

Stentor announces ISO9001 achievement at its factory workshop in China Stentor’s wholly-owned factory workshop in China has achieved ISO9001 certification. Many governments and purchasing authorities worldwide now demand this internationally recognised standard for product and quality assurance management. The Stentor factory underwent a strict assessment in order to obtain its certificate, which involves an ongoing, systematic evaluation of the system of quality management and confirms to customers and suppliers that Stentor’s management systems conform to world standards. The company says that it is committed to quality, consistency and continuous improvement, adding that ISO9001 compliance acts as further demonstration of the service and quality that it provides to its customers, both in the UK and to its network of distributors worldwide. ”Achieving ISO9001 is the result of much hard work by the team and is a welldeserved recognition of Stentor’s commitment to high standards,” said managing director Michael Doughty.

York plays on through JHS prepared for “best” financial problems UK trade show Despite parent company Schreiber & Keilwerth going into administration as a result of the Icelandic banking collapse, brass instrument brand York intends to continue business.York has maintained a presence at trade fairs, even showing a new trombone in Frankfurt, moving ahead with business after administrator Tobias Hoefer recommended the permanent continuation of the company was the best solution to the problem.

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Distributor John Hornby Skewes & Co is promising that this month’s JHS event will be the most successful in its 14 year history. The four day, trade-only, event – 13 to 16 June – held at the company’s Garforth base will see deals on products across the JHS catalogue of more than 40 brands. It will also include a broad range of guest exhibitors, suppliers and artists (including Fret-King guitar designer Trev Wilkinson) as well as an all-day free bar and “legendary” goodie bags for those attending.

2009 sales statistics released to MIA members Market Research company GfK and trade organisation the MIA have made the most up-to-date MI trade sales statistics available free to MIA members. This opportunity gives the industry its first chance to compare three sequential years of data. Anyone interested in the additional data, which goes into details such as brand, model and even colour, can contact GfK which sells the information.

2010 British Piano Fair cancelled The British Piano Fair, which has become a staple of musical instrument trade since it reappeared in 2007, has been cancelled this year. The event, which was due to take place once more at Lords Cricket Ground, has been cancelled due to what organisers are calling “conflicts” between the parties involved. The event is already promising to be back for 2011.

ROUNDUP

Nevada Music announces free music lessons to be held during school holidays After a successful 2009, Nevada Music has announced that the school summer holidays will see an expanded programme of Summer Jam free guitar and drum taster lessons. The sessions will be run from Nevada Music’s store in Portsmouth in partnership with two private music schools, with lessons available through a booking system. Organisers have increased the age limit from 14 to 16, and the lessons, which are aimed at beginners, will now run five days a week – Monday to Friday – where last year they were limited to two days a week. “A huge demand for lessons on our previous programme meant we were turning kids away, as we didn’t have the manpower to offer more dates,” said Nevada’s managing director. “Linking up with two local music schools to provide the lessons means the kids are not only getting a taster session, but the schools get to promote their services in a direct way. It’s a win-win situation.” Under 16s will be able to book their places on the Summer Jam from 26 July.

Economic confidence is returning but concerns remain, says the BRC

AND BRIEFLY

Consumer confidence has climbed to its highest level since November 2007, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC). In research conducted by Nielsen and the BRC, the Confidence Index rose for the fourth consecutive quarter, rising three points from the previous poll, conducted last December, and 15 points higher than 12 months previous, when the Index was at its lowest point in the recession. However, people remain concerned about the economy. The percentage of people who describe the job prospects for the next year as ‘bad’ or ‘not so good’ remains very similar to December’s statistics, and the number of people who cite the economy as their biggest concern for the next six months has risen two per cent. “For now, things are looking slightly better than they did last quarter but confidence is not coming back in leaps and bounds,” said Justin Sargent of Neilsen UK & Ireland, with Stephen Robertson of the BRC adding that the “tentative” recovery needs “nurturing”.

New government vows to cut ‘red tape’ around live music The new government has promised to reduce the amount of ‘red tape’ tangled around live music in an effort to encourage more performances. Any move will be tasked to John Penrose, who takes responsibility for how live music is affected by the Licensing Bill under his new heritage and tourism brief. One strong possibility is that the new administration will attempt to resurrect Lord Clement-Jones’ Live Music Bill. The bill was announced in parliament before the election, but was not given sufficient time before the dissolution of parliament. Another possibility is the continuation of a Department of Culture, Media and Sport consultation that spoke about giving exemptions to the bill to smaller venues. The Musician’s Union has welcomed the announcement, with its general secretary urging action “at the earliest opportunity”.

South African drummer joins Zildjian family

Schimmel regains strength

Music Exchange acquires and expands Herga

Percussion company Zildjian has welcomed drummer Darren Leader to its worldwide family of artists. Leader, who is drummer with award-winning South African band Zebra & Giraffe, described the moment as “a dream”, having always used the manufacturer’s equipment – even doodling the company’s logo in his school books. Zebra & Giraffe beat established bands Green Day and Coldplay to ‘best alternative’ honours at last year’s MTV African Music awards and has an internationally released album due later this year.

The 125-year-old German brand Schimmel Pianos has announced the lifting of Chapter 11 status from the company, leaving it financially stable and family owned once more, with Hans SchimmelVogel. The company revealed the good news, which has been made possible thanks to improvements in efficiency and cost cutting, soon after its 125th anniversary on 1 May. The company has already added several new models to its range, including an entry-level piano.

Music Exchange completed a successful acquisition of music gift distributer Herga on 1 May and has revealed plans to expand the already thriving business. Music Exchange plans to add to Herga’s existing range of gifts for music lovers – ranging from pencil sharpeners to tea pots – and is currently working towards publishing a pictorial catalogue and order form for the business. Music Exchange and Herga hope to bring new retailers into the scheme, helping to add to the growth the company has seen in sales over the last two years. For more information please contact 0161 946 1234 or email gifts@musicx.co.uk

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ROUNDUP

Orange Amplifiers launches new division British-based guitar amplifier manufacturer Orange has established OMEC Personal Computers – a new division of the brightly coloured company. The new division is tasked specifically with the development and advancement of sound technology and personal computers. Off to a flying start, the first device to emerge from the new division is the OPC hybrid guitar amp and PC, which Orange claims encompasses a number of firsts. Most notably for amplification fans it will be the first computer of its kind to include a high-powered speaker as well as allowing users to plug a variety of instruments into the device. Orange CEO Cliff Copper is quick to emphasise its computing ability: “It’s a fully functioning PC; I use one myself all the time,” he told PC Retail. “It has a large high quality guitar speaker in it, which we put in a guitar amp case, The two-year Foundation Degree in rather than a metal tower case. Creative Musicianship is now available to We modelled it on the sound of take on a part-time basis, the Institute of the Orange amplifiers, so people Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP) can plug in and play their guitar, has announced. record it and play it back.” The By allowing students to continue to first models will also include free work alongside their studies, the Institute recording software. hopes the course will attract musicians who, though already working, wish to improve their skills and gain a formal higher education qualification. Students would also be able to access a grant to help fund their studies. The qualification is focused on Guitarists of every experience level from around the world will be able to take lessons developing each individual musician’s from instrument great Arlen Roth, receiving individual grade and comment from their unique ‘creative voice’, challenging them famous teacher. to gain industry standard performance After watching monthly lessons from Roth on the Gibson guitar website, participating skills, and offering them the opportunity students will post a video to YouTube, showing them incorporating the lesson into a of relevant work experience while performance piece. They will then submit a link to the video along with some additional teaching the business and transferable skills information to Gibson.com. musicians need to take full advantage of Roth will watch the video, grading the performance and offering commentary and their creativity. advice to the musician. Participants will receive a printable report card, with the top The course remains available to take student being named ‘student of the month’ and having their video posted on the on a full-time basis, with further details Gibson website as well as receiving a gift from the company. available through the ICMP. Please visit At the end of the year a class valedictorian (top student) will be chosen, receiving a www.icmp.co.uk or call 0207 328 0222 for unique certificate and a brand new Gibson guitar. more information. Lessons will cover every genre and start this month.

ICMP degree now available part-time

AND BRIEFLY

Gibson offers new online guitar lessons

Canine guitarist’s TV appearance lifts sales

Nevada Music to host drum clinic

Dunlop completes training tour

Thank you for the feedback

Sometimes a boost in sales comes from a most unlikely location and such is the case after a guitar-playing dog made an appearance on Britain’s Got Talent in late April. Though the animal, Laika, failed to live up to her lofty billing of being the world’s only guitar-playing dog, the performance has been enough to see a 32 per cent leap in sales of acoustic guitars, according to supermarket Tesco. The shop’s electrical expert described the show as having “sparked huge interest”.

Nevada Music’s Portsmouth store will host a drum clinic from renowned session musician Craig Blundell on 14 July at 6:30pm. Entry to the event will be free and his clinic and workshops should be a “fantastic event for drummers of all ages and levels,” according to a Nevada press release. All visitors will have the chance to get hands-on experience of Roland electronic drum products as well as taking advantage of offers and giveaways on the night.

John Hornby Skewes & Co (JHS), the UK and Eire distributor for Dunlop Manufacturing USA, has completed a tour of in-store training sessions about their range of Dunlop products. Dunlop’s international sales manager, Erjan van der Laan, visited stores around the UK with JHS sales managers. The sessions saw dealers given updates and technical information on the products as well as demonstrations, with several dealerships becoming ‘Dunlop Centres of Excellence’ in recognition of the staff knowledge and store range.

Following the launch of Music Trade Gazette we would like to thank the many readers from throughout the MI trade who have sent in very positive letters and emails about the magazine – we value your feedback. However, it seems we could not please everyone, and received one rather disparaging email from an “Andrei Mechkov” aka “Andy Barrett”. Will the real Andrew please stand up?!

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EMI Music Publishing London with VTC 48 channel console

VTC at EMI “

“Ever since we’ve installed our TL Audio VTC consoles we have had many compliments regarding the tonal warmth of the recordings we make down here. In our opinion retaining this quality is the most important aspect when working with digital recording software systems.”

“Some of the artists we have recorded on the TL Audio and have been happy with the results include: Tinchy Stryder, Madness, The Rumble Strips, Noel Gallagher, Ricky Gervais, Chris Martin, Dizzee Rascal, Lady Gaga, Kele Okerele (Bloc Party), Roisin Murphy, Salaam Remi, VV Brown and Taio Cruz.”

Scott McCormick, EMI Studios - London

IVORY 2 SERIES

EBONY SERIES

CLASSIC SERIES

VALVE MIXERS

DESIGNED & MADE IN THE UK TL Audio Limited • Letchworth • Herts • SG6 1TN • United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1462 492090 • Fax: 44 (0)1462 492097 • Email: info@tlaudio.co.uk

TAKING STOCK

ÄÄ Steve

Clinkscale Music

ÅÅMatt Nolan

British cymbal, gong and metal percussion sculptor, Matt Nolan, has announced a new premium Symphonic Triangle – the completely hand hammered ‘InfiniTri’. The prototype drew much attention at Musikmesse Frankfurt in March and early orders are shipping to dealers in France, Denmark and America, as well as to percussionists from the Paris Symphony, Rome Symphony and Rome Opera. Information: 07796 406 797 or matt@mattnolancustom.com

Made exclusively for Steve Clinkscale Music, the Crucianelli Signature 96 Bass 4 Voice Accordion is a hardwood double cassotto featuring 37 Perloid treble keys, 92 bass keys, 11 treble registers, master register, as well as seven bass registers. The reeds are handmade by the artisans at ‘Voci Armoniche’. A deluxe leather carrying case with wheels is included, along with luxury velvet shoulder straps and a cleaning kit. Information: 01573 225 885/07958 351 712 or info@steveclinkscalemusic.co.uk

ÅÅEdelweiss Piano Co

At 127cm long, the petite 127 ‘apartment’ grand combines a small size with a beautifully practical symmetry in its shape. Available exclusively to the trade through Edelweiss Piano Co, the company says that these factors allow the instrument to fit into places previously deemed too small for a piano. In addition, the piano boasts interesting, chic cabinet designs. With a “sweet, well balanced tone”, the instrument has a responsive and lively playing action to accompany its attractive design. The piano comes in several designs including black, and self-play options are also available. Information: 01223 881 750 or trade@edelweiss-piano.com

ÅÅKam

An audio and lighting manufacturer with well over half a century of experience, Kam has, in recent years, expanded its base into the musical instruments market and has just launched its MI product catalogue. An extensive portfolio of products, the catalogue includes USB Midi controllers, digital products for the home studio, LED lighting for stage performance, passive and active speakers, switch mode amplifiers and its award-winning laser range. Storage needs are met by the popular Kamkase brand, with a vast collection of flight cases with a solution for a wide variety of touring needs. Another arm of the Kam brand is the Kamstands range of stands for guitars, amps, microphones, keyboards, lighting and speakers. The catalogue can be downloaded from the Kam website. Information: 01582 690 600 or www.kam.co.uk

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TAKING STOCK

ÃÃ Infinity Guitar Works

Infinity Guitar Works is a new UK guitar brand combining the talents of Jaden Rose from Jaden Rose Guitars and Rob Chappers of The Monkey Lord and Chapman Guitars. The brand launched last month and Infinity Guitar Works is now offering the combination of UK handmade, precision-engineered guitars. The first production guitar produced by the brand will have a collaborative design theme, led by Rob. The design process involves hundreds of forum members voting on a wide range of aspects. Infinity Guitar Works guitars are all made in the UK, and the brand says that no part of the process is sub-contracted or made in guitar factories abroad. Infinity Guitar Works guitars feature top spec components and include a hard case. Lefthanded versions will be available for most models. Information: rob@infinityguitars.co.uk, jaden@infinityguitars.co.uk or www.infinityguitars.co.uk

ÃÃ Summerfield Musical

Instruments Ltd

Summerfield Musical Instruments Ltd has recently been appointed as the exclusive UK and Eire distributor for the Spider Capo. The unique design of the Spider Capo, which was awarded Namm University Best in Show, allows players to explore unlimited creative possibilities, new tunings, keys, harmonies and textures that the company says are not possible with standard tuning. The Spider Capo clamps each string individually, allowing the player to finger above and below the capo, and with a simple position change, the tuning can be changed while playing. The company adds that the Spider Capo allows the customer to play melodies with open string accompaniment and comes with sample tuning examples. Information: 0191 414 9000 or www.sf-music.co.uk

ÃÃ Selectron UK Ltd

Selectron UK Ltd has been appointed as the distributor for Stay in Tune (SIT) Strings for the UK and Ireland. As the long-standing UK distributor for ESP Guitars, SIT made perfect sense as all ESP guitars are strung with SIT at manufacture. The SIT range includes the original ‘Power Wound’ string that made the company famous, with nickel-plated cover wrap over a tempered Swedish hex core. Also available is ‘Power Steel’ string, with a stainless steel alloy cover wrap over a hard tempered hex core, as well as the ‘Power Groove’ string which uses the same technology as Power Wound but with a pure nickel cover wrap. Information: 01795 419 460 or info@selectron-uk.co.uk

ÆÆAVSL Group Ltd

Chord’s UHF Guitar Bug is a professional wireless system for guitars, with a bug style transmitter and a freestanding receiver. The transmitter is powered by a single AAA battery with swivel-jack. The twin aerial is freestanding with a battery/mains receiver. Two UHF frequencies are available: 864.05MHz and 863.25MHz. Each system is supplied in a moulded carry case and the full range of Chord’s products can be viewed online. Information: 0845 270 2411 or www.chordmusic.co.uk

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ÄÄ Studiospares Ltd

With its classic design, the Studio Mic Boom Stand is a bestseller for Studiospares Ltd. Available now to retailers and other dealers, features include adjustable height, a telescopic boom arm, and non-marring tightening screws. The stand has a rugged metal construction, rather than plastic. Studiospares says that further products will soon be available. Information: 0844 375 5000 or www.studiospares.com

TAKING STOCK

ÃÃ Bassix

The double bass banjo is aimed mainly at bluegrass, folk and traditional jazz players and is played like an acoustic upright. Standard double bass strings are used and the banjo has a double bass style fingerboard (3/4 scale). The double bass banjo is lighter than most acoustic basses and can be packed down for airline use. Bassix says that the instrument produces a higher volume than a standard upright bass, with prominent undertones akin to a mellow vintage double bass. The bass banjo is available from the maker direct, with countrywide stockists being appointed in the near future. Bassix says that applications for dealers and stockists are invited and will be dealt with on a first come first served basis. A demo instrument will usually be available for trial by appointment. Information: 01227 791 640 or www.bassix.net

ÅÅCover Notes

For over 10 years, Cover Notes has insured businesses in the MI sector including retailers, repairers, wholesalers and allied trades. The MIA exclusively endorses the company’s scheme, which is underwritten by household name insurers. Interestfree monthly instalments are offered, with no deposit payable. Cover Note’s standard cover includes demonstration, tuition, exhibition cover, seminars, the repair of instruments, delivery (including pianos), installation, instruments on approval and hire. With competitive transit policy rates, cover is available for both UK and international transit. The company says that it aims to provide the widest cover in the market and members of the MIA qualify for discounts from standard Cover Notes rates. Information: 0121 327 1977 or www.covernotes.co.uk

ÄÄ Rotosound

Rotosound’s best selling R9 and R10 Roto nickel on steel guitar strings are now available in twin set packaging. The company says that the new packs, called Double Deckers, offer greater value for money and an improved profit margin for dealers. With a high quality tone, Rotos are made using nickel on steel and manufactured with strict quality control that Rotosound says ensures consistency, strength and durability. The company adds that the new Double Decker packs R9DD and R10DD are space saving, more environmentally-friendly and easier to merchandise. Information: 01732 450 838 or www.rotosound.com

ÊÊ Numark Alesis Europe Ltd

The TransActive Drummer is an amplifier designed for today’s electronic drummer. A complete, active system, the product contains a powerful and active two-way speaker wedge with two sets of inputs, stereo outputs and a dock for an iPod. The TransActive Drummer is suitable for both solo and band practice, and two TransActive Drummers can be linked with a common quarter inch TRS cable for stereo performance. The amp also has line level quarter inch stereo outputs for connection to a PA system or recording equipment. A front panel provides access to volume, three band EQ, level control for iPod and a quarter inch headphone jack. Information: 01252 896 000 or www.numark.com

ÅÅSommer Cable

The Club Series Tempoflex hightemp microphone cable is rugged in its design, and is ideal for theatre boards, musical backdrops and large live events. The microphone liana has a pair of conductors with 0.34mm², braided with several Kevlar strain relief elements, a jacket with a special TPE SP sheath (Ø 7.3mm) and double shielding. The cable can be used for permanent installations and mobile applications at temperatures from -20°C to +110°C. Information: + 49 708 2491 330 or www.sommercable.com

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TIN PAN ALLEY

CHANGING TIMES

While the legendary Andy’s guitar repairs closed its doors in 2007 and now trades on the net as www.andysguitarnet.com, former personnel at number 27 still specialise in repairs, servicing and restoration: Graham Noden in the basement, and Tim Martens and Mikhail Popov on the top floor, keeping the tradition (if not the name) alive. enmark Street near Soho is for musicians Speaking with the folks in Denmark Street, something of a legend. While nearby Archer you can get a sense of how different companies Street was the first stop for musos seeking are coping in changing times. One thing is gigs from bandleaders and fixers in the 30s to 50s, apparent: different areas of the market are being Denmark Street has had a long association with the affected in different ways, while other areas seem MI business. untouched by the recession. Certainly the repair The Kinks’ Ray Davies immortalised Denmark side of the industry is still healthy, with companies Street in song some 40 years ago. Regent Sound whose reputation is based on word of mouth studios recorded the Kinks, ELP, Hendrix and Stevie recommendation as busy (if not busier) than ever. Wonder in bygone decades, and its premises are Outside the broad mainstream of guitar and band now the basement of bookshop Helter Skelter. oriented shops is Sax.co.uk, London’s largest shop The name still lives on as Fender specialist Regent dealing with all things saxophone-related. Simon Sound at number 4 Denmark Street, but the rest Pickard of Sax.co.uk is upbeat about the current of the street features companies and shops no less state of business: “I couldn’t really tell you how evocative of the biz: Rockers, Rose Morris (three business compares to the guitar shops. These times shops), Vintage and Rare Guitars, the Music Room, are very precarious for some, but we seem to have Bass Cellar, Wunjo’s, Sax.co.uk, Macari’s, Music been doing okay, it’s been very steady. Our premises Ground, Hank’s Acoustics, and the Pro Audio Centre. in Crowborough are our main shop in terms of But it’s not just the retailers that give Denmark stock and size, but since we’ve moved downstairs Street its reputation; hidden away on top floors and here (at 21 Denmark Street), I think that things in basements are some of the most highly regarded have picked up. We seem to be doing okay.” repair and servicing guys in the country. While the What do you find is your customer base – older street offers a good selection of, say, vintage and musos or students? “Oh no, it’s right across the collectable instruments, it also provides the premises board. I would say that there’s always been a steady of the folks who can actually keep that desirable appreciation of the instrument, and also being in the instrument in top condition or restore a classic. West End there are still musicians involved in pit

Denmark Street is the Tin Pan Alley of London, with most of its music shops legendary among gigging musicians. David Etheridge surveys the scene

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TIN PAN ALLEY

Graham Noden Repairs

Macari’s Musical Instruments

Sax.co.uk

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work and theatres here. We have a steady stream of students as well, which I don’t think has really changed recently. Over a longer view, since there have been more jazz courses in colleges, then you see more saxophone students coming through, which is quite a mainstay of the clientele.” Graham Noden, one of the doyens of the guitar repair scene, is equally unaffected by changes in the current market, although he has noticed subtle differences: “We’re doing very well indeed – we’re very lucky, very grateful, very busy and t’was ever thus. The nature of our repair business isn’t changing that much; I suspect that we’re doing less new guitars, but we’ve been here since 1978 one way or another – I’ve been here since 83 – and you end up building up a good client base.” Graham’s reputation is based on word of mouth, which always has benefits, as he explains: “I’ve never knowingly advertised, at least not since 1975 (and that was very brief and rather weird) – it’s the best way of doing it.” One area that has changed is the collectors market, which seems to have had a reality check in some respects. “It’s got more specific,” says Graham, “a 59 Les Paul standard is still a 59 standard, and a mint boxed 59 standard is absolute top dollar, and good luck to the owner as it was rubbish when it was made, which is probably why it’s mint boxed now. Players (as opposed to collectors) can always get great guitars at slightly lesser prices, while collectors get theirs mint and boxed and they tend to hold their value. There’s a little more realism, I think, but if it’s old, it’s worth money. “What do you do in this market? I’m 55 now, and when I started playing, you couldn’t give a Futurama guitar away – now people are paying serious money for them. There’s an element of this market where I just throw my hands in the air and despair! I think that may be a personal thing for those who remember the originals the first time around, be it a car, guitar or whatever; but there’s a huge area of the market that aren’t buying those, and they’re people who’ve got some money and are wondering what to do with it. They’re buying houses because you can’t put it in the bank. Anyone at the top end who’s got 50 grand to buy a 59 dot fret isn’t going to worry about inflation or a recession.” Macari’s was one of the very first music instrument shops in Denmark Street, way back in 1961 when the street itself was populated more by music publishers and writers. Macari senior opened Macari’s after running Vox shop for Tom Jennings (of Vox fame naturally), and Macari’s moved back into Denmark Street in November 2009 as well as running a Charing Cross Road shop.

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TIN PAN ALLEY

“Word of mouth is pretty amazing – people come from the other side of the world and say ‘yes, we know your shop’” Graham Noden Repairs

Anthony Macari, son of the founder, is optimistic about business and the future for the company: “It’s certainly going to plan, put it like that. We were looking for a certain increase in business, and we’re just about on target, so yes, it’s working as we wanted it to.” You don’t find internet sales are affecting you? “Internet-wise, it’s something we’ve never really gone head to head with. We’ve always tried to provide something different. Internet business we see as a necessary evil, and it’s not what makes me want to get out of bed in the morning. I like talking to people, and selling guitars. You see somebody come into the shop with a piece of paper and all the research they’ve done online, and they’ve come up with a particular guitar that they think will suit them. Then you talk to them for five minutes, and you say ‘well actually, you can do a lot better with something else’, which is what I’ve always done. I see myself as a salesman rather than a demonstrator and provider of things.” Once again, word of mouth reputation plays its part, particularly when other companies reap

the whirlwind through their actions, as Anthony explains: “Word of mouth is pretty amazing – people come from the other side of the world and say ‘yes, we know your shop’, and that’s pretty nice. “I think the closure of some companies recently in the area has affected our business in a really positive way. I’d like to think that we were providing the kind of service that the others weren’t. I hate to boast and say that’s what happened, but we were next door to Turnkey who were in the old Selmer shop in Charing Cross Road, and they were more our competition than Sound Control in the Virgin shop were. So our next door neighbour going did leave a gap in the road, which I was worried about, but the vacancies have been filled in Charing Cross Road, and as a result our shop in Charing Cross Road supplies more trade to Denmark Street as well, as we were sending people along there. In the past we wouldn’t be, because it was where all our competition was.” So you’re looking forward to the future with optimism? “We’re quietly optimistic, yes.”

Denmark Street No 4, Regent Sound: 0207 379 6111 No 5, Rockers: 0207 240 2610 No 6, Vintage and Rare Guitars: 0207 240 7500 or www.vintageandrareguitars.com Nos 8, 10 & 11, Rose Morris: 0207 836 0991 or www.rosemorris.com No 20, Wunjo’s: 0207 379 0737 or www.wunjoguitars.com No 21, Sax.co.uk: 0207 836 7172 No 22, Bass Cellar: 0207 240 3483 or www.myspace.com/thebasscellar No 23, Pro Audio Centre: 0207 497 1178 or www.londonproaudiocentre.com No 24, Hank’s Acoustic Guitars: 0207 379 1139 or www.hanksguitarshop.com No 25, Macari’s: www.macaris.co.uk Angel Music (1st floor above Macari’s): 0207 836 8008 or www.angelmusicguitars.com No 27, Music Ground: www.musicground.com Graham Noden repairs (basement): 0207 813 1142 Tim Marten repairs (top floor): 07780 771 673/07983 499 299 or www.timmartenrepairs.co.uk

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Orange

WATT’S NEW? Whether it’s tube, vintage or digital, the guitarist needs the right amp for the right style of play. With many of the leading names in pro audio unveiling new products, we put a selection of the best performers under the spotlight

transformers, creating a monster power stage. Put the pedal to the metal and the 427 surges into action with thundering tones ranging from clean to fat to downright filthy, courtesy of an ECC83fueled preamp loaded with passive tone circuits and a whole lot of attitude. hen asked what makes a great the specification and range available. The The 427 small block head features guitar sound, producer Eddie high and low gain inputs; front panelnew Rockerverb II series includes an Kramer – the man behind Led enhanced valve F/X loop; improved reverb mounted effects send and return; rotary Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones – said: bass; middle and treble controls with mid tone; new middle control on the clean “Great tone is whatever supports the song channel; and re-designed combos with shift; bass shift and bright switching; mute at the time… gut instinct and experience switch; rotary gain and master volume new front mounted controls. tells you when you have the right tone All models are built using tried and tested controls; and balanced DI output with for your tune.” He does admit there are pre/post switching. top quality components and deliver the established sounds which people recognise legendary Orange sound. From chiming For more than 15 years, the Peavey as being great, including the Fender Twin, tube driven reverbs to sparkling tube driven 6505 series amplifiers have produced raw Vox AC30 and Orange Tiny Terror, but it is effects loops and ultra high gain distortions, tone and relentless power for scores of very much down to “what the guitarist is hardcore rock bands. From Bullet For My these are regarded as some of the most doing in his world at that moment in time.” versatile guitar amps on the market, Valentine to Machine Head, Peavey has The wide variety of modern day artists defined the sounds of extreme metal delivering some of the purest guitar tones choosing Orange amps, including Travis’s in the business. guitarists. For the first time the company Andy Dunlop and Alex Turner of the is making the highly respected 6505 series As ever, Ashdown amplification has Arctic Monkeys, speaks volumes about amplifier available in a 60-watt combo with been at the heart of some of the most the brand. And, in a nice instance of the memorable albums and tours over the past two channels and an extensive feature set. company coming full circle, one of the The new 6505 Plus 112 combo 10 years, including U2’s How to Dismantle guitarists who helped to launch Orange harnesses the full gain and tone of the an Atomic Bomb, the launch of which was back in 1968 – Fleetwood Mac’s Jeremy heralded by a surprise outdoor gig in New Peavey 6505 series, but in a smaller Spencer – still calls the company to compact package. The five select 12AX7 York City. U2 bassist and longstanding enthuse about his much-cherished AD30. preamp tubes and a pair of 6L6GC powerAshdown enthusiast Adam Clayton was Orange’s Rockerverb series has long amp tubes provide the tonal foundation, accompanied by his monster rig. been regarded by many musicians as a while the patented circuitry, such as Peavey’s Ashdown has recently unveiled a new masterpiece of guitar amplification. The resonance control, tweak the tone. Both bass tube amp range in the shape of company launched the new Rockerverb II the 427 small block head. Lurking under the lead and rhythm channels feature earlier this year, which builds on the classic the hood of this all-tube muscle-amp is independent three-band EQ, pre/post proven Rockerverb formula and improves an octet of KT88s and three over-fed gain controls and presence and resonance

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Ashdown

Fender

Marshall

Peavey

adjustment. The rhythm channel also includes a footswitchable crunch boost. The 6505 Plus 112 combo also features the Peavey MSDI microphone-simulated direct interface, which eliminates the need for miking by allowing users to route the amp’s signal directly to a recording device or mixing console. Additional features include three-spring reverb, effects loop and external speaker outputs, plus a 12 inch Sheffield loudspeaker in a sealedback cabinet that offers maximum resonance and sound projection. New from Fender, and set to generate as much interest as the legendary guitars is the G-DEC 3, the latest in the ongoing evolution of the G-DEC amp series. The G-DEC 3 is a guitar amp and media centre all rolled into one groundbreaking package. Available in 30-watt and 15-watt versions it is a practice amp and jamming partner giving access to 100 presets from the world’s top musicians at the touch of a keypad. The wealth of performance loops have been specially created for Fender by top artists and session players including Eric Johnson, Def Leppard’s Phil Collen, Fall Out Boy’s Joe Trohman and Nils Lofgren to name just a few. The G-DEC 3 allows the user to create an arsenal of guitar tones suited to every playing style and can be customised to the user’s own musical tastes, whether all-metal, all-rock, all-blues or all-country.

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Both amps can also be connected to a computer by USB to engage the exclusive Fender FUSE software interface. The amp’s performance parameters can be customised; backing tracks can be downloaded and uploaded; any presets can be edited and stored; and files can be swapped with other members of the worldwide Fender FUSE community. Marshall has recently introduced the revolutionary JMD:1 Series. The concept is simple: take the equipment, technology and tones of professional guitar rigs and fuse them together into a single allencompassing amplifier series, adaptable to any style and situation. This means there’s less gear to transport, reduced set-up and take down time and an enhanced and uncompromised performance. The JMD:1 is a total standalone solution to guitarists’ requirements, from live performance and band rehearsal to bedroom practice. The company says this extremely powerful package is a real cutting edge Marshall amp for those not bound by tradition and ready to embrace a new era of guitar amplification. JHS (John Hornby Skewes) has become a leader in the worldwide distribution of musical merchandise, instrument amplification and pro-audio equipment. Its Trev Wilkinson-designed Italia amp range offers a breath of fresh air in an industry awash with ‘black boxes’, standing out with its red and cream colour scheme. With a definite reflection of the modern

retro flair and vibe, the range takes its inspiration from some of the more colourful amplifier liveries of the 1950s and 60s. The amps also feature grey check grille cloth and chrome plated corner protectors, while ‘chicken head’ rotary controls add to the vintage look. Compact and easily carried, thanks to the large cream coloured holding handle, these amps are available in 10, 15 and 25 watt versions. They are all twin channel units with switchable clean and overdrive settings, and the 25 watt unit has the added bonus of a sweet-sounding short pan spring reverb. With a past and present artists’ roster that clearly resembles a sizeable extract from the rock’n’roll ‘who’s who’, Hiwatt is careful about which products carry its name on the shelves. You might think, therefore, that a solid state 50 watt combo retailing at an exceptionally low price could make them a little nervous. Not a bit, the company says. Like its big brothers, the Hiwatt Maxwatt G50CMR combo is robustly but carefully put together, yet despite the price tag and lack of tubes, still provides a rich tone, two channels and versatile sound controls on both the front and rear panels. Dutch bassist Jeroen Paul Thesseling is now officially playing and endorsing the Hellborg Amp System from Warwick. Thesseling, known for his six-string fretless work in the death metal genre, took his Hellborg amp on tour, saying

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CENTRE STAGE

JHS

Warwick

Hiwatt Laney

modeling technology combined with the VOX Valve Reactor power amp circuit that “he’d never received so many emails uses a 12AX7 vacuum tube. The VT amps regarding the gear.” are proving to be one of the best-selling The multiple award-winning Hellborg on to form one of the biggest bands of all amp ranges around, winning a number of bass amp and cabinet range has been time – Led Zeppelin. awards and accolades. The VT series is available in four models – developed in close collaboration with New for Laney is the 2010 Linebacker 15, 30, 50, and 100 watt – ranging from an Swedish bass legend Jonas Hellborg. digital amp range – a modern day entry-level model to units that can stand up Contrary to other signature ranges approach to simple, straight-ahead, the artist himself was in charge of the flexible guitar tone for a player who wants to professional use on stage or in the studio. The TransActive Drummer from conception and construction of this range everything to enhance their playing and Numark is an amplifier designed – from the selection of the parts down to nothing to get in their way. for today’s electronic drummer. This the design of the circuitry. The goal was to The Linebacker range offers the player complete, active system contains a condense Jonas Hellborg’s comprehensive two channels, each channel featuring powerful, active two-way speaker wedge musical and technical knowledge into a bass 11 amp options consisting of five regular with two sets of inputs, stereo outputs, amplification system that realises a perfect modes, five hot modes and one insane and a dock for iPod. Because it’s a fullmatch between power and transparency. mode to give the player plenty of amp range amplifier, the TransActive Drummer Contrary to usual amp construction the choices. Both channels have the same can also be used with other instruments components of the Hellborg preamp were amp complement, which means you get taken from high-end studio technology. The the option of setting both channels to the such as keyboards. Among its specs, the amplifier boasts headroom of the power amps was built same amp model while varying the volume a large, 10 inch woofer that plays down to cope with a constant load. The cabinets, levels between channels. below most kick drums, and a one inch which house Celestion speakers custom Every amp option comes with its own tweeter that makes cymbal sounds sparkle. made for the Hellborg range, transmit optimised EQ settings, which can be The amplifier provides 50 watt RMS the bass sound with power and brilliance customised for each channel using the allowing plenty of power; has pro-grade in any context, be it studio, live on a club contour and presence EQ controls. The handles recessed into the left and right stage or on a huge stadium stage. Linebackers feature two sets of studio sides for easy transportation; and has Laney Amplification has made its quality effects – one offering chorus, a switchable power supply so it works mark as both a supplier and distributor flanger, phaser and tremolo and the anywhere in the world. of high quality pro audio. The company’s second offering delay and reverb. Lamba Plc is the company behind founder, Lyndon Laney, is no stranger to Korg, formerly Keio Electronic, has popular mobile DJ gear brand Kam. Its the music industry, gigging with a local a 40-year history producing a huge range of products includes wireless mics, band whose line-up included a then range of electronic instruments including speakers, lasers and LED lighting, which are unknown Robert Plant on vocals and John synthesisers, electronic keyboards and all designed and manufactured at Lamba’s Bonham on drums. While Laney went digital recording stations. The VT Series Dunstable premises. Kam has had a busy on to “give up bass and get a proper job of combo amps are the latest in the Vox year, which kicked off with the Space New making amplifiers,” Plant and Bonham went Valvetronix series, featuring sophisticated

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Korg Numark

Lamba

Year’s Day Party in Sydney, featuring sets from DJs Derrick Carter and D Ramirez. Kam then went on to sponsor the MAP Dance Records party and the Mexico party at the Coco Maya Beach Club. The hectic year continues, and Kam has introduced its brand new range of 1U rack mount digital power amplifiers. There are four models in this high quality series: the KXD3200, the KXD4400, the KXD6000 and the KXD7200. Each model in this pro series features: stereo, mono and bridge mode operation, peak level LEDs, balanced XLR outputs plus speakeron outputs, balanced XLR inputs, advanced switch-mode power

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supply, soft start, clip limiter, power limiter and thermal cut, power limiter, upgraded low noise cooling fan with magnetic suspension technology, frequency response of 5-36KHz to 1dB, and low touring weights of 5.6 kilograms and six kilograms. Clearly the scope and range of amplifiers on today’s market means guitar players can develop their own distinctive style and sound. Perhaps the last word should be left to the legendary Eddie Kramer who says that musicians “are bound to go through different amps and guitars until they finally land on the set-up they feel comfortable with, but at least the journey will be worth it.”

Orange: 0208 905 2828 Ashdown: 01245 441 155 Peavey: 01536 461 234 Fender: 01342 331 700 Marshall: 01908 375 411 JHS: 0113 286 5381 Hiwatt: 01302 330 429 Warwick: +49 374 22 555 3000 Laney: www.laney.co.uk Korg: 01908 857 100 Numark: 01252 896 000 Lamba: 01582 690 600

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MATERIALS

WOODEN

IT BE NICEâ&#x20AC;Ś

With many tree species now struggling to survive and global deforestation concerns mounting, Michael Northcott investigates the ways in which the MI industry is adapting to these changing times

raditional hardwoods and tone woods used for making musical instruments are no exception in the debate surrounding deforestation and harvesting of endangered tree species. Although oak and mahogany for example are not endangered, they are not necessarily the ready supply of raw materials for instrument manufacture that we need. Reconciling the use of sustainable wood sources with the need for good

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MATERIALS

Paulownia Tree tonal qualities is fast becoming a significant dilemma for instrument manufacturers. With millions of instruments sold each year in North America and Europe, and indeed in massive numbers in the Far East, the pressure on forests to produce enough wood is relentless. The good tone woods such as mahogany, spruce and cherrywood are obviously much rarer than pine for example, and yet they are certainly preferable for instrument manufacture. Finding a solution for this problem has found its feet with Mariner Guitars, which has begun utilising a type of wood called Paulownia. This wood is native to China, and has seen industrial use in a number of fields as a replacement for mahogany. Paulownia is a hardwood and the tree is significantly faster growing than mahogany, to the extent that it is listed in the US as an invasive species, where it was introduced as an ornamental addition to gardens. Mariner’s reason for using the wood is because it offers the same qualities as mahogany in strength and applicability in constructing guitars, but also has a low carbon footprint as a raw material for production actually within China. “Mariner guitars are designed in Great Britain and have been brought to life by our master luthier, who has been making fine guitars for 48 years in Korea. Handcrafted by a dedicated group of artisans in our Sino-Korean factory, our instruments reflect a combined expertise spanning many years,” and given the proximity to China, where Paulownia is abundant, the raw material is economically viable. Often, other woods must be shipped over to factories based in countries many thousands of miles away from the native area of the forestry. Additionally, Paulownia is one third of the weight of mahogany, making guitars lighter and more comfortable for the musician. This is not, however, the only solution. Fylde Guitars has produced guitars using reclaimed wood. A recent model was constructed using wood from

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disused whiskey barrels, giving the guitar a quirky and unique staining and almost entirely avoiding the use of newly harvested wood. One of the problems concerning Paulownia forests is the ‘exclusive reforestation’ effect. Creating large forests consisting almost entirely of one species of tree can result in a ‘farm’ instead of a ‘forest’. The biodiversity achieved by having a broad spectrum of species in a forest is the only truly effective substitute for a real and unharnessed forest. Therefore, using reclaimed wood not only gives a nod of protection to the environment and our vulnerable forests, but also encourages handmade manufacture and a greater level of uniqueness to the instruments themselves. We spoke with Roger Bucknall of Fylde Guitars, who explained the company’s philosophy concerning the reclamation of wood.

The series of guitars you’ve made from whiskey vats – what was the motivation for using reclaimed materials? I just looked around for different unusual sources. I’ve always been a fan of single malt whiskeys. One of the lads here made the suggestion and then it all fell into place. The guitars wouldn’t suit everybody. Using the timber is a fun idea. It does have some resonance in other directions – they’ve all been soaked in one fluid or another for many years. The casks have had alcohol in them for five years, and scotch whiskey for eight years! That is the way that Stradivarius allegedly cured his timber in the 17th century. How do the guitars sound compared with expensive exotic woods? There is no such wood as a tone wood. Any wood can be used. Some woods may be ‘unacceptable’, and the market has developed around the timbers available to manufacturers at the time of production. Lutes have been made from all the timbers you can imagine, and even ivory and copper.

Fylde Guitars “Talisker”

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MATERIALS

“The music industry can certainly survive without the more exotic woods. We don’t have to use rosewood – we can use maple, sycamore, and walnut”

How much threat is the instrument industry under because of exotic woods being endangered – for example rosewood, which is CITES listed? Indian rosewood is still abundant, and is not on the CITES list. For small manufacturers it’s not a problem – one tree can make hundreds of guitars. Gibson, Martin, and Taylor find it more difficult, but so far they’re just careful where they buy it from. Mahogany is unique in its ability to make guitar necks. It’s strong, stable, and good for hand tools. Nothing else is quite that good. Can the music industry cope without the exotic woods and still produce great guitars? The music industry can certainly survive without the more exotic woods. We don’t have to use rosewood – we can use maple, sycamore, and walnut. Lots of these ones are harvested. There’s always going to be some source of hardwoods. If not then the whole world is in trouble. Such is the clamour for rosewood, that even large-scale instrument manufacturers have been the subject of investigations about the illegal sourcing of the material. The issue of the environment is taken seriously by the large producers however, as the CEO of Gibson

Guitars is also a member of the board at the Rainforest Alliance, a mark of the weight of the issue in the high echelons of the industry. Given that one of rosewood’s most important applications is the production of musical instruments, it is a mark of the times that by executive order, Madagascar’s president legalised the export of rosewood in an attempt to bolster their ailing economy after a coup. According to the Nashville Post, the decision was met with uproar by environmentalists, perhaps proving that with the musical instrument industry’s reliance on this wood for the more expensive instruments, the issue is global and increasingly important. With the worldwide population increasing, with the industrialisation of eastern giants India and China, and with the inevitably growing market that is emerging in the musical instrument industry, it is more important than ever that manufacturers take steps to ensure that their business does not rely on woods that may soon be extinct, or illegal to trade. Simultaneously, and perhaps more importantly, there is an ethical responsibility to ensure that the instrument industry does not assist the declining population of the trees from which the more exotic woods come. As we have seen with Fylde Guitars, it is possible to make a beautiful, high-end instrument using reclaimed materials, and thus have zero impact on struggling tree populations.

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BUSINESS

STAYING SECURE

There is no escaping the fact that retail premises are attractive to the criminal, writes the National Security Inspectorate’s (NSI) marketing manager, Julian Stanton survey recently conducted by the British Retail Consortium (BRC), revealed that over 90 per cent of retailers believe retail crime has increased over the last 12 months – with 90 per cent blaming the recession. According to the BRC, the total cost of retail crime (including the cost of implemented security measures) has almost reached a whopping £2 billion a year. Professor Joshua Bamfield, a director at the independent Centre for Retail Research, believes that one of the reasons for this growth is the fact that security budgets have been cut by many retailers: “Cuts in loss prevention spending at a time when potential crime is rising may well be extremely short-sighted.” However, the challenging economic climate coupled with an obvious increase in retail crime should be used as a good opportunity to evaluate a retail operation, according to Professor Bamfield: “It might be natural to be pessimistic about retailers’ abilities to strengthen their operations against shrinkage. But in a way, the bad news is an opportunity for retailers to re-examine their policies and analyse their use of shrink management technology, developing a more comprehensive integrated and forward-thinking approach to loss prevention.” Employing a suitable deterrent is crucial for retailers, and probably more favourable than apprehension, says Professor Bamfield: “Shoppers or employees can be tempted to steal if they think it is relatively easy to do so, and the chances of

detection are low.” By increasing the chance of detection and ultimately arrest, retailers can protect their profitability. Unfortunately, a knee-jerk reaction to the growing problem of retail crime could lead to retailers choosing costly and inappropriate measures in an attempt to protect their business. However it is crucial that retailers choose the right security solution for their shop, as well as adhering to the requirements of an insurance company. Your premises are likely to be protected by an intruder alarm with a personal attack option, and CCTV may be in operation internally and externally. It is possible that you may have received advice from your local crime reduction police officer, a security consultant or even your insurance company. However, identifying your needs is only step one of the solution and it is important to ensure that your system meets industry standards. So how do you know if an intruder alarm or CCTV system is fit for purpose? If it is a monitored intruder alarm will you choose one that is eligible for police response? Will the alarm activate when you want it to or will it regularly become a source of false alarms? The police will stop responding to monitored alarms with persistent false activations (other than 999 calls), and you or your staff will get fed up with those middle-of-the-night calls to sort the problem out – which could put them and your business at risk. Electronic security systems should include an intruder alarm system (normally a requirement

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BUSINESS

for insurance cover), personal attack alarms and probably CCTV both internally and externally. Fit-for-purpose is the critical measure for choosing electronic security solutions. A good installer will carry out a full risk assessment prior to installation, in line with industry standards, confirming your exact requirements. They will be able to recommend the grade of system, design and installation to give the appropriate level of protection against the identified risks.

able to ensure that the set-up of the surveillance cameras is compliant with this. It is important that CCTV is installed correctly, such as allowing adequate light for the cameras to record images, ensuring that vulnerable areas are covered, and that images are of high quality so that they are not rendered useless.

Manned security Of course few MI retailers will require manned security, but this may be an option for larger stores Intruder alarms experiencing frequent attacks. In this case, there are Your insurance company will also have an interest a number of areas to consider when choosing a in a high quality, fit-for-purpose alarm, and will supplier to provide your manned security, especially normally specify the type of system required. to adhere to the relevant British standards and Savings from a cheaper alarm solution could be industry specific codes of practice. more than offset by higher insurance premiums – if Security officers in England, Wales and Scotland you can get insurance at all – and of course the must be licensed by the Security Industry Authority costs resulting from an intrusion or robbery. And (SIA). Licensing came into force in Northern Ireland should you not fully comply with your insurer’s in December 2009. There are some exclusions from requirements, this could result in a reduced licensing, such as for in-house employees, that are insurance payout following an incident. laid out within the Private Security Industry Act Another option, especially for retail premises with 2001, which should be referred to for full details of high value goods, is a monitored intruder alarm, when a licence is not required. probably with a hold-up alarm option to achieve It is important to know the background of prioritised police response, which is installed by the company that you are looking to employ, for an appropriately approved installer, such as those example you may ask to see the details of the approved by the NSI. If you have a hold-up alarm, company’s structure and ownership, check that it be warned that police only count activations is adequately insured and ensure that there is a resulting from the threat of violence against staff. satisfactory written contract that has been agreed Alarms that operate sounders are normally and signed by you. only acceptable in the lowest risk environment, as In order to ensure that a company protects your they will not achieve police attendance other than property with fully security vetted, professional and through a 999 call from a member of the public. trustworthy guards that hold an appropriate licence, you may wish to check that the company conducts CCTV a minimum of five years of retrospective vetting of CCTV is a growing security solution and is their staff, accounting for any gaps in employment, particularly beneficial to retailers. It can deter and that the screening process has been adequately crime as well as provide evidence, which may help documented and recorded. in the apprehension and prosecution of criminals. The training process for security staff is also an However, to achieve this it is essential to ensure important consideration. For example, do they have that the system meets the appropriate standards. a qualified trainer and are detailed training records For example, the system must cover the areas kept? Do the security officers hold a recognised necessary and provide evidential picture quality. The security qualification? It is also worth checking that recording and storing of data must also comply with the company is certified to ISO 9001, and that it is the appropriate standards to be usable as evidence. inspected by a body accredited by UKAS. Before a system is installed, a good installer will conduct a risk assessment in line with agreed Third party certification industry standards to properly identify your If you want to take the hassle out of selecting an exact requirements. They will also know which electronic security, CCTV or manned guarding products are reliable when sourcing your security supplier, look for a company that has been certified equipment, not just opting for the cheapest by a third party certification body, such as the NSI. hardware. Failure to do all of this may result in NSI offers an extensive range of inspection schemes under or over specification. across virtually all areas of security provision that Owners of CCTV systems must also comply with incorporate the requirements of the relevant British the Data Protection Act and a good installer will be standards and industry codes of practice.

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To find out more about NSI, visit www.nsi.org.uk or call 0845 006 3003. For further information about the Centre for Retail Research visit www.retailresearch.org

RESONATOR GUITARS

STILL RESONATING?

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RESONATOR GUITARS

Michael Northcott

examines the history, development and continued appeal of the resonator guitar

lso known as the ‘resophonic guitar’, the resonator is a completely different idea in the amplifying of a guitar’s sound. Based on a spun-metal cone, or even several cones, the physics of it is similar to how an actual hi-fi speaker works. Originally used in dance bands, the idea of the resonator was to be louder than an acoustic guitar so that its sound wasn’t overwhelmed by horns and timpanis. They remained popular long after the introduction of electric amplifying and electric guitars, mainly in bluegrass and blues. The first company to produce them in large numbers was the National String Instrument Corporation, which was founded by John Dopyera, a Slovak inventor and entrepreneur, and George Beauchamp, a steel guitar player and instrument inventor. A large number of cones and different combinations of types of metal were used by the pair to try to find the best possible sound. Dopyera eventually left National, and along with his brothers started his own company known as Dobro, which was a portmanteau of Dopyera Brothers. After an interruption of production by the second world war, a few name changes, and a few ownership changes, the Gibson Guitar Corporation acquired what we now know as the Dobro brand, in 1993. Their Dobro and Epiphone brands all have a single resonator, unlike the earliest of designs. Commonly, the resonator is played as a lap steel guitar, and is often used with a drone or open tuning, as it is difficult to play complex chords on a lap guitar. In fact, the square necked version (which is extremely common) is limited to this position. The resonator has been consistently popular in bluegrass, country, and blues music, throughout the decades. In the 20s and 30s, the great Bo Carter

Did you know... Bukka White, the 30s Delta bluesman, was one of the finest exponents of the resonator. His National guitar found its way into the hands of Eric Bibb, contemporary bluesman, who has just dedicated his latest album Booker’s Guitar to White, where the opening track is recorded using the very same instrument. Interestingly, Bukka’s actual name was ‘Booker’, which was the spelling he preferred, and Bibb called the album Booker’s Guitar, probably as a mark of respect. blues musician from the band Mississippi Sheiks famously used a resonator to overcome the shouting and rowdiness in large crowded venues. We spoke to local retailers to get their opinion on the resonator as a product for stocking. Our interviewee at Tone Zone Music (based in Cirencester) told us that most of the cheaper lines imported from the Far East are definitively poor quality instruments. Unfortunately, he said, it is “only really gigging musicians that spend the bigger money,” because better-made instruments in this specialist field are “too expensive for the hobbyist.” We asked him which brand he would recommend for other retailers to stock: Busker makes good resonators but most of the time Tone Zone will show a customer what they can order in if the customer is interested in buying one. For this retailer, only the expensive models are well made, high quality instruments, and because of their lesser popularity it is not always advisable to stock up. On the flipside of views within the trade, Music Trade Gazette also spoke with Michael Messer, who, alongside being a blues artist in his own right, producing many studio albums, recently began manufacturing resonators under two brand names: Michael Messer BLUES and Michael Messer LIGHTNING. The company began in 2008, and with news travelling fast in the music industry, his first shipment was completely sold out before it even arrived in the UK. Michael told us that generally speaking “it is a problem how badly made most resonators are.” Reinforcing the idea that cheap imports from the Far East have pervaded the markeo profoundly, Michael said that the fault with these imports is the

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RESONATOR GUITARS attention paid to a “decent finish” at the expense of quality. Cheap models have “incredibly close attention” paid to getting a sparkly, quality-looking finish to an instrument that is otherwise very poorly made. Michael also said that “high-end resonators are often unaffordable,” with the buying public for resonators comprising mainly men aged between 40 and 60. Asked if there has been a growth in sales within the last 15 years, Michael said, “undoubtedly”. Pre-1989, there were virtually no companies manufacturing resonators throughout the world, meaning that only antiques were available to buy, at inevitably high prices. Under the name National, a company started producing high-end ones from 1989 and there was subsequent huge growth in their popularity throughout the 90s, with many manufacturers jumping on the bandwagon. Michael asserted that there has been a longstanding misconception about resonators – namely, that the instruments are specifically for folk and blues music. But in actual fact they are simply much louder guitars capable of playing any music. Michael’s company started in 2008, in the midst of the recession, and as yet he has been unable to identify a pattern of sales. Owing to the specialist area of the music trade which resonators occupy, the smaller UK-based manufacturers are offering much greater value for money, he said. For the retailer, the trick with choosing whether or not to stock this specialist instrument is to “be selective!” Making sure that repair staff know enough about resonators to handle repairs properly; choosing a manufacturer that produces a quality instrument and leaves a respectable profit margin; and making sure customers know that the resonator need not be a specialist instrument, but is simply a louder all-purpose guitar – all of these things are especially important to the first-time stockist. Michael asserted unequivocally, however, that the smaller manufacturers deliver a much better product, and it is paramount to prevent the cheap Far-Eastern imports from damaging the reputation of what is a fantastic instrument. If your customer base for resonators is mainly middle aged male hobbyists playing blues, avoid cheap imports and use the smaller manufacturers, who can provide much higher quality at still competitive prices. The resurgence of the resonator over the past two decades has been bolstered more recently by the arrival of new folk bands on the chart music scene. Mumford & Sons, Noah and the Whale, and other emerging bands on the London folk scene have ignited some popularity of the genre itself among a younger demographic as well. Perhaps, in the post-recession climate, a worthy investment would be quality resonators from decent, wellconstructed UK brands?

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ARRANGER KEYBOARDS

Contact: Jawbone Press 0207 720 3581 www.jawbonepress.com www.backbeat.com

THE ITALIAN JOB Taking on a new brand at the beginning of a recession may seem like a foolhardy thing to do, but it has actually been a very successful venture for Howard Johnson of Suzuki Europe, as David Etheridge discovers

36â&#x20AC;&#x2030;

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ARRANGER KEYBOARDS

hen former Ketron distributor BCK closed its doors in 2008, it seemed that the Italian range of arranger keyboards might be lost to the UK. So, as an enthusiastic follower of the marque, I mentioned the range to Howard Johnson at Suzuki and managed to convince him to take over the UK distribution. Much to his surprise and delight, the acquisition has been rather successful. Howard explains: “It was a difficult decision initially taking over Ketron. The problem was that we had just leaped into an economic recession and the exchange rates had come crashing down. We’d be potentially purchasing stock and making little profit. The other problem was making a relatively niche market range more viable and giving it more exposure. “Of course, we’ve had experience of dealing with high-tech products in the past – we were the first people to introduce Kurzweil to the UK. I realised that Ketron would be equally as demanding and it seemed logical to aim these products at the more specialist retailers – people who would look after their customers and use their expertise accordingly. “We wanted to make sure that we did the best for Ketron, so dealing with specialist retailers was a good move; aiming for less dealers, each with a wider territory. It’s important for outlets to get behind a product 100 per cent in order to achieve success. “The launch of the magnificent Ketron Audya proved that it was the right decision to take on Ketron. It emerged from the production line after three and a half years in the making. This was – and is – so far ahead of anything else on the market, making the re-establishment of Ketron much easier. The problem then was (if you can call it a problem) being able to get enough stock to satisfy demand!” So, every time you got a delivery, everything was pre-sold? “Yes, and it’s been like that ever since! I only remember one time when we kept stock for two or three weeks.” Is that because Ketron owners are very brand loyal? “That’s the interesting thing about Ketron; there are so many people out there who’ve been using Ketron instruments for years, and they’ve been very loyal to the brand. Having experience with the range so far I can understand that. The products are very reliable, sound great and people keep hold of them. Many pro-players will not use anything else.” More recently, Howard has promoted the range through a roadshow series of presentations, using Ketron programmer and demonstrator Robert Messier (you can see his work on YouTube). The results have been illuminating in terms of the

make-up of interested customers, as he explains: “I think it’s been an interesting mix of people, as we have had the die-hard loyal Ketron followers, plus many newcomers jumping ship to try the new technology. It’s not surprising with the Ketron Audya being so ahead of anything else on the market.” Do you think that customers are finding Ketron products more user friendly? “Yes, it’s a different product, and it’s used in a different way; one of the benefits with Ketron, of course, is that you can update them online, so there’s an idea of ‘antiobsolescence’ here as well. Once you have an Audya, as each version becomes available, you can get that upgrade accordingly. That has a very exciting appeal to people generally, to keep their instrument up to date in real time. From a financial point of view, the instrument depreciates much less, which is a clear benefit to the end user. “Fortunately we have a good support network for Ketron, with a lot of expertise from people like Darren Brown, our engineering manager, who right from the start was totally captivated by Ketron and the technology involved.” Does he go back to classic models like the Solton MS40? “Yes, we are able to help out with a lot of the older models because Ketron Italy has been very supportive on all issues. Hence we are able to provide not just the technical backup, but we also benefit from Robert Messier coming over for special promotions.” How have the other models in the Ketron range been doing as a result of this exposure? “That was an interesting point as well, because the main focus was on the Ketron Audya, but as a result of that the spotlight fell on the existing products and resurrected strong interest in those as well. The success of the Audya has definitely increased the sales of the other products in the range.” 2010 has seen the launch of new Ketron models at Frankfurt. Howard describes the approach to introducing the technology to the market: “Because we were lucky in getting Robert Messier over to the UK just after the Frankfurt Music Show, we were able to undertake a week-long promotion at several of our key dealers. That was a great opportunity to educate both the dealers and the retailers on the technology involved in the products. Also we were able to expose the Audya 4 expander, the 61 note Audya 5, and the Klavi- Pro piano module, and we’ve accumulated back orders for those products. We’re told by the factory that they will be available from this summer onwards.”

Above: Howard Johnson, Trevor Brown and Darren Brown

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INTERVIEW

IN RETAIL WE TRUST

Retail Trust has been protecting the rights and well being of retail workers since 1832, when it was originally established under the name Cottage Homes. Louise Hoffman speaks with chief executive Nigel J L Rothband to find out more

How did you come to be involved in Retail Trust, and when did you become chief executive? I started my retail career in the summer of 1975 as a junior management trainee in British Home Stores in my home city of Manchester. Every week, the Cottage Homes steward held a fundraising raffle in aid of Cottage Homes. From that day on I have always recognised it as our industry’s charity, and as a result have been involved for 35 years. I did a sponsored 10 mile run in 1975, and have been involved in fundraising and sat on numerous committees since then. When I was retail managing director at the Body Shop we were given ‘charity days’, and I used them to volunteer working in the fundraising department at Cottage Homes. I sat on the London Ball organising committee for 10 years prior to becoming CEO in November 2003. When was Retail Trust established? Can you tell us a little about its history? On Wednesday 4 January 1832 a number of philanthropists gathered together in a London coffee house and formed the Linen and Woollen Drapers, Silk Mercers, Lacemen, Haberdashers and Hosiers’ Institution. The society was designed to aid employees who worked in what was then the predominantly wholesale drapery sector. In 1895 it was decided that the care of retirees from stores was taken to a new level by the creation of an estate

in Mill Hill, north London, that would provide “Cottage Homes for our poor aged members.” Since then four more retirement estates have been built: Derby in 1956 and Glasgow in 1967 (which was designed by the eminent architect Sir Basil Spence), and the generosity of the Moores Family, the founders of the Littlewoods empire, enabled the creation of a new residential home in Liverpool which opened in 2001. Just last year Moores House Salford was opened thanks again to the Moores family. While most of our history has been focused on providing retirement housing for retail employees, a helpline for working retailers was established in 1996. The confidential helpline was set up to offer comfort and counselling on day-to-day difficulties, whether at home or at work. In autumn 2001 Cottage Homes was re-named Retail Trust to embody the development of its work to make itself more relevant to employees in today’s retail industry. Retail Trust and its predecessors have flourished through seven successive reigns. Cottage Homes was honoured to win the Patronage of the then Princess Elizabeth in 1948 and this continued after her coronation in 1953. Her Majesty has been a gracious supporter of the charity ever since (62 years). What are the Trust’s main objectives in the present day? Retail Trust’s free confidential and

independent helpline – 0808 801 0808 – is available to anyone who works in or who has ever worked in retail or associated businesses in the UK and Ireland. Making the three million employees who work in the sector aware of this service is a priority. This is done by working in partnership with all retailers to promote our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and all that it offers. If you have retired from retail and require housing, Retail Trust’s five retirement estates in Glasgow, Derby, Salford, Liverpool and Mill Hill offer extra care and sheltered accommodation. In addition, in Glasgow, we have a 40-bedded care home. Can you outline a few recent campaign successes? The Retail Trust Helpline has been a huge success and has seen an increase in calls of 92 per cent over the last two years. The introduction of Retail Trust Week into the retail calendar is not only a fundraising opportunity for shopfloor staff to get involved, but it is also a huge opportunity to raise awareness of our services. Last year we launched Retail Trust Search For A Star, which was a great success, and we look forward to making this year’s search even bigger and better. It’s a nationwide competition to find and celebrate the talent of those that work in retail. Regional heats were held across the country with a team of industry insiders and celebrity panel who judged the contestants. The final 50 chosen were

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INTERVIEW

then put to a public vote and the four finalists performed at the Retail Trust London Ball. We were delighted with the level of talent that we unearthed, and our winner, Nicola Cassells from H Samuel in Ayr, (pictured above) has a promising future ahead of her. We look forward to discovering more names this year! What support does the organisation offer to those working in the retail industry? • The Retail Trust Helpline – this is a totally free, confidential and independent service and is open seven days a week. The team provide assistance and information on virtually any issue. • Hardship grants – we give callers access to one-off hardship grants where appropriate. This year we have spent £1 million in providing financial grants for people who are working in or are retired from retail. • Legal advice – we can organise a free telephone advice service to discuss any personal legal issue with the caller. • Debt advice – we work in partnership with the UK’s largest provider of free debt solutions. People in retail who need access to a free debt management plan can call us for help. • Counselling – when appropriate, Retail Trust can arrange a series of up to six free face-to-face counselling sessions for callers, local to where they live. • ReWork – our ReWork programme is designed to help people facing redundancy in retail to get a new job

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in the industry. It includes a guide to resolving redundancy, personal career coaching and invitations to resolving redundancy workshops. • Educational bursaries – we offer funding for qualifications and courses from GCSEs and NVQs right across the board to university degrees for people who want to develop a career in retail. • Retirement housing – at our aforementioned retirement estates and care home.

million individuals to be supported by Retail Trust.

How has the UK retail industry changed since the Trust began? What do you believe are the main challenges facing the sector today? Clearly it is impossible to compare retailing in 1832 with retailing in 2010, however we are living in a challenging economic climate. Retail staff, many of whom are on or close to the minimum wage, are vulnerable with the threat of redundancy. Retail Trust is here to act as a ‘safety net’ to everyone that works in our industry.

Which areas of retail do you believe need to see change now that we have a new government? The focus needs to remain on looking after our ‘everyday heroes’ and ensuring a happy and productive workplace within the retail world with support for those who need it, when they need it.

To what extent is the UK economy dependent upon its retail industry? Over three million people work in the retail industry – that’s one in ten of the working population; the second highest employer after the Government. More than ever there is a need for those three

How can those involved in retail work ensure the continued survival of the industry? Providing what the customer wants is always a good starting point.Those who continue to innovate, adapt and change will be in the best position to survive. Having an online presence is becoming increasingly important in addition to a highstreet proposition.

Finally, what are your hopes for the future of this sector? That retailers continue to demonstrate innovation and adaptability so that they grow and prosper, with redundancies kept to a minimum; that retailers increasingly recognise the importance of their employees and introduce initiatives that recognise their value and worth; and finally, an increased awareness of Retail Trust across the sector, with additional revenue streams to enable us to expand and increase our services across retail.

For more information about Retail Trust please visit the website at www.retailtrust.org.uk

BUSINESS

STAYING LEGAL Chris Barling, CEO of ecommerce solutions supplier Actinic, provides

advice for ensuring your web business is compliant with UK regulations o most business people, complying with rules and regulations is a painful necessity. A small minority don’t give it much thought, which can end up costing them dearly. We may well object to the rules, but they are a fact of life. However, with a little careful planning, the impact can be minimised. This article pulls together some of the areas that you need to think about and understand if you sell online – it’s important to remember that ultimately it’s your responsibility to comply with the law.

and the state where they live. As a UK business you can sell into the US tax free – but you should make your customers aware that they could be charged tax on the goods when they are imported. EU Distance Selling Directive Under the EU Distance Selling Directive, you must make clear who you are. This means providing full contact details including an address, phone number, email, and company and VAT registration numbers where applicable. All of this is also good practice for building trust. Under the same directive, you must accept goods for return within seven working days. Provided you have stated this in your terms and conditions, the buyer must pay for the return of the goods, but you cannot deduct your shipping cost from the refund. Why not make the ‘right to return’ a selling point? Failing to inform buyers of their rights actually confers additional rights on the buyer, so be transparent.

VAT or not You must be VAT registered if your annual sales exceed £68,000. If you’re not VAT registered, then don’t charge VAT as it would actually be against the law to do so. If your sales fall short of the VAT threshold, it’s still a good idea to become VAT registered as it saves for a lot of hassle. People often don’t understand the finer points of VAT. For instance, if your products are a mixture of those requiring VAT to be charged and those exempt from tax, then the VAT charged on shipping should be in proportion. Make sure your Allow for disabled visitors ecommerce solution can handle all of the VAT rules. Make sure that you comply with the disability law that hit the statute book in 2004. The key Tax abroad requirement is that you have to take ‘reasonable’ We’re in the EU so we are bound by EU rules. It’s steps to provide access to people with disabilities, not the same when handling US buyers. US states and this includes your online store. There are many might want to charge tax on sales into their area, but excellent resources available that can help inform it’s their responsibility to levy this tax.You don’t have and assist, try usabilityexchange.com/index.php as a to charge this ‘use tax’, which is between the buyer great starting point.

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BUSINESS

One of the essentials is to make sure that all images have alternate text tags so visually impaired people can still navigate your site. Other things to consider are colour contrasts so that colour-blind people can still read text. The size of text is also critical as vision generally deteriorates as you get older. Small text, produced by a trendy young web designer but excluding most over 50s from your store, makes neither commercial nor legal sense. Data protection You will need to register with the Information Commissioner’s Office at www.ico.gov.uk. Registering takes some time and effort, but is inexpensive, fairly straightforward and is unavoidable. Email rules You are only allowed to send marketing emails to individuals who have explicitly agreed to receive them from you. However, if you obtained their details in the course of a sale or a sales enquiry, the rules are different. You and your sub-contractors, such as delivery companies and companies soliciting feedback on your service, are allowed to continue communicating. The only requirement is that there is a free method of opting out each time you send them an email. This itself can be by email. PCI DSS Security of payment card data is crucial in the online world. The standard to protect card data is the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This is a joint venture between Visa and Mastercard, supported by all banks. Compliance with this standard is compulsory for all merchants who accept payment cards. You must be PCI DSS compliant if you handle, process or store payment card details either on computer or on paper. Formal information on PCI-DSS can be found at www.pcisecuritystandards.org Compliance with PCI DSS can be achieved in one of two ways: • Use a payment service provider (PSP) such as WorldPay or PayPal. Your customers and employees only ever enter card details into the site of the PSP. That way, the PSP does most of the worrying about compliance and you are left with some straightforward actions.

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• Make your own infrastructure fully compliant. This is a difficult route, and for the majority of smaller businesses, achieving proper compliance will probably not be practical or cost-effective. The total one-off cost is likely to exceed £45,000 plus ongoing fees. I strongly recommend using a PSP unless you are a large business. 3D Secure 3D Secure, known as ‘Verified by Visa’ and ‘Mastercard SecureCode’, is a sort of online chip and PIN system. Online buyers are prompted to enter a password whenever they use their card. The password is sent directly to Visa or Mastercard and they provide the thumbs up or otherwise. This is gradually becoming compulsory and you should consult your bank and PSP on how to comply. Socialise by all means The rise of online social networking over the last few years has been phenomenal, with millions spending hours each day on Twitter, Facebook et al. Clearly, there are big marketing opportunities, although it’s true that a consensus on how these should be exploited has not yet emerged. For anyone used to the rough and tumble of online debate, it may come as a surprise that the libel laws also apply to blogs and social networking sites. Indeed, this has been tested in a number of recent court cases. It’s also important to remember your comments may remain recorded forever. Think before you type! Tell the world One final thought. Assuming that everything adds up on the legal front, then tell the world. Anything that establishes your credibility will help you online. So why not list all of the things that you have done under the heading ‘We comply with the following legal and tax regulations’.

Chris Barling is the CEO of ecommerce and EPOS systems supplier Actinic.Visit www.actinic.co.uk for more information.

Finally… As a smaller company, it may seem hard to comply with all of the points. Your experience is not unique and it is true that some companies do slip up in one aspect or another. Once this has been exposed it’s always vital that you immediately do your best to comply. If you take rapid corrective measures to ensure that you become pure as the driven snow, with the exception of VAT transgressions, in most cases this will ensure that you avoid prosecution or business damage. So spend some time on being legal and decent, but remember your priorities. Just keep on selling!

OBITUARIES

REST IN PEACE 16 May – Hank Jones (aged 91) One of the greatest jazz 16 May – Ronnie pianists of the 20th century, James Dio (aged 67) Hank Jones, has passed away at Talented heavy metal vocalist the age of 91. Jones, who died Ronnie James Dio has died on 16 May, played for jazz and aged 67. swing great Ella Fitzgerald for Born as Ronald James six years between the 1940s Padavona in Portsmouth in and 50s. New Hampshire, he earned Still performing close to a reputation for having one the time of his death, Jones of the most energetic and came from a musical family. commanding vocals in rock. His brother, Elvin, is regarded Dio’s career began in the as one of the world’s finest 1950s and in the early 1970s drummers. Hank was known he was a regular opening for his elegant, soft style, which act for legendary British often fused gentle jazz with band Deep Purple. In 1975 bebop. In particular, he was the band’s guitarist, Ritchie much admired and respected Blackmore, formed Rainbow in the music world for his and asked Dio to join him as improvised solos. the group’s vocalist. Jones was additionally an Dio famously became the accomplished composer and lead singer for Black Sabbath his work was covered by a after former vocalist Ozzy multitude of artists. In 2003, the Osbourne left the heavy metal American jazz pianist Geoffrey outfit in 1979. In 1982 Dio left Keezer recorded an entire to form his own band, which album of Jones’ pieces. he named Dio. As well as working with Dio later rejoined Black Fitzgerald, Jones accompanied Sabbath for a short period Marilyn Monroe when she and in 1992 they released sang Happy Birthday to the Dehumanizer. He went on to then US president John F form the group Heaven and Kennedy at Madison Square Hell with some of the Black Garden, New York. Sabbath members. Dio made a Jones had a particularly cameo appearance in the 2006 strong following in Japan and film Tenacious D in the Pick of became a guest professor at Destiny, telling a young Jack Black the Osaka College of Music in to follow his dreams, urging: 1992. He toured the country as “Now go, my son, and rock!” recently as February this year.

A tribute to some well-known individuals who have sadly passed away during the last month...

19 May – Professor Dr Fritz Sennheiser (aged 98) Professor Doctor Fritz Sennheiser, the audio pioneer and founder of Sennheiser Electronic GmbH & Co KG, passed away just two days after his 98th birthday. Professor Sennheiser, who died on 19 May, was influential in the development of sound transmission technologies and was responsible for a number of significant breakthroughs in electro acoustics and transmission technologies. Founding Sennheiser in 1945, he helped to create the first shotgun microphones and open headphones and oversaw important developments in wireless radio and infrared transmission. Professor Sennheiser retired from the management of the company in 1982 and handed over to his son, Professor Doctor Jörg Sennheiser. Staff at the company said: “The audio industry has lost a huge figure, not only in terms of his technical expertise but also in terms of his humanity,” and added: “The history of the European audio industry will forever remain inextricably linked with the name of Fritz Sennheiser.”

24 May – Paul Gray (aged 38) Paul Gray, who was the bassist for US metal band Slipknot, was found dead in a hotel room by a member of staff at the Town Plaza hotel in Urbandale on 24 May. At the time of going to press, an autopsy on Gray’s body proved “inconclusive” and a toxicology report is due to be released later this month. Police say that they do not suspect any foul play or trauma. Famous for their Halloweeninspired masks, Slipknot topped the charts with their self-titled debut album 10 years ago. Their debut record sold more than a million copies. In 2006, the group won a Grammy for their single Before I Forget. Meanwhile, in the UK, they won several awards from metal music magazine Kerrang! Fans and musicians from all over the world have paid tribute to Gray. Andy Hall, a local radio director in Gray’s hometown of Des Moines, said of Gray: “This is a big blow, not only to the community of Des Moines but fans of metal at large, worldwide.” He went on to add: “It’s a devastating loss. Paul was a wonderful human being.”

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mic stand advert '10 p2:Layout 1 27/05/2010 11:59 Page 1

MakeByMore Money Selling Superior Stands Studiospares are looking for a limited number of dealers, music shops and installers to share the profits from the UK's best-selling Mic Boom Stand.

The Studio Mic Boom Stand has sold in vast quantities (around 35000 so far) due to its professional design, with features like metal base, height variable from 95 to 175cm, and a telescopic boom arm, fully adjustable from 41 to 81cm. Once accepted as a dealer, you can buy 12 stands for just £8 each, that's just £96 (+VAT and delivery). Or buy 24 stands for only £186. If you sell them at our price of £12.63 (£10.75 +VAT) you can make a tidy profit of 28%. But if you sell them at the lowest price one of our mail-order customers would pay - including carriage - that is £17.33 (£14.75+VAT) and your profit margin is an impressive 55%. On a product that always sells, and never comes back!

Features: • • • • •

Full function telescopic mic stand finished in matt black The boom arm can be removed or set at any length or angle The base unit and telescopic height adjusting sleeve are metal, not plastic All components available separately UK sales exceed 35,000

Part of an established range of microphone, speaker, music, guitar and keyboard stands.

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YOUR VIEWS

VOICE ON THE HIGHSTREET Steve Huxley of Drumstuff, Eastbourne How did you get involved in the business? Having been a drummer for a significant part of my life, I found that I really enjoy just hanging out with drummers. The shop and teaching faculty started with the aim of giving drummers a place where they could hang out, improve their playing and drink coffee! We always try to get good deals for our customers, and our stockholding has just got bigger and bigger. Who works alongside you? The wonderful Tim Cooke works on a casual basis for me, and he does some of the teaching as well, when he isn’t involved in recording sessions or tours. Rachael is in on Saturdays, and looks after me and our customers with coffee and the occasional bit of help for the younger students with their double stroke rolls! What do you enjoy most about the job? The people – some of my customers have become really good friends, and people like Paul Hagen at Active Music have been real heroes, putting me right when I get the business side messed up!

You offer tuition, how does this help your business? Our teaching programme caters for all levels of ability, and gives us regular contact with a large number of drummers in our store. It’s interesting, because students give us feedback straight away on any changes we make, and tell us what they like and don’t like (for example, decaf does not go down well). What’s the biggest challenge you face in your day-to-day job? Dealing with the business side – accounts, VAT, cash flow can be a nightmare. But they are all part of the day-to-day running of a business, of course. What advice would you give to someone starting out in the trade today? Do the research first! Find out what the reality is, not the dream. Pretend that you are selling boxes of machine parts – it will keep you grounded, away from the notion of rock stars popping in every day, and all that rubbish. At the end of the day, you are running a shop – be prepared to make it a long haul, and protect your margins.

You have a website, is this important to your business? Yes, www.drumstuff.co.uk has recently re-launched, and is a good source of sales. More importantly, it gives people a chance to find us! What is the current bestselling product? The Alesis DM10 is superb – the sounds are amazing, and it’s really playable. Meinl cymbals as well – great sounds.

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