Black Cat Music caters to musicians of all styles

Adam Kary can see that the local music scene is “taking off” and the Philadelphia native is already doing his part to help both new and established musicians do what they love to do — play music.

Kary opened Black Cat Music on Mercer Street back in July 2009 and was open on a limited basis, but he has now moved to his full-time headquarters at 91 North Washington Street in Berkeley Springs.

Kary, himself a seasoned drummer and all-around musician, has created a music-friendly space in his new shop. An eye-catching array of guitars hangs on the wall, a full drum set sits in the corner, ready for action, and a couch welcomes musicians to sit down and strum some tunes.

Black Cat Music carries a full line of instruments — from guitars to keyboards — and accessories. Shelves include guitar strings, drum sticks, sheet music, audio equipment and instructional books.

He is an authorized dealer for Danelectro, Aria, ESP and D’Addario strings and accessories.

Kary offers music lessons for beginners to advanced players, instrument repairs on just about anything and can even provide sound recording services to someone who wants to record a single musical track or a whole album.

His “School of Rock,” modeled on a Philadelphia music school that later inspired a popular movie, begins its Spring Session this month. Eight-week sessions are open to musicians age eight through 18.

Kary, 36, knows the music world inside out. He toured as a drummer with the band “God Lives Underwater,” opening for bands like Korn, No Doubt and Garbage. He still plays with Washington, D.C. band “Puma Libre.”

Kary said he loves teaching, and is happy to be able to offer music classes through his shop, which has been a long-time dream of his.
Black Cat Music is open daily at 11 a.m. The shop can be reached at 304-258-4440.