End of an era as Newbury’s only high street music shop closes
Newbury’s independent music shop Hogan Music has gone into liquidation, but there is some good news as the education arm has been bought and will continue its work as Good Vibes.
Over the past four decades, Hogan Music has been serving the local musicians in Newbury and across the surrounding area.
It all started 37 years ago when Gerry Hogan first opened the doors of a small music shop.
Since then, it has supported and served successive generations of families going back across all those years.
“I can’t state how proud we are to hold the place we do in the hearts of the local community,” said Hogan Music director Steve Christmas.
“As with many other small, independent high street businesses, we have been hit hard by many things outside of our control: firstly, Covid, and then more recently, being impacted by the ongoing cost of living crisis, inflation, and rising costs that we all find ourselves in.
“As it has been for all of us, the last three to four years have been incredibly tough.
“As a result of those financial pressures and increasing online competition, regrettably it has become impossible to continue operating as an independent high street music shop and we have had to take the difficult decision to liquidate the company.
“Although incredibly sad to lose the Hogan Music name from the high street, I am pleased to announce that Good Vibes Music Academy has stepped in and bought out the music teaching side of the business, securing a long term, sustainable future for music education in the area.
“There is such a vibrant music scene in Newbury, and we all know the importance that music plays in people’s lives and the joy that it brings.
“Good Vibes will be focussing on combining our passion for music with expert tuition and a huge amount of fun!”
Good Vibes will still be based on the corner of the Kennet Centre on Bartholomew Street/Market Street and will continue to work with the very best teachers and musicians in the area, many of who you can see gigging locally, nationally, and internationally with some of the biggest names around.
“We are so lucky to have such a breadth of talented musicians and teachers working with us,” added Mr Christmas. “It goes without saying that we will ensure that there is a seamless transition over to Good Vibes ensuring that students don’t miss a beat.
“With more than 20 years in music education, my passion for getting as many people as possible involved in making music remains unwavering.
“Our work with the local community, schools, parents, students of all ages, arts organisations and so on will continue with renewed vigour, focus, and excitement.
“I am so excited about the future with Good Vibes and know that we will remain at the forefront of music education in the area.”
You can follow on all social media channels @wearegvma and visit them at www.goodvibesmusicacademy.co.uk if you would like to join them on this journey.
