Column: The New Old Town Monrovia Report

Opinion by Shawn Spencer

How apropos, that last week’s column was about sustainable businesses in Old Town and this week’s column welcomes a new business. I am very excited to welcome Dan Wahl and his [new to Monrovia] store, The Drum Shop by Lone Star.

You might already know locals Dan Wahl and his wife, Mary. You might have even seen them on TV recently. Their home was featured on the DIY Network show “Restored.” Their Monrovia home was beautifully remodeled and aired in Season 6, Episode 1. It is gorgeous!

Dan’s store, The Drum Shop, opened in Fullerton four years ago. He modified his business during COVID-19, by offering all goods curbside. Thankfully, this enabled him to keep the doors open while so many were closing permanently. Come this May, what will be Fullerton’s loss will definitely be Monrovia’s gain.

Located at 415 S. Myrtle Ave., which formerly housed Espresso Mi Cultura, The Drum Shop will be a full-service drum store. Drum enthusiasts will have a store dedicated to all things drum related! The Drum Shop will offer drums and drum sets, percussion instruments (even singing bowls and bells), sticks, sheet music, books, apparel and accessories. You can even get minor repairs done onsite.

Not only is this store perfect for drum enthusiasts, but The Drum Shop also caters to local schools by supplying them with most of their orchestra and marching band equipment. For all of you parents out there who have a child that wants to be the next Jon Bonham or Sheila E., you are in luck; once they soundproof part of their space and get through Monrovia’s Planning Commission, The Drum Shop will also offer lessons.

Who knew Monrovia was home to so many talented drummers? If you’re a member of the Monrovia Tennis Club, I’m sure you’ve enjoyed the pool while being entertained by the incredibly talented Beckett Gohrick. You can watch his cover of Lenny Kravitz’s “Are You Gonna Go My Way” on YouTube. If you prefer a more mellow, jazzy sound, perhaps you are already a fan of our very own Mark Houston and The Houston Trio. Due to the pandemic, the trio is entertaining neighbors on North Ivy, above Hillcrest. Bring your chairs, a drink and snacks on Sunday, March 21, 4-6 p.m., to safely listen to some wonderful live music.

Of course, everyone knows our very own Jordan Radnoti, a Monrovia High School senior. Her song, “Escape Route,” is currently #2 on KROQ’s “Locals Only Playlist” — soon to be #1, I’m sure. If this is your first time seeing her name, remember it, because she is on her way to becoming a household name!

Let me be the first to wish The Drum Shop the best of luck in Old Town Monrovia! Stay tuned on the Monrovia California Facebook group for updates on their opening day. Stop in and introduce yourself and your kids to this fantastic addition to Old Town!

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