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Play It Forward Hub: “Where Instruments Find New Homes”

For the past decade, I’ve worked in data science and software development, but music has always been my first love. Before that, I spent 20 years running World Music Connections – AM Studio in Midtown Manhattan as a session bassist, producer, and recording engineer. While I’ve moved into tech, the passion for music never left, and now I’m channeling it into something that gives back to the community.

Play It Forward Hub was born from the belief that every musician deserves a great instrument, and every instrument deserves to be played. Too many sit forgotten when they could be making music. We seek out these instruments, professionally restore them, and get them into the hands of those who will love them. Based in Rogue Valley, we travel up to 500 miles monthly, scouting instruments to rescue. While we gladly accept donations, we also pay fair prices—though we can’t always match every offer. This isn’t about money; it’s about music. You can find our restored instruments at Ashland Artisan Emporium, ready to be played again. If you have an instrument to sell, donate, or are looking for one, come be part of something special. Let’s Play It Forward together!

My website is http://playitforwardhub.com

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Ashland Artisan Emporium

The Ashland Artisan Emporium is owned by Michelle Christian, wife and mother of 3 daughters. Her husband, Travis, is the business manager for Adroit Construction in Ashland, Oregon. The Emporium was the vision of Michael Rydbom, Michelle's father. In April of 2010, Michael asked his daughter if she would be willing to help transform the old DJ's Video space into a crafter's marketplace. Michelle had always admired her dad's entrepreneurial spirit and was eager to make him proud, so even though she already had two kids, a real estate career and one more daughter on the way, she said yes. On November 1, 2010, the store opened it's doors to a welcome reception from the community. They were voted Best New Business of 2010 only months later by the Ashland Sneak Preview. Within weeks of opening, the store was at capacity and had quickly become the "go-to" store for all things unique and affordable.

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