Mountain Music Parlor, Reno, NV
The Magic of Sound at Mountain Music Parlor
At We Play Well Together, we cherish our partnerships with passionate music lovers who share our vision of bringing people together through sound. One such cherished partnership is with Mountain Music Parlor — a gem in Reno, Nevada, dedicated to preserving and celebrating Traditional American Music. For years, Mountain Music Parlor has carried Hokema Kalimbas, introducing countless customers to the enchanting world of these beautifully crafted instruments.
We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Renee Lauderback, co-founder of Mountain Music Parlor, about their story, their mission, and why Hokema Kalimbas have become a staple in their store. Here's what she shared:
Can you tell us a little about your store?
Surprisingly, Mountain Music Parlor — planted right in the heart of the city — is Reno's first and only Traditional American Music house dedicated to teaching, presenting, and preserving the treasured heritage music of America's roots.
That "surprise" is constantly expressed by nearly everyone who walks through the door — in the form of delight, excitement, and inspiration. Out-of-towners mourn with envy that such a place doesn't exist in their own city, wishing deeply that it did.
The immediate awe of being surrounded by beautiful silver-rimmed banjos, luscious mandolins and fiddles, entrancing dobros, and uniquely distinct instruments is overwhelming in the best way. But it's also the positive energy — the feeling of life in music, the warmth, the sense of community and care — that really hits people in the heart.
Mountain Music Parlor is more than a gift to the community. It's an honoring of time-worn traditions, heritage, and the beauty of human connection. A love affair with life.
Why did you decide to carry Hokema Kalimbas in your store?
One of our customers brought in a Hokema Sansula Basic Kalimba, and I immediately fell in love with the sound. It was so pure and magical — it hit me directly in the heart. I knew I had to share it with my customers.
What has been the customer reaction, and do they have a favorite model?
When I first experienced the Hokema Sansula, I was completely captivated. What started as curious intrigue turned into pure amazement the moment I touched the tines. The tone was unlike anything I'd ever heard — so pure and magical, with waves of sound that literally resonated in my chest.
Without hesitation — even though the kalimba isn't traditionally associated with American heritage music — I knew bringing Hokema into Mountain Music Parlor would not be a mistake. I was right. Customers love them. With a simple demonstration and the instrument in their hands, they quickly realize these kalimbas are not just instruments — they're soothing, mystical tools that break through the false belief that they lack musical talent. They find relief. Freedom. Healing.
The kalimba is an uninhibiting heart instrument — much like the Native flute.
Who are your typical customers that buy kalimbas?
Therapists and teachers are among our most enthusiastic buyers — they love them for their students. Kalimbas also make wonderfully easy yet deeply meaningful gifts. Something that soothes, and becomes truly cherished.
Where can people find you?
735 S. Center Street, Reno, Nevada
mountainmusicparlor.com
Instagram: @mountainmusicparlorreno
Facebook: @mountainmusicparlor
We're so grateful to be part of this journey with Mountain Music Parlor and to witness the joy that Hokema Kalimbas bring to their community.
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Intuitive Soundscapes Collections
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