Monochords, Kalimbas, Koshi & Zaphir Chime & Gong Drums– Handmade Sound Healing Instruments
Kind Mountain Collective, Idaho Springs, CO
Discover Kind Mountain Collective: An Idaho Springs Gem Sharing the Magic of Hokema Kalimbas
At We Play Well Together, we’re always grateful to partner with music stores that radiate authenticity, warmth, and a deep connection to their local communities. One such treasure is Kind Mountain Collective, nestled in the heart of Idaho Springs, Colorado. With its roots in acoustic charm and mountain-town creativity, this unique space has become a beloved destination for musicians, artists, and sound explorers alike.
We connected with the team to dive into their origin story, learn about their unique customer base, and discover what makes Hokema Kalimbas such a natural fit in their curated collection.
1. Can you tell us a little about your store?
In the Spring of 2015, Kind Mountain Collective began carrying a limited selection of used acoustic instruments and music supplies, making it stand out as an Idaho Springs gift shop with a touch of sound. With little to no options for music stores along the I-70 mountain corridor, the addition was well received and the Kind Mountain Music store was born. Today, Kind Mountain Music features a large variety of new, used, vintage, and antique musical instruments as well as an ample selection of music supplies.
2. What makes your store unique compared to larger retailers?
Most importantly, when you visit Kind Mountain Music you will find an inviting intimate atmosphere. Our staff will give you space to check out the store and products but will be ready to assist you with your questions and needs. We are familiar with every instrument in our store. We don't have 'floor' models. What you see is what you get so you get to check out exactly what you are going home with.
3. Why did you decide to carry We Play Well Together instruments, specifically Hokema Kalimbas, in your store?
A few years back I met Joule, one of the women who work with We Play Well Together, when she stopped by our shop. We spoke for awhile about music and the instruments the company had to offer. She put me in touch with Gabriel who offered to put some instruments in our store on a trial basis. The Kalimbas were very well received and we were quickly reordering. Now we consistently sell and reorder the all of the Kalimbas from Hokema
4. What has been the customer reaction to our instruments? Any favorite stories or experiences?
When a customer gets a Hokema Kalimba in their hands they instantly recognize the superior quality and craftsmanship which comes out in playability and tone. Central City, located about 10 miles from us, has a busy opera season in the summer. I always get visits from people who are working the opera, often the performers. I had two of the lead performers, I believe the Baritone and Tenor singers stop by one day. One of the singers bought the B15, G major, Kalimba, which was the first time I sold one of the larger Kalimbas. He was so thrilled with his purchase!
5. Do you or your customers have a favorite Hokema Kalimba? If so, what do you love about it?
I would have to say that the Sansula models are always a hit. They are built with a drum head on a resonator body. If you set them down flat on the countertop, play the notes while simultaneously lifting and resealing the resonator onto the counter top, you get a 'Wah' effect. It sounds amazing!
6. Who are your typical customers?
I'm not sure we have a 'typical' customer. Being a music store, we do get a lot of musicians, but we also cary local art and are located in a high foot traffic area, downtown in a small mountain town on the I-70 corridor into the Rockies. This helps bring in the sound healers, teachers, and just music-curious passer byers!
7. What advice would you give to someone new to sound healing or intuitive sound exploration?
Let it flow!
Where to find Kind Mountain Collective:
We're located at 1538 Miner Street, Idaho Springs, Colorado
https://kindmountain.com/idaho-springs-music-store/
You can also find us on social media at
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kindmountaincollective/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KindMountainCollective/
