Sounds of drums and guitars used to fill Steve’s Music Store, but now those instruments are being packed up for auction. “Hopefully, everything gets sold and picked up,” said Michael Kirman, Steve’s Music Store Vice President. Everything left in the now-closed flagship store has a lot number on it. Kirman says there are thousands of objects that can all be bid on during the online liquidation auction, including a black-and-white polka dot Fender Buddy Guy guitar. The auction is on the Bid Continental website. It’s a two-day event. Drums are available Wednesday and the rest, including guitars, keyboards and recording gear, will be available on Thursday. The St. Catherine Street East location was open to the public on Monday and Tuesday. It was a chance to test gear before placing a bid and an opportunity to say goodbye. Kirman says 500 to 600 people visited. It was emotional, said Kirman. A lot of the old-time customers came in and described the store as their home away from home. Kirman took over the family business after his father, Steve, died. In May, it celebrated its 62nd anniversary. In February, Steve’s other locations in Toronto, Ottawa, the South Shore, and the West Island were shut down. The flagship store was the last one standing until now. Kirman says several factors are behind the closure, including a changing music scene. “It’s getting harder and harder. More and more people buy online,” said Kirman. The family business has played its final note, but the music can carry on at home. The online auction runs until Thursday.
