Today we’d like to introduce you to Abraham Morales.
Hi Abraham, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Jam Reparación de Instrumentos started both as a hobby and as a necessity. When I was 14 years old I began doing my own set-ups for my guitar and bass. I had a very specific sound and I realized that the only way to achieve it was by setting them up myself. Soon after, friends and fellow musicians began to notice my work and I began to work on their instruments as a favor. It wasn’t until 2013, at 17 years old, that I officially named the shop “Jam Reparación de Instrumentos”. It all started in my grandma’s storage room, piling up tools, strings and instruments. Eventually, I was able to move Jam to a new place, where I was able to work and receive clients more comfortably. Today we have a nice little shop, we recently celebrated our 8th anniversary and we look forward with gratitude toward more growth and music!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say the first obstacle was my shyness, this isn’t an issue today but, as a teen, working with customers and handling my own business was a challenge that forced me to come out of my shell. Among other things, the lack of resources I faced, in the beginning, was certainly a challenge to overcome. It’s no secret that I started with little to nothing, and I am very proud of all we’ve achieved along the way. The pandemic during 2020 was one of the most difficult obstacles Jam has faced. I, among many other small business owners, faced challenge after challenge with the developing pandemic restraints and limitations. When it became possible, I opened the shop back up and weeks after had to close again because I was COVID-19 positive. I thank my customers for their ongoing loyalty to my craft and to Jam as a small, local business.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Jam is best known for our slogan, in spanish: Dale amor a tu instrumento. In english this means, give your instrument some love! We are dedicated to giving each guitar, bass, instrument the attention and care it needs to get back in the hands of the musician and sound as great as it feels to play.
In the shop we receive fretted instruments for repairs and maintenance services, including fretwork, truss rod adjustments, electronic modifications, pick-up changes, electroacoustic conversions, custom works and sales.
At Jam, we are very proud of our teamwork. We are currently a team of three and work together to make sure each musician has the best experience possible with us. At this point in the gig, we are family.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
In my experience, the key is to observe others’ work with a critical eye without ever losing a sense of respect and admiration for their craft. I have found that valuing and respecting colleagues’ work has led to amazing friendships and work relationships. It’s very helpful to stay humble and realize that as there is always someone who I may be better than there is also always someone I can learn from. In the music business, you always have to keep an ear out for great new musicians, it’s great to share with other talented folks.
Contact Info:
- Email: jamrepinstrumentos@gmail.com
- Website: linktr.ee/jamreparacion
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamreparaciondeinstrumentos/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamledaamoratuinstrumento
Image Credits:
Melissa Gonzalez
