Salem Area Young Professionals

Jim Normandy was once a big-wig bank executive, but he's turned in his suit to follow his passion for music. His new company, Normandy Guitars, is building aluminum guitars from scratch in downtown Salem and selling the patented designs and models to musical acts around the world.

On November 12th, 65 YoungPros spent an evening with Normandy at his location in downtown Salem to see the warehouse for themselves and ask a few questions. (At left is Jim Normandy kissing one of his patented aluminum guitars featured in his store in downtown Salem.)

The shop, which is located on the corner of Front and State streets, includes guitars, basses, and other accessories for sale. The location also hosts guitar, bass, and drum lessons for those interested in learning an instrument.

Normandy and his staff have attracted media attention in their first full fledged year of operation, including feature articles in The Oregonian and specialized guitar magazines. Their instruments have also been picked up by major musical acts, including the guitarist for Def Leppard.

A customized guitar from Normandy can set you back $5,000 but more affordable lines of guitars range from $1,000 to $2,000. The company has also set up purchasing options through popular equipment websites including Amazon.com and Musician's Friend.

For more information on Normandy Guitars and their product lines, visit:
http://www.normandyguitars.com/

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