Musical Innovations, Greenville

The flittering notes of flutes pipe through the doors of Musical Innovations, followed by the deep plucking of a string bass as novice musicians studiously master their instrument of choice. Students can try their hands at woodwinds, horns, percussion, and stringed instruments, renting music-making equipment from the shop if necessary. Led by accomplished musician and educational advocate Tracy Leenman, each one of the shop's employees holds a degree in music, and thus can yodel Beethoven's Ninth Symphony while leading shoppers through an inventory of sheet music and instruments that range from beginner models to professional quality, including custom flutes and specialty strings. Home-school programs take musical instruction on the road, and in-shop summer camp programs keep youngsters from practicing archery with violin bows.