Abbey Strings in Chicago?

[Bass Barrister]

There once was a string shop named Abbey Strings in Chicago which was located in the DePaul U. Music Mart (former Goldblatt's store). I know that the place is gone, as is the music mart itself.

I've heard, or read, somewhere that the store was operated by a Roman Catholic monk, with part of the proceeds going to suport the order (beat making cheese or fruitcake). I've also heard that Martin Sheridan had a connection with this shop. One of the current Chicago shops, A440, lists a Maring Sheridan "from Abbey Strings".

All this took place before I caught the DB disease. Does anyone recall the place or the accuracy of my recollections?

[Marc Piane]

I remember the place well. I used to stop in there a bunch. My CTA commute used to take me right by there. Saw lotsa neat basses. Martin owned it at one point and I think a jazz violin player named Savior Faire took it over for a little while.

Martin is a regular poster here so hopefully he'll chime in.

[drurb]

Originally Posted by fingers

...a jazz violin player named Savior Faire took it over for a little while.

A stage-name perhaps? Is this a joke? See here.

[Marc Piane]

Not a joke. A stage name. His real name is Sam. I've never played with him but we've met a few times and were on a couple of the same recordings. Real good player.

[drurb]

Originally Posted by fingers

Not a joke. A stage name. His real name is Sam. I've never played with him but we've met a few times and were on a couple of the same recordings. Real good player.

Perhaps modesty is not his strong suit.

[Eric Hochberg]

Originally Posted by fingers

Not a joke. A stage name. His real name is Sam. I've never played with him but we've met a few times and were on a couple of the same recordings. Real good player.

The one time I stopped in at Abbey Strings, "SF" came in and we played "Softly as in Morning Sunrise" together. He was a nice kid and sounded good. I didn't know he took over the place.

[Marc Piane]

That's what I heard but hopefully Martin will weigh in.