Striking the right chord with Teesside musicians
An independent trader is using the power of music to change lives.
Picks & Sticks, recently launched by Aaron Mockett at Dundas Shopping Centre and Indoor Market, in Middlesbrough, sells instruments, offers repairs and ensures musicians have properly set-up gear.
Aaron, whose sister, an artist, also customises instruments, said: “It’s all about the personal touch and we can make you sound ten times better.
“People love playing music.
“So, with a bit of help, why can’t they make a career out of what they love doing?”
A lifelong musician, Aaron also plans to donate refurbished guitars to schools to inspire the next generation.
Aaron added: “When I was a kid I picked up guitars, they were really bad and never in tune.
“If a kid picks up a guitar we’ve worked on it’s going to feel good, all the strings will be there and electrics are going to work.”
Alongside growing his business, he is organising a charity fundraiser called Music Innovation at The Chapel at Whitehouse Steet on May 10, raising money for Teesside Hospice.
Speaking about the hospice, Aaron added: “It’s close to my heart.
“Not just mine, but several of the people in our group.
“We’ve all had someone there at one stage in our lives.”
You can find out more about Picks & Sticks and Music Innovation on Facebook.
Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →
Enjoy the read? Get Bdaily delivered.
Sign up to receive our daily bulletin, sent to your inbox, for free.
How to make your growth strategy deliver in 2026
Powering a new wave of regional screen indies
A new year and a new outlook for property scene
Zero per cent - but maximum brand exposure
We don’t talk about money stress enough
A year of resilience, growth and collaboration
Apprenticeships: Lower standards risk safety
Keeping it reel: Creating video in an authenticity era
Budget: Creating a more vibrant market economy
Celebrating excellence and community support
The value of nurturing homegrown innovation
A dynamic, fair and innovative economy