WICKER PARK — A gathering spot focused on early childhood music lessons and parties led by cult favorite "Mr. Dave" celebrated its grand opening over the weekend — and the corner storefront was so packed that the doors had to close after just 10 minutes, its owner said.
"It felt great. Whenever you open a business, you never know how it will turn out," said musician Dave Hamilton, known as "Mr. Dave" to his young fans.
Hamilton estimated that about 100 people showed up to the free party on Saturday morning, where he was joined by "Drumming with Greg" Fundis and "Tunes with Tim" Bredrup at Mr. Dave Music, 1935 W. Division St. in Wicker Park.
A short scene from the concert. [Leah Root/YouTube]
Hamilton has taught children's music at the Old Town School of Folk Music since 2000 and lives in West Town with his wife, Christina, who also helps to run Mr. Dave Music.
In addition to teaching at the Old Town School of Folk Music, Hamilton has taught lessons and performed at Sprout, a baby apparel and bedding store a few doors west of what is now his first brick-and-mortar storefront.
"For the last 5 years we've had a fan base here on the street because of Sprout. You cannot beat [Division] in my view," Hamilton said.
Mr. Dave Music targets children age 5 and under. In addition to Fundis and Bredrup, Little Miss Ann Torralba, another sought after performer and teacher, is also on tap to teach at Mr. Dave Music.
When asked what families with young children need to know about Mr. Dave, Hamilton said, "We lead with love and kindness and everyone is accepted here."
For more info, visit Mr. Dave Music's website.
Grand opening concert at Mr. Dave Music. [Provided]
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