Before 2018, guitarists and musicians in San Marcos had very few, if any, resources for supplies like guitar strings, instrument accessories, and other basic gear. Also, there was nowhere in town to get your guitar.
That all changed when JAMS (J and M Music Supply) opened in San Marcos. Recently relocated to the heart of downtown to 118 S. LBJ, JAMS saves everyone a trip to Austin for something as small as a new guitar pick or string. But even better than that, if you need gig-worthy equipment and top-notch repair services, JAMS can set you up.
Ace Pepper is the guy behind JAMS. His contribution to the music scene and cultural spirit in San Marcos deserves to be highlighted and appreciated for the gift that it is.
According to a recent Community Impact article from August 2022, Ace doesn’t expect to get rich from his shop. Nonetheless, he is extremely excited and grateful to be able to support himself while acting as the source of expertise, guidance, fixes, and guitar gear for San Marcos’ guitarists. His love for both San Marcos and the art of guitars is a boon for our community.
JAMS Breathes Artistic Life into San Marcos
Ace brings both business savvy and his passion to JAMS, and he’s found a nice balance in San Marcos where he enjoys serving the people that keep him in business.
From a recent interview:
“What I’ve learned is that people still need a real shop where they can walk in and buy strings today,” Pepper said. “They still need a real person to talk to, to [tell them] what kind of guitar they need, or to fix their guitars or to hook them up with some advice or something. There still is a need for a mom-and-pop, brick-and-mortar rock and roll guitar shop.”
Guitars are as complex as automobiles, and in some cases, there are even deeper complexities (Fender vs. Gibson, for example). Ace is there for the musicians in San Marcos that appreciate the personal touch that you get at his music store.
When looking for a new guitar or simply looking for ways to improve your technique, you’ll want to talk to someone who knows guitars. Ace’s experience and passion for the instrument are a great resource. He could give you insight into nuances like what makes Stevie Ray Vaughn’s guitar tone so beefy, or he can explain the subtle differences in gauge, winding, and nickel alloy, and how to set your bridge to perfectly align with the sound you want when jamming out in the garage or playing at your next gig.
Ace is an expert on guitars and guitar setups and that’s irreplaceable in any city if you play guitar at all. Plus, who wouldn’t love to support a small, locally-owned music shop?
Living in San Marcos
It’s simple to understand why San Marcos has grown so quickly in the last 20 years when you factor in our appreciation for artistic spirit, the natural beauty surrounding San Marcos, and the short commute to Austin.
In 2000, 34,000 people were living in San Marcos. Today, we have over 72,000 residents and our city is stronger and more vibrant than ever. The real estate market is red hot and there are more people interested in relocating to San Marcos every day.
If you’re looking for a new home near Austin, TRACE is a master-planned community in San Marcos that offers new homes settled amongst immaculate parks and open spaces, top-tier amenities, acclaimed schools, and a quick commute to Austin.
Owning a home in our community simplifies life in the Austin area, and you don’t need to compromise on anything. Everything you want and need is here. TRACE provides peace, quiet, high-quality homes, and amazing outdoor spaces that make life better. That kind of serenity is priceless, but you can find it here.
If you’re ready to find the perfect home near Austin, reach out and see how easy it can be to start your new life in San Marcos.
