RUMFORD- “Bustin’” Justin Hamner has always had an appreciation for music and has never been afraid to teach himself a new instrument. He recently decided to share his love of music through an agreement with the Greater Rumford Community Center to offer a class.

Currently, Hamner is reaching out to the community for students who are interested in learning to play an instrument and is also gathering various instruments through donations.

John and Kathy Sutton recently agreed to donate Kathy’s family piano that she learned on as a child, along with a $500 donation to help get the program started.

“It’s a great thing Justin is doing,” stated Kathy. “I love music and after seeing so many people learning on this piano and knowing that neither of my daughters were going to be able to give the piano a home, I decided it would have a good home with Justin teaching more people to play.”

Justin started out as a drummer and over the years taught himself to play base guitar and guitar. Amanda, Justin’s wife, noted, “He wanted to learn how to play harmonica, so I bought him one for Christmas. By the time we were done unwrapping he was playing it. He really is amazing.”

Justin spent a year touring with Sophomore Beat and Stealing Skylight, performing 108 tours in just one year. He’s been playing in the area since he was 17 and performed with area legends Jimmy Austin, Paul Newton and Dennis Moro.

Anyone interested in learning to play an instrument can expect to be a member of a 16-week class for a minimum of one hour a day. All ages and level of talent are welcome. As a culmination of the program, Justin looks forward to putting on a rock show with all participants of the class.
“Not only will they be learning to play the instrument,” noted Justin. “But, they’ll learn to play as a group and harmonize for a rockin’ show at the end.”

For more information, please contact Justin by calling 357.5595 or look him up on Facebook under Bustin Justin Hamner.

John and Kathy Sutton are seen here gathered around their family piano with “Bustin’” Justin Hamner and his wife, Amanda. The Suttons donated the piano along with a $500 check to help the couple get started with their music program that will take up shop at the Greater Rumford Community Center. (Times photo by Cherri Crockett)

John and Kathy Sutton are seen here gathered around their family piano with “Bustin’” Justin Hamner and his wife, Amanda. The Suttons donated the piano along with a $500 check to help the couple get started with their music program that will take up shop at the Greater Rumford Community Center. (Times photo by Cherri Crockett)

Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.

Related Stories
Latest Articles