Drum Den Celebrates First Year in Business

There's a famous rock song for people who'd rather bang on drums all day than go to work. But Hoboken native Pete Martinez is lucky that drums are his job. Martinez just celebrated his first year owning the Drum Den shop and studio at the Neumann Leather building.

The Drum Den, which opened last fall, buys and sells new, used and vintage drum kits and accessories, plus provides repairs. Martinez also teaches students and rents practice space to local drummers.

Martinez learned the drums as a child by taking private lessons and then playing with the school band at St. Peter's Prep.

“It really turned me on to music,” Martinez said. “I fell in love.”

A specialist in jazz, he later graduated with a degree in music from NJCU and earned a living playing freelance gigs for all sorts of musical performances including orchestras and plays. He has also played in his own jazz and rock bands.

Through the years Martinez, 30, had been collecting drums parts, and he realized he had enough inventory to open his own shop.

“It kind of all just turned into this store,” he said.

In addition to selling and repairing drums, Martinez also teaches over 40 students ranging in age from four to 65 years. He immediately immerses them in the craft regardless of their initial skill level.

“My students play on day one,” he said.

Martinez said he hopes local drummers find his store more convenient than driving out to a big box in the suburbs, especially when they need minor items at the last minute. The Drum Den has supplied bands whenever they play at local clubs such as Maxwell's.

Martinez said customers have responded favorably, citing numerous repeat visits, and that he's enjoyed his first year in business.

“Things have been going great,” he said. “No complaints at all.”

Coming soon: an Indian restaurant comes to Washington Street, and a health clinic opens uptown.

The Business Beat covers businesses opening, closing, relocating, renovating and celebrating anniversaries in the Mile Square. Have a Hoboken related business tip? Send an email to alanskontra@hotmail.com.