Mark Gardner

Mark Gardner, currently a co-owner of Naperville Music near Chicago, was a working musician who needed a day job, so he joined the company in 1985. Learning from a NAMM seminar in the early 1980s, Mark emphasized the importance of customer satisfaction to grow the store’s business. Starting with guitars, drums and lessons, Naperville Music expanded into band instruments and acoustic pianos. They purchased a strip mall and constructed a 9,000-square-foot space, allowing them to serve multiple markets and adapt to fluctuations. Maintaining strong relationships with suppliers like Gibson and Ludwig, Mark cherishes the friendships that began as customer connections. Despite the demanding hours, Mark's dedication to music and business led to sustained growth and success. After relocating to Arizona in 2010, he continues working remotely and leading his passion-driven team.