Where once fine women's garments were sold, now the tinkling sound of piano keys can be heard. Selling pianos, guitars and drums McKibben Music has opened up shop on the Covington Square on the former premises of R&L Shop.

Store owner Mack McKibben, a Covington native, has been tuning, repairing and selling pianos for nearly 35 years.

McKibben, who is self-taught on the piano, saxophone, drums and guitar, says it has always been a dream for him to open up a music store on the square.

When the R&L Shop property became available, McKibben, with the support of his family, decided that it was time to realize his dream.

"I just decided I wanted to come to town and open up a little store," McKibben said.

McKibben Music is a full-service music store. In addition to pianos, guitars and drums, the store also sells recording equipment, professional audio gear and offers on-site music lessons.

McKibben Music is a licensed Roland piano merchant. The store also carries high-quality used grand pianos, Peavey guitars, Takamine guitars and Roland's V-Drums.

Kenny French, operations manager for McKibben Music, said the store plans to expand its drums selection.

McKibben Music also offers guitar repairs, piano tuning and piano repairs.

Music lessons at the shop are $85 a month which buys students weekly 30-minute lessons on the piano, drums or guitar with one of McKibben Music's six music teachers.

 The store is offering a December discount of $45 for two music lessons.

In celebration of its grand opening from 11:30 a.m. to 4: 30 p.m. on Saturday there will be a succession of music acts on the square including The Church at Covington Praise Team, Dan Walden, Mill Brook, Ediva, No Regrets, Scott Peacock and Drew Walker. The store will also have a raffle.

"It's going to be a point of destination for people," McKibben said of his store. "It's going to be something."