Clinton Voigt, 92, of Beloit, Wis., passed away on February 10, 2013.
In the spring of 1939 Voigt purchased and took over a guitar studio in Beloit that specialized in Hawaiian guitar, known as the Honolulu Conservatory of Music. After a number of years, as the business diversified, the operation’s name was changed to Voigt Music Center, which is still in business to this day in Beloit, with a branch in Janesville, Wis.
Clinton started his music business career as a Hawaiian guitar teacher, and then changed over to hiring teachers, offering instruction in guitar, accordion, piano, organ, and band instruments. He became involved in expanding his business from a music studio operation to full time MI store. Voigt Music Center grew to expand its business servicing school band and orchestra directors covering an area from Oregon, Wis. to Oregon, Ill.
Clinton helmed Voigt Music Center for 61 years, retiring in 2000. The business ownership and management was transferred to Tony and Londa Farrell Sr. and their son, Tony Farrell Jr. The business is celebrating its 74th year of business in Beloit and 26 years in Janesville, Wis.
Clinton was a former member of NAMM, American Music Conference, National Association of School Music Dealers, Illinois Guitar League, and International Guitar League. He was awarded a lifetime membership of the American Guild of Music for his many years of service as president, secretary, contest director, and convention manager.
