Art's Music

Paul Freehling was brought up in the music retail business as the son of Art Freehling, the legendary music man of Montgomery, Alabama. Art’s incredible knowledge of business and music not only resulted in a successful store; it also made him a local hero and a beloved salesman. Paul’s role in the business was also vast, including the introduction of a computerized system in the store as early as 1969. He also oversaw the expansion to three stores and the relocation of the Montgomery store to a new and stronger location. Paul’s daughters joined the business making their family’s t

Becky Lightfoot was one of the first people to earn a degree in music business from the University of Illinois, which she put to good use immediately. Becky began working in the sheet music department for Art’s Music Center in Alabama right after college. She helped grow the print department and became manager of sheet music for the store’s three locations. While there she worked with the founder, Art Freehling as well as Art’s son, Paul, and Paul’s daughter, Jessica. While working for Art’s, Becky was encouraged to take part in RPMDA. Becky’s energetic force for RPMDA kept her ac

Gale Mallory served as Band Director in Georgia and Alabama for over 38 years, making a real difference in the lives of thousands of students! She innovated several elements to the Marching Band’s Color Guard, such as the broader use of flags and dance lines. She attended Troy University where she met her husband and fellow band director Ronnie Mallory. The two taught together for many years before Gale decided to pursue her love of elementary music, working with beginners and having a ball. She also volunteers for Art’s Music, where Ronnie is a School Road Rep.

Ronnie Mallory is one of those small town Band Directors who had made a big difference in the lives of students, parents and fellow educators alike. Playing tuba in high school and enjoying the Music teachers he encountered, Ronnie attended Troy University where he not only earned his degree but met his future wife, Gale. The two taught together for many years before trying new endeavors. Next Ronnie become a school road rep for Art’s Music in Alabama in 1989. The role is perfect for him as he knows what band directors need and want.