Meet the Frantics
Our Story - and we're sticking to it!
Al and Mary Frantic had a vision; one day they would leave New Jersey to live near the beach. Then one day, they discovered Milton, Delaware, and the rest is history...
Landing in the first State in 2018, they were quickly welcomed and have become well-known not only for bringing a new business to Milton but also for giving back to the community they serve. Everyone knows them as the “Frantics” and due to being in witness protection, no one really knows what their real last name is.
The Frantics share a passion for music, community, and philanthropy. With a fairly young business at the onset of the COVID Pandemic, they knew they had to think outside the box. During the lockdown, they hosted weekly live broadcasts on social media to engage with their friends, fans, and anyone who would tune in. As the warmer weather broke, they began hosting by-invitation house concerts outside their home. During a time when venues had to cancel all music, it was a great way for people to experience some live music safely in an outdoor environment.
During the pandemic, they learned of a friend - a fellow musician, neighbor, and client who was diagnosed with a catastrophic illness. Together, with help from local artists and musicians, they organized a 3-day virtual fundraiser and concert that contributed thousands of dollars to the fund to benefit the artist. This event was the catalyst for the Frantics to set up their own foundation called Frantic Music Project to be able to give back by helping musicians in need and providing programs like the Frantic Music Open Mic.
When they are not working or gigging, they love fishing, camping, antiquing, playing music, spending time with their dogs, and spending time together.
Al & Mary Frantic
Photo by Deny Howeth Photography
Al Frantic – Luthier by day, musician by night.
Growing up a modeler and musician, Al has been able to marry his passions in woodworking, electronics, and playing music, and provides outstanding service to the many area musicians that put their trust in him. Whether it is repairing a damaged instrument, doing a basic setup, or a full-blown build or mod, Al is the man! You can rest assured that the work is done here by a musician who understands your needs and what an instrument should feel and sound like.
When not at the shop, you can find Al performing at a number of local venues throughout Southern Delaware either solo or with his band. Check out Al Frantic for the latest schedule.
Stop in to chat gear, see what’s new, or where he’ll be next.
Mary Frantic – the "not-so-behind-the-scenes" Frantic.
With a diverse background in retail, logistics, and non-profit management, Mary handles the day-to-day operations of the business - handling our social media, website, and music events. If that’s not enough, she also heads up Frantic Music Project.
When you arrive at the shop, Mary is usually the first one you will see. Not just another pretty face, she can hold her own talking to you about gear and is knowledgeable about the work we do and the products we sell.
Mary always gets asked if she plays. Well… As a child, there was some piano but she dreamed of an upright bass, so her dad presented her with a violin. So close… After playing for about 10 years, she realized it just wasn’t for her. While dating Al, he taught her a few chords on the guitar and a couple of tunes on the bass. Later in life came drum lessons, but then life got in the way. Most recently Mary picked up the bass again and is having a blast jamming with Al.
Little Dog & Sara – The real brains of the operation.
Yes, her name is Little Dog and she’s got a big attitude, and you’ll hear her ready to “sic” you behind door number two. She is bossy and trust us, you don’t want to cross her.
Sara, on the other hand, is the company’s CHO, (Chief Hound Officer). Sara studied at UD (University of Dog) and majored in Culinary Arts. Her favorite dish is chocolate pudding.