While Music to My Hair Salon was still under construction, cosmetologist and salon owner Asad Alkurabi had a strong idea for the future of the blank white walls and empty stage.
“I have a vision to create the best team this area has ever seen. We want to do fashion shows, we want to do bridal parties. We just strive to be the best,” Alkurabi said.
Music to My Hair Salon, which had a soft opening Tuesday, Sept. 1, is not the usual salon. At 1214 Troy Schenectady Road, it will soon offer more than only haircuts, dyes and styling. Equipped with a stage for local musicians in the back of the salon and room for a party, the salon will host live music, art receptions and charity events.
“Say we’re open, and a client or friend or whoever, who was a musician, is more than welcome to come and play during business hours,” Alkurabi said. “But they have to be good.”
After-hours events will also be held, especially if it’s a catered charity event or art show. According to Alkurabi, regular business hours will be Tuesday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Appointments can be booked Monday, when the salon hosts training classes, or if a client wants an earlier appointment.
Music to My Hair Salon is Alkurabi’s first business he has opened on his own. A licensed cosmetologist for more than 15 years, he said he wanted to open the salon and music venue to give back to the community.
“I decided to open not just a business. I wanted to create a different concept, because out of all the salons I’ve worked at, I’ve seen all of the negatives go on… and I listened to that. I wanted to create something that was very inspiring and gives back to the community,” he said.
The salon will provide entertainment, education and community involvement, said Alkurabi. In addition to live music, he said he wanted to host poetry readings, open mic nights and comedy clubs.
Local artists will be able to display their work on the salon’s walls, which Alkurabi designed specifically to feature. Already, anyone entering the salon can see an artistic touch with the chandeliers made of drum kits. Alkurabi said he bought the drums and brought them to a good friend, who made them into the light fixtures.
Salon receptionist Michelle Vargason said she has known Alkurabi for only a short time, since around Christmastime.
“He stopped me in the mall. He was like, your hair is beautiful. You’re beautiful. He told me about the whole concept of the salon he’s opening and everything,” Vargason said. She and salon manager Ashley Millet do the hair modeling for Alkurabi.
“For him, this whole thing is a place to come together,” said Vargason. “It’s opening a new door, and I’m excited about it. He’s such an awesome person.”
A grand opening will be held once all construction is complete, Alkurabi said. Updates can be found on the Music to My Hair Salon Facebook page.
