Wilhelm has made the coffee shop at Livano at Town Madison a swirl of music, conversation, and all-around good vibes. He may not be a morning person, but he’s most certainly a people person.
If you stick around long enough, you might get a concert with your coffee. As a teenager, Brody Wilhelm honed his accordion skills by playing gigs around town. Now, at just 20 years old, he’s a collector and the only accordion dealer and repair person in the area. Wilhelm personally owns nine accordions, one of which immigrated to the United States from Germany along with his great grandfather.
Wilhelm’s eyes light up as he talks about his hobby, his family history, and his dreams for the future. “I really always had a deep connection with this type of Eastern folk music,” Wilhelm says over the whir of the espresso machine. An interest in his German and Ashkenazi Jew heritage instilled an early love for the musical genre. “It’s actually part of the reason why I took up accordion, this heritage.” It’s also why you might hear the occasional folky twang drifting from Trapeze. “I think it goes with the coffee shop aesthetic.”
In just the time it takes to make a cup of coffee, it becomes clear that Wilhelm has a deep interest in the past and appreciation for family tradition. It’s no surprise to learn that Wilhelm is studying to become a high school German teacher. His mother was a teacher in the local school system, so he comes by his passion for education naturally. After talking with Wilhelm, it’s easy to picture him in front of a class. His bright smile and obvious enthusiasm could win over the surliest teenager. And if that doesn’t work — maybe a quick song. Having lived in Alabama his whole life, he’s eager to travel, to see new things and old places. He dreams of teaching out west or even in Germany.
For now, Wilhelm is working, studying, and enjoying his time at Livano. He reflects on the beauty of living and working in the same community — he doesn’t mind the saved time and gas money. He likes connecting with his Trapeze morning regulars and serving the after school hot chocolate rush. In the coffee shop, he’s curated a small lending library, stacked with books for both kids and adults. Wilhelm’s future will certainly be bright but he’s enjoying the present, tending to his own little slice of community at Livano at Town Madison.
