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Best Places To Buy Musical Instruments In Chicago

Walking into a music shop can be overwhelming, but the best places to buy musical instruments in Chicago make it easy by offering great service, a wide selection of instruments and in some cases, music lessons. Whether searching for a guitar or a hand-made violin, these shops have a variety of choices for the novice or expert musician.

OldTownSchool
Old Town School of Music offers expert advice on a wide range of musical instruments. (Credit: www.oldtownschool.org)

Old Town School of Folk Music

909 W. Armitage Avenue
Chicago, Ill. 60614
(773) 728-6000
http://www.oldtownschool.org

A one-stop music shop, Old Town School of Folk Music, on Armitage Avenue in Chicago, offers expert advice on a wide range of musical instruments. Whether you're looking to learn how to play the guitar or are interested in the workings of a ukulele, shop staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the broad selection of pieces they offer. Once you've chosen an instrument, the shop offers music lessons for all ranges of expertise. 

Chicago Music Exchange

ChicagoMusic
If guitars are your passion, your pulse might start racing upon entering the Chicago Music Exchange. (Credit: www.chicagomusicexchange.com)

Chicago Music Exchange

3316 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, Ill. 60657
(773) 525-7773
http://www.chicagomusicexchange.com

If guitars are your passion, your pulse might start racing upon entering the Chicago Music Exchange. The walls are lined, from ceiling to floor, with vintage guitars. The prices are in line with the selection and expert advice –- if you're looking for a bargain, you might prefer to go elsewhere. But to get the best value for your money, this shop has a wide array of rare pieces to choose from.

ChicagoFret
The expertise of the staff and fine quality of repair work make this store an invaluable option for the musician looking for a repair or restringing. (Credit: www.chicagofreworks.com)

Chicago Fret Works

4229 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, Ill. 60618
(773) 698-6246
http://www.chicagofretworks.com

Whether you're looking to purchase a new piece of equipment or to get a cherished instrument you already own repaired, Chicago Fret Works on Lincoln Avenue is a guitarist's dream. The expertise of the staff and fine quality of repair work make this store an invaluable option for the musician looking for a repair or restringing. Attention to detail and honest pricing is an asset to any musician who cares about his or her guitar.

Danache Guitar Co.

906 Madison Street
Oak Park, Ill. 60302
(708) 386-6666
www.danacheguitars.com

Head to the west side of Chicago into Oak Park to Danache Guitar Co. for custom-made guitars. A repair and custom shop, Danache Guitar Co. even offers a guitar-making course and private guitar lessons. Proprietor Danache Ivanovic is happy to answer any questions personally, a nice touch that helps make this one of the best places to buy musical instruments in Chicago.

440violin
A 440 Violin Shop in Chicago's Roscoe Village is no frills. (Credit: www.a440violinshop.com)

A 440 Violin Shop

2222 W. Roscoe Street
Chicago, Ill. 60618
(773) 348-4949
http://www.a440violinshop.com

A no-frills music shop, A 440 Violin Shop in Chicago's Roscoe Village neighborhood offers a personal touch to musicians seeking violins, violas, cellos, double bases and related accessories. The shop specializes in the sale, repair, restoration and rental of violins, violas, cellos and string basses. Not sure you want to purchase an instrument? Rent one from A 440's selection. The shop offers instruments from as early as 1880 through the 21st century.

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