Los Angeles, the city of angels, is also a vibrant hub for music. From Hollywood's iconic studios to the bustling live music venues, LA boasts a diverse and thriving musical landscape. Finding the right musical instrument can be a journey, so this guide highlights 31 of the best places to find your perfect instrument in the City of Angels. We'll cover everything from guitars and pianos to unique and specialized instruments, ensuring you find the perfect instrument to express your musical soul.
Finding Your Perfect Instrument: A Genre-Based Approach
Choosing a musical instrument can feel overwhelming. To help you narrow down your options, let’s explore some of LA's top shops categorized by instrument type:
Guitars: Electric, Acoustic, and More
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Guitar Center (Multiple Locations): A ubiquitous name in music retail, Guitar Center offers a massive selection of guitars—electric, acoustic, classical, and more—from beginner to professional levels. They also have a wide range of accessories and equipment. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through the options. Expect to find brands like Fender, Gibson, Taylor, Martin, and Ibanez.
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Wild West Guitars: Specializing in vintage and rare guitars, Wild West Guitars is a haven for collectors and serious players. Expect higher price points, but the quality and uniqueness are unparalleled. They often feature hard-to-find models and limited editions.
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Santa Monica Music: A smaller, independent shop with a curated collection of both new and used guitars. They often have a good selection of boutique brands and offer personalized service.
Keyboards and Pianos: From Digital to Grand
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Sam Ash Music (Multiple Locations): Similar to Guitar Center in scope, Sam Ash offers a wide variety of keyboards, pianos, and digital workstations. They cater to all skill levels and budgets. Look for brands like Yamaha, Roland, Casio, and Kawai.
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Steinway & Sons (Beverly Hills): For the ultimate luxury experience, Steinway & Sons is the place to go. This prestigious store showcases world-renowned grand pianos and offers a level of service that matches their high-end instruments. Expect to invest significantly.
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Westlake Music: While known for their recording studio services, Westlake Music also has a retail space with a carefully selected inventory of keyboards and pianos, often catering to professional musicians and recording artists.
Brass and Woodwinds: The Heart of the Orchestra
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The Woodwind & Brasswind: This large retailer specializes in brass and woodwind instruments, offering a vast selection from various manufacturers, including Yamaha, Selmer, Conn, and Bach. They're a great resource for students and professionals alike.
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Los Angeles Music Center: While not a dedicated instrument store, the Music Center often hosts instrument sales and workshops, providing access to a unique selection of instruments. Check their event calendar for opportunities.
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Local Music Shops: Many smaller, independent music shops around Los Angeles specialize in specific instruments, particularly brass and woodwinds. Searching online for "brass instrument repair Los Angeles" or similar terms can uncover these hidden gems.
Percussion Instruments: Rhythm and Groove
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Drum Center (Multiple Locations): Drum Center is a drummer's paradise, offering an extensive selection of drums, cymbals, percussion instruments, and accessories. They host regular drum clinics and workshops, providing a great community for drummers.
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Pasadena Music Center: A reliable source for a diverse range of percussion instruments, from basic drum sets to more exotic percussion instruments from around the world. They often carry instruments used in world music and ethnic genres.
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Online Retailers (with Local Pickup): Many online retailers offer a wide selection of percussion instruments with options for local pickup in Los Angeles, expanding your options significantly.
String Instruments: Violins, Cellos, and More
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Shar Music (Online with Local Pickup): Shar Music is a large online retailer with a vast catalog of string instruments. They often offer local pickup options in Los Angeles, making it a convenient way to explore a wide selection.
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Local Luthiers: Los Angeles has several talented luthiers who craft and repair string instruments. These artisans offer unique, handcrafted instruments and personalized service, often ideal for serious musicians seeking a customized instrument.
Other Instruments: Explore the Unique and Unconventional
- Specialty Music Shops: Beyond the large retailers, many small shops specialize in niche instruments like ukuleles, banjos, harmonicas, and more. Exploring different neighborhoods can lead you to these hidden gems.
Beyond the Instrument: Accessories and Services
Finding the perfect instrument is just the beginning. Many of the stores mentioned above offer a range of services including:
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Instrument Repair and Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your instrument in top condition.
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Lessons and Instruction: Several stores offer lessons from qualified instructors.
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Accessories: From strings and picks to cases and stands, having the right accessories enhances your playing experience.
Choosing the Right Instrument for You
Selecting an instrument is a personal journey. Consider the following:
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Your Musical Goals: What kind of music do you want to play?
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Your Budget: Instruments range in price from affordable to exorbitant.
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Your Skill Level: Are you a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player?
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The Instrument's Size and Weight: Some instruments are more portable than others.
Remember to try out different instruments before making a purchase. The feel and sound of an instrument are highly subjective. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from experienced staff.
Conclusion: Your Los Angeles Musical Adventure Awaits
Los Angeles' vibrant music scene offers a wealth of options for musicians of all levels. By exploring the diverse shops and resources highlighted in this guide, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect instrument to fuel your musical passion. Enjoy your musical journey in the City of Angels!
