Finding the perfect musical instrument can be a journey, especially in a vibrant city like Phoenix. With so many options available, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best places to buy 19 different musical instruments in Phoenix, ensuring you find the ideal instrument for your musical aspirations. We'll explore both large retailers and specialized boutiques, catering to various budgets and musical tastes.
Finding Your Perfect Instrument in the Valley of the Sun
Phoenix boasts a thriving music scene, and with it comes a diverse range of musical instrument retailers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding beginner, this guide will help you navigate the landscape and discover the perfect instrument for your needs.
Strings
1. Guitars (Acoustic & Electric):
-
Guitar Center: A national chain, Guitar Center offers a wide selection of guitars from various brands, along with accessories and repair services. Their Phoenix location often has sales and deals, making it a good place to find a bargain. They cater to all skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
-
Arizona Music: This local shop focuses on a curated selection of high-quality guitars, offering personalized service and expertise. They often stock unique, hard-to-find instruments.
-
The Music Man: A smaller boutique store known for its knowledgeable staff and focus on specific guitar styles and brands.
2. Bass Guitars:
Similar to guitar stores, Guitar Center and Arizona Music are excellent places to find a bass guitar. Arizona Music, in particular, often has a solid selection of boutique bass brands that are harder to find elsewhere in the city.
3. Violins:
- Southwest Strings: A specialist shop focusing solely on string instruments, particularly violins, violas, and cellos. They offer a wide range of instruments at various price points, from student models to professional-grade instruments. They also provide repair and restoration services.
4. Ukuleles:
Many of the larger music stores in Phoenix stock ukuleles, but smaller, independent shops might have more unique options and a greater focus on ukulele-specific accessories and learning materials. Check local music shops for more specialized stock.
Woodwinds
5. Flutes:
Southwest Strings and other music stores likely carry flutes, but contacting them beforehand is advised to confirm availability. Professional flute players might find it useful to visit a shop specializing in woodwinds or order online from a reputable supplier.
6. Clarinets:
Similar to flutes, larger music retailers will usually have clarinets, but for more specialized needs, contacting local music stores or specialized woodwind shops is recommended.
7. Saxophones:
Saxophones are often found in larger music stores, like Guitar Center. However, checking smaller, independent shops for used instruments and potentially better deals is also worth considering.
8. Oboes:
Oboes are a more specialized instrument and might require contacting a specialized woodwind shop, possibly ordering one online from a reputable source. Large music stores will less likely have them readily available.
Brass
9. Trumpets:
Guitar Center and other major music stores generally stock trumpets, but checking local music shops could provide better personalized service and potentially uncover a better deal.
10. Trombones:
Similar to trumpets, larger music stores are a starting point for trombones, but smaller shops might have unique instruments or used options.
11. French Horns:
French horns are less common, so contacting specialized brass instrument retailers or ordering online from a reputable source is the most effective approach.
Percussion
12. Drums (Acoustic & Electronic):
-
Guitar Center: Offers a wide selection of drum kits, electronic drums, and percussion accessories.
-
Drum Center: (If one exists in Phoenix, verify) A dedicated drum shop would offer expert advice and a specialized selection.
13. Keyboard Percussion (Marimba, Xylophone):
These instruments are less common and usually require ordering online or contacting specialist musical instrument retailers.
Keyboards & Electronic Instruments
14. Pianos (Acoustic & Digital):
- Arizona Piano: (If a specialized piano store exists, verify) A dedicated piano store would have a wider selection, including various makes and models.
- Guitar Center: Often has digital pianos and keyboards available.
15. Keyboards:
Guitar Center and other large music stores are good places to start for keyboards.
16. Synthesizers:
Guitar Center will likely be a good starting point for synthesizers, though smaller shops may have more specialized options.
17. Electronic Drums:
Guitar Center is a reliable option, but checking online retailers for specific models might be useful.
Other Instruments
18. Harmonicas:
Harmonicas are readily available in most music stores, even smaller ones.
19. Hand Percussion Instruments (Bongos, Congas):
Guitar Center and other larger music stores will often stock these.
Tips for Buying Musical Instruments in Phoenix
-
Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, physically try the instrument before purchasing. This is especially crucial for instruments like guitars, pianos, and woodwinds.
-
Consider Your Budget: Musical instruments range in price from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. Set a realistic budget before you start shopping.
-
Read Reviews: Before making a purchase, read online reviews of both the instrument and the retailer.
-
Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions of the sales staff. Their expertise can help you make an informed decision.
-
Consider Lessons: Learning to play an instrument is easier with proper instruction. Consider enrolling in lessons before or after purchasing your instrument.
This guide provides a starting point for your search for the perfect musical instrument in Phoenix. Remember to explore different retailers and don't be afraid to ask questions to ensure you find the instrument that best suits your needs and musical aspirations. Happy playing!
