I’ve worked with several music stores throughout the state of Alabama- both as a personal musician & as a music director in the schools- & my experience with Art’s Music has been professional, helpful, & quick. Their service is wonderful, & they are knowledgeable in many school band & orchestra areas. I highly recommend using them for your instrument needs.
We aren’t musicians, and they didn’t run us out when my wife put her lack of talent on display when she strummed the banjo. For that, I give them 5 stars.
Staff is always friendly and helpful.
Nice; they’ll order in for u
Very helpful and friendly
Wonderful customer service
You should think about buying an instrument from another source, this place is a money pit, will find ways to charge you more than you should have to pay. They have in-house repair but will charge alot for any normal wear and tear, when you turn in a rental instrument after just 4 months rental. Ended up spending around $500. Should have bought an instrument elsewhere and would have owned it for that amount. Wish I had listened to my intuition. Lesson learned.
No help prices to high
Very overpriced! I understand small business vs online shopping and major companies, but come on!
4. Bailey Brothers Music Company
Address: 4673 US-280 Suite # 7, Birmingham, AL 35242 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Went to look for Double bass drum pedals. The initial phone call, drums guy was polite, explained and answered questions in a manner that didnt feel rushed or annoyed. Off to the store. The Drums guy showed me their selection and prices, explained a little about each set then backed off and let me make a decision without the classic Guitar Center upsell attempt “just buy this one because [ insert cheesy sell line here] “. Dude that spoke volumes about this store, they werent watching people like police, *cough* Guitar center *cough* they have a better product than other stores in particular the Mapex $119 double bass set has better reviews and looks more sturdy than the Mapex double bass pedals sold at GC for $129 on sale at time of this review for $119. Then on to sticks, again took time to understand what i wanted and what i was desiring to recommend the right product and not the top dollar one! Now off to the front counter, set my stuff down at the reg and told them i was going to wait because i also needed guitar strings. I naturally went for Ernie Ball, but the cashier guy began to tell me about different brand he uses, explained why and also hit all the issues with strings i was having on the head. Its nice to go to music store where people are actually musicians and know what theyre talking about and selling. I definitely will be back. AND i definitely will tell anyone who asks about a music store about them!
Always very friendly and service oriented.
Waylon is awesome. He’s knowledgeable, and clearly enjoys what he does. Always hooks me up with the right equipment.
Good service. Knowledgeable staff. Wish there was one closer to us!
Helpful and kind! Will be back to see them soon.
good staff well organize not bad products
I came in here the other day and they were incredibly overbearing and checked in on me every 30 seconds. From the second I walked in they were all up in my face and insisted on providing an address and phone number whenever I paid which I fully expect to be sold somewhere. I don’t know if they’re struggling to keep the lights on or something but the amount of customer service was way too much and came across as pushy and rude. Literally just let me shop.
Recently brought a used instrument to these guys to be cleaned and conditioned. They charged $230 and I’m not really sure what they did beyond $40 worth of repairing. I even priced the individual parts myself and they cost a total of $23. The instrument was very dirty and they didn’t even do a good or complete job of wiping it down. We didn’t get any paperwork explicitly stating what they were going to do so we can’t really argue the point. The inside of the instrument wasn’t even touched during cleaning because there is obvious dust and grime that was there when we gave it to these guys.
We also bought a mouthpiece for the instrument, I previously priced it at $10 online and it was $35 at this place. An outrageous markup.
All of this was after agreeing to a monthly payment for an instrument only to be informed the day before it was needed that they didn’t have any in stock so we had to scramble to find a different option. Because of this, they also didn’t send us a cleaning kit for the instrument that had been fully paid for.
I will be looking for another place for any other instrument needs.
manager and owner very racist!
5. Highland Music
Address: 3000 Clairmont Ave, Birmingham, AL 35205 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
I’ve been a patron of Highland Music since 2005. Almost 20 years later, I’d still rather drive 30 minutes for any of my musical needs rather than visit the Guitar Center within walking distance of my house. Don is a great guy and honest business owner. He will beat amazon’s price on anything in stock. Highland Music has two of the best music repairmen I’ve ever encountered: Harold, who works on guitars, and Sam, who works on amps (and also builds Samamps, one of which I have used exclusively for over 10 years), have been providing me with the best customer service I could imagine. They fix everything and they do it quick and for a very fair price. I took music lessons when I was a kid with Robert, which prepared me for majoring in music in college. All the people who work there, including my good friend and extremely talented guitarist Mark Kimbrell, are just good people and always a pleasure to see. This store is local gem and Birmingham would not be the same without it. I would recommend you support local small businesses and go there for all your music shop needs whether its buying, selling, lessons, repairs, etc. Whatever you need, they can help you.
Sign is difficult to see from the road.
Hard to imagine this town without Highland Music. It seems like it’s been here forever, and it impresses on so many levels. Need a tech? See Harold. Need a custom-built amp or guitar? They can fix you up here. Want a new Fender or Gibson? They have that. Need lightly used gear? It abounds here. Strings, parts, accessories…all the stuff you need, they have. This is THE place traveling musicians stop by when they are in town, and there’s a reason for that. You should shop there, too.
Cool selection of stuff, lots of vintage amps and guitars
Great selection of vintage guitars and amplifiers. New equipment also.
I left this store just a moment ago after being asked to leave because I had not yet made a purchase. I had originally intended to pick up a few packs of strings for my acoustic, now I’m glad I had not. I stopped by today with my friend who had told me about this store. He has been a customer of this store before and had always told me the staff here was friendly and that they have great service. We spent roughly 45 minutes in the store before the man at the counter, whom we had previously overheard talking to another customer about us saying, “What’s the deal with these two jokebags?” told us to get out of the store because we had not yet bought anything. We promptly left the store and I soon received a text from my friend saying that he had gone back inside to try to clear things up with the man that was working the counter and he told me that the man said he was not feeling well and is looking to close the store early. So if his goal is to minimize the business they get to close up early, he is doing very well.
About what you’d expect. Pretentious, unhelpful, and offended that you’d dare shop in their overpriced thrift store. But they’ve been in business forever and they ain’t changing.
Tried to get my guitars worked on here multiple times. First time was an 8 string, guy said “I don’t like black guitars they scratch too easily” and then rubbed a cloth with steel wool fibers over it and scratched the guitar. GEE I wonder why! Had a pickup swap done on another guitar, put a scratch on it that went through the paint. Not only that, but he took it upon himself to do a full “set up” when I did not ask him to now I have buzz everywhere and it plays worse than it did before, then charged me for it. Oh and the pickups are also out of phase. Sorry, but that’s it. No more chances. Goodbye.
6. Guitar Center
Address: 1694 Montgomery Hwy, Hoover, AL 35216 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Great place for all music interest.Great staff. Very friendly.
I have purchased 100% of my guitar stuff from Guitar Center Hoover, most of it from Zack. He has never treated me like the beginner that I am, but always listens to understand what I am trying to do so that he can help me purchase the right stuff, and has also talked me out of buying the wrong stuff more than once.
I also take my lessons there from Brandon. Brandon is always willing to help me work on whatever I am struggling with. He takes the time that I need – sometimes our lessons run a little over. He is not a clock watcher.
I have huge respect & appreciation for the people at this store. Me & my money will not go anywhere else.
Had a great experience!!!! All Dave, Brandon, and John were a great help I would recommend all my music friends to come shop here!!
Good phone conversation.
Exelente
Great place, love to see what I’m buying,hold it and play it.
Went in with my 2 year old son to find him a drumset for Xmas. We began to test the drums and the associate immediately stopped us. Apparently we were too loud. The white kid that played before us was never asked to stop. I thought we were moving past this kinda stuff. Obviously black dollars don’t matter. Needless to say, we won’t be back.
I visited the Hoover, Al. location today around noon. I received no greeting nor anyone asking if I needed help. I can see one reason they are in bankruptcy. Their customer service flat out sucks! No wonder so many people have turned to Sweetwater. I ended up leaving without making a purchase. I was looking to purchase either a Gretch or Epiphone hollow body electric and case.
Didn’t get greeted till about 20 minutes into it. And then had to ask them for the assistance I needed. So never was greeted
7. Homewood Musical Instrument Co
Address: 1712 28th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
I’ve never dealt with someone so rude over the phone. The owner tried to guilt me with sarcasm and acted like victim when I questioned a price. Full story: I asked to order a cello string. All was going well (owner answered questions about speed of shipping and availability of the string), but then he quoted a price ($81) that was far above what other shops charge. I said respectfully that “I’ve purchased the string for $45 at other walk-in shops” and he became sarcastic and argumentative with me, claiming he was “holding my hand” through the process, and said “Well, I have to pay $35 for this string so what do YOU think is fair for ME to make? $15? What is 35 + 15, huh? Ohhh, maybe $50 is more than you can afford?” A simple, “well this is my price” would have been fine as a response from him, but I felt disrespected so I hung up and decided I’m never going to spend a dime Homewood Musical Instrument Co. I advise everyone else to steer clear of this shop and the guy who owns it.
Love this place. Meet the father and sons. They all were very helpful. I made several visits before deciding. No pressure. My second purchase from Ellis Piano. The church also made a purchase from them.
We loved Ellis piano! They go above and beyond and far as customer service! Very kind people!
Very knowledgeable staff
Nice, helpful staff
my experience was questionable. they decide who they want …
The staff was friendly, and they have tons of pianos and other equipment to choose from. The space is enormous, and is fun to just browse. They also do repairs. Call or stop by for any musical needs. Would go again.
10. Music & Arts
Address: 4673 US-280 Suite 7, Birmingham, AL 35242 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Excellent customer service! They were so helpful with fixing my son’s guitar and went above and beyond to make sure his guitar was fixed and tuned! Adina and Tim both helped us so much and were especially kind!
11. Mason Music
Address: 2903 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Another 5 stars. Bruce and his people took care of the when I was in a pinch (and he was already busy) . Great people, not to mention an awesome shop with some nice guitars
Awesome store. They are super friendly and know their stuff. It’s great for buying new or used guitars as well as accessories. They will also fix your old one up to sound new again. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
This guitar store is in the heart of Trussville, the staff is friendly and they know musical gear, just by talking to them, they know the language… this is my second time in here, I bought me an acoustic ( Alveraz) this thing plays like a dream, me and acoustic’s do not get along, especially with my short fat fingers…been trying all the name brands and this guitar is full sounding, great tone and almost like a wizard neck…This guitar will be a great addition to my arsenal of guitars…check this place out if you want great prices, and great atmosphere….wished I knew this store was here before now… thank you
Have a decent variety of all different kinds of cords and instruments and the guitars rule great prices too. And the lady in there is always super sweet
Nice people. Nice selection of guitars and gear. They have a lot of strings to choose from.
Nice selection of new and used guitars. Needs a jam space though..
I will never set foot in this place again. Not that they will care. Thought I would give it another chance after several years. Nothing has changed so now I know for sure.
I bought a guitar for $2,875 from this shop online and they listed it as mint condition. I had to take it to a local luthier to have the frets polished because they were so dirty the guitar was unplayable. The shop refused to even split the cost ($50), wow! Incredible.
WAS our trusted source for guitars and gear.
Took in a Seagull acoustic to have the battery and strings replaced at the end of December 2020(only having someone else do it because of the value of the guitar).
The battery went dead MUCH faster than normal (usually takes 6 months). We are very aware that leavi g guitars plugged in drai s the battery. That was NOT the case here. We took it out and found they had installed a promotional Progressive Insurance smoke detector battery in it. Instead of what we are used to getting, Energizer or Duracell. I called and was told that we should have told them we wanted a better battery. It cost us more than $30 for the strings and a battery replacement. No offer to replace it. The lady said they just use whatever is “handy”. I don’t pay for what’s handy. So much for being Pro’s. If the lady had simply apologized, that would have been the end of it. I wasn’t looking for anything other than to let them know that a substandard battery had been installed. When we brought it in initially, we asked for the strings to be changed and the battery replaced. No one told us at that time that we weren’t being charged for the battery, just that what we asked for was $30, if I had been advised of that I would have either asked for a better battery or brought my own. I hung up when her tone told me how disgusted she was that I called with a problem. As for my other reviews of other businesses you mentioned, I review honestly and fairly. If you notice, I have many very positive reviews of several companies in the area. I managed customer service depts with 4 Fortune 500 Companies in my career. Again, I wasn’t asking for anything except courtesy, which was unfortunately lacking. The lady I spoke with had a “how dare you complain” kind of attitude. (modified for clarity based on the reply from the company)
13. Family Dollar
Address: 4341 Bessemer Super Hwy, Bessemer, AL 35020 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Employees are super nice here. Only flaw is there is no shopping carts.
Friendly fast service!
Cheaper.
They suck. So rude. I would rate 0 stars. This Store is crappy. Employees r rude. They nasty. And like to run their mouth at the customers when they should not. I hate that family dollar is represented so badly. it’s a shame that employee do not know how to act. Even some of the MANAGERS. r rude. J. S.
Why do we lock the door 30minutes before closing time? I love the workers just not sure about the time the closing times
Employees has no respect for the customers talking and cussing in front of us abt there business who did what why and how come. It’s sad
14. Bates Brothers Recording
Address: 3427 Davey Allison Blvd SUITE 101, Hueytown, AL 35023 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Love my visits here. I can’t recall walking out without finding a great deal. Will definitely continue shopping here.
Prices sales clean friendly staff
Good prices
Found some awesome deals on some brand name merchandise… leather boots $250.00 retail paid $6.99 for them… awesome place to shop for bargains… Also got some brand name cloths at ridiculously discounted prices…
I got a Cuisinart digital toaster dirt cheap and a Black & Decker automatic coffee maker that was like new for 6 bucks. It’s cyclical. Being there at the right time is key as it is with most thrift stores.
I always find really great things for little to nothing. I love a good bargain. But, I found their prices to go up a little.
Too expensive
Retail prices
Las personas que trabajan hay , son groseras y racistas siempre cuando un latino va a pagar te dicen que ese precio no es , le quitan la etiqueta y ellos te suben los precios y siempre pasa eso ,con lama cara te atienden
Manager is bit of a idiot is convenient as-is the only second hand thrift store in the area have found some bargains there Avoid the manager..see something you like buy it
16. B&C Music
Address: 314C Billy B Dyar Blvd, Boaz, AL 35957 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
If you’re in the area I’d highly recommend stopping by over going to a big chain like guitar center. They’re honest, affordable, and extremely helpful. I believe they may even teach lessons in the back room. I forgot to ask because I live in Huntsville so I was just glad I was already in the area. 5/5 will go back next time I’m in the area
I’ve know the owner Connie a long time good business. And a good woman
Kind and knowledgeable staff
Good site
Nice folks
Great little music shop. A good place to look for a starter instrument or replace an existing one.
I felt watched and rushed.Two women were working there that day, one was very friendly. I did not feel comfortable asking questions and also it was so hot in there.
Awful place with cheap brands and overpriced / broken used instruments.
The people are not friendly, the merchandise is overpriced, some equipment is not even new (and it is damaged) although they don’t disclose that information, and getting around in a wheelchair is next to impossible. The lady at the register didn’t know anything about the equipment. It is definitely worth the drive to go somewhere else.
17. Dollar General
Address: 3011 9th Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
My favorite store for household items! Sorry, $5.00 coupons only for Saturday.
Reasonable
There’s only one person at the register and sometimes the line gets long and takes alot of your time when your in a hurry, other than than that the store is clean and staff are friendly.
They never stay in stock
No Order in the Store Walking the Store Walk waywas unsafe Neatness was a mouse
I got there at 8:50pm and a very big, tall male manager was standing outside telling customers that they were getting ready to close. He saw that I had a DG shopping bag and as I approached the door he said, “Hey sweetie. We’re getting ready to close and we’re not doing any more returns tonight.” I told him that the Dollar General website lists this location as being open until 10pm and he said “No they don’t” in a very condescending manner. Ummm, YES they do, sir.. and this “sweetie” brought the receipts (proof). I will NEVER visit this DG location again. EVER.
18. Dollar General
Address: 2417 19th St N, Bessemer, AL 35020 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
I really am not fond of this location, but as it is most convenient for me and my dollar general needs, seems it is my choice. The staff are generally rude, have gotten out of date contents on many occasions, and the parking lot is nasty, along with a peddler that lurks in the parking lot begging people for money as soon as you park.
Great selections of simple food items.
Poorly stocked, poorly organized. A mess.
Rude cashier
Poor check out experience backed up.
19. Emiron Music Inc. dba The Yellow Guitar
Address: 806 Bank St NE, Decatur, AL 35601 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
Love this place! They are always super helpful with getting you what you need.
Friendly staff, great deals on guitars of all kinds.
This is a fantastic shop. I highly recommend them.
Its a music store in Decatur lol Last of its breed at this point
Little out of place win I went and ask about a instrument
I checked the website for the address, the website said currently open closes at 5:00 or whatever. I needed guitar strings so I decided to make the drive which is an hour each way. Get there, park and walked to the store. “Closed” !!! Sign said they are moving. Guess I learned to call in advance.
Rude did not want to wait on customer like it was bothering them
Exelente
There’s one guy there (Chet ? Chester?) who is really nice. The older gentleman comes across like he’d rather be in his office or something rather than dealing with the public. Seems he can’t keep young and talented help either, which may also be a result of his extremely unapproachable personality. I agree with the other reviewer … Decatur needs another music store.
It’s music for crying out loud … the atmosphere does not lend itself to the encouragement of instrument try out. It always seems so cold and uninviting. Not to mention that the selection is poor. No used instruments either.
20. Guitar Gallery Inc, The Guitar Gallery Guitars and Records, Guitar Gallery Records
Address: 309 Hargrove E Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 , Brighton , Alabama , United States
The staff is very knowledgeable and eager to help you understand your options
Great guys, and the prices are good. Easy to get in and out of also.
Did a great job on my guitar it is like new. The charge was minimal.
Didn’t have what I needed or wanted I guess i shouldn’t be so harsh it being Virus season but still..
I dropped by to look at some used Guitars and was greeted appropriately. I didn’t find what I was looking for but the guys were feuendly
Knowledgeable staff. Good guitar selection
Horrible I wasn’t even allowed to approach the merchandise cases where I could see the items on display.
The person who answers the phone is freakishly weird. Everything I ever ask do they have he says he doesn’t know what that is. PLEASE FIRE THIS NONCHALANT MAN. He creeps me out and does not know anything about music. Please get another worker gosh
Tried to give a used bass with a part of a fret missing
