Wonderful local music store. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. While small, they always have exactly what I’m looking for for my woodwind supplies.
Great teacher
It was great
Grandson in orchestra needed a special double bass book. They had it, yeah!!! Theg are super friendly!
They do not have much of a guitar selection, but they do have other things.
Just ok
A very disappointing experience recently – used to rent from them for school and take lessons there many years ago. Recently took in several brass instruments for some cleaning and repairs, and the communication was horrible – they didn’t tell me what was going on with my instruments, I had to call several times to figure out what was going on, and then after almost two months they still hadn’t had any of the work done. I finally got them back yesterday, and they weren’t even satisfactorily cleaned. Whoever does their brass work, they are not up to snuff. Go somewhere else.
If you want to speak with someone condescending, rude, and extremely stuck up, you’re calling the right place. I was calling to get information to rent an instrument for my sons new orchestra program and I was not only insulted by an employee, but the owner herself. If you are not an uppity brat, this isn’t the place for you.
Not answering your phones while your shop should be open is a horrible way to run a business. There’s no option to leave a message either.
2. Alden’s Piano LLC
Address: 596 Thorndale Rd, Park City, IL 60085 , Park City , Illinois , United States
They were very capable and efficient. Showed up exactly when they said they would, and moved the piano with attention to keeping the instrument in good shape, but still quickly. Delivered right on time. My next piano move is with them. Thanks for a job well done.
Nate and his team made this move as easy as possible, and we could not be happier with our experience from start to finish.
Very fast, polite and efficient when moving my piano up a floor. Thank you!
They moved a piano for me. Unfortunately we could not get in the new place yet and the piano had to be delivered to the garage where it still sits.
The movers were fast and efficient. Thankful for their attention to detail.
Guys did a good job were quick and respectful.
3. BakYard Studios
Address: Belvidere Rd #2835, Waukegan, IL 60085 , Park City , Illinois , United States
My experience here is nothing less than excellency.. this man can listen to a bar.. and listen to your beat and know the bpm.
He is a surge when it comes to mix and master.. very impressed.. he was patient and had the energy going.
My second time going and I’m going back again.
Engineer at RnD studios is professional and knows the ins and outs to make the perfect hit fit to your style. Only studio I go to in Lake County area
5. Guitar Center
Address: 143 Skokie Valley Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035 , Park City , Illinois , United States
Big thanks to nick i was able to find everything i needed. Went in for a trade in and with his advice im happy with the pedal i left with. He went above and beyond to check and let me know my original product i wanted was on back order for months.
It’s a great place, you can find everything you want and try it over there. They had an special discount for the 4th of July and it was perfect to get new toys.
My 17-year-old son has been playing on a Squier Bullet Stratocaster and a Jasmine S35 Natural Acoustic Guitar for the past 8 years and decided it was time to upgrade. We came to trade in a few musical instruments/equipment and to test out new guitars. Upon our arrival, Jovany approached us to assist with trade-ins, listened to what my son was looking for, and provided him with various options within his budget and goals. My son spent about two hours testing out Fenders and Epiphone guitars. He then debated between an Epiphone Les Paul Traditional Pro IV Limited-Edition Electric Guitar and Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Quilt Top Limited-Edition Electric Guitar. George at the guitar department was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and helpful with my son deciding. He was not forceful and allowed my son to take all the time he needed. My son ended up getting the Standard 60s Quilt Top Limited-Edition. George also recommended the Blackstar ID Core 10 V3 10W Guitar Amp and assisted in strap adjustments and cleaning. My son was incredibly happy.
I want to thank Jovany and George for going above and beyond and taking the time to explain anything we had questions about. The store was busy, but my son and I appreciate your efforts in assisting us. We will definitely be back!
Average to be expected experience
Nice store, staff were helpful, but true to form lack inventory due to our lovely pandemic.
Lots available
I purchased a guitar which they didn’t have in stock and shipped overnight to their store and charged me $43 for shipping, when I went to pick it up, the Guitar was damaged upon opening, I asked for replacement, but they couldn’t find another one. However I ended up buying few accessories and left. After few days When I checked my bank statement, I realized that they didn’t refund my shipping cost that they charged me for the damaged guitar which was shipped and refunded (Attached photo of my receipt). So, if you purchase a product from them and it’s damaged even before it arrives to you, they are charging their customers for their own mistakes and their defective products. It’s Ridiculous and Embarrassing for a brand like them to steal like that.
Very rude and inconsiderate. Not helpful whatsoever whatev especially tim
These stars are for the manager Josh. Otherwise, every employee either doesn’t know about guitars, or knows enough to be dismissive. I have a passion for music and I was excited to get a new guitar and the experience that comes along with it. Every employee there did their absolute best to make sure that DID NOT happen. Tim in particular was very unattentive and condescending. I visited the store 6 different occasions for various problems, each time I would wait for at least 10 minutes before any employee would acknowledge I was there (there was max 3 customers in the store each time). Overall terrible experience. The customer service was abysmal and I’m glad I will not have to shop there ever again.
6. Family Piano Co
Address: 114 S Genesee St, Waukegan, IL 60085 , Park City , Illinois , United States
Thank you very much for helping me figure out what to do with an old organ that was not working. Thank you for helping me recycle the parts I needed to and also forhaving a place to bring the speakers. I really appreciate it.
A great selections of pianos and music. They also have an excellent area for recitals.
Business is family owned and run from the beginning. Our experience was outstanding from the initial phone call, to understanding our needs and budget, to making quality recommendations, and finally making a purchase. They really worked with us in all aspects to ensure we were happy. I cannot say enough good things about Family Piano and their staff, they will not disappoint when you’re ready to make a purchase. Thank you Alice and Brendan!
The service is amazing.
I’m Sofia Gorodetskaya director program Fun w music June 10 my students had a concert, Family piano is a wonderful place , great people help a lot and make video for every students. Thank you very much Family Piano Alice,Brandon,Tony and Drew. Some students buy a very good piano w so good price . Thank you very much.
If you want a wide selection of brand new Kawai pianos and a great deal this is NOT the place to go. I repeat…. This is NOT the place to go. Brendan tried to take advantage of me when I was in search of a brand new Kawai GL10 or K500. I had a few pianos I could trade in. One of them being a hand built Charles R Walter in pristine condition. He thought I did not know how much trade in value my hand built in U.S.A Charles R Walter had so tried to low ball me. I talked to other dealers (non local) and they all offered well over double what Brendan offered for my Charles R Walter as trade in credit for a new Kawai piano. I already knew the value of my Charles R Walter and showed Brendan how two other Kawai dealers had offered more than double what he offered so he magically added one grand trade in offer to the Charles R Walter which was still much less than what two other dealers offered.
I wanted to support their local Kawai dealer since they are nearby and but I got a bad feeling when talking with him. He is a very shady salesman. On the day we had scheduled to go buy a brand new KAWAI K500 he messaged me cancelling since he got covid. I emailed him wishing him a speedy recovery and he simply ignored. Extremely unprofessional. I then decided to drive out to Cordogan’s PianoLand in Geneva (much further) and they matched what other dealers had offered for my trade in and gave me a much better deal on a brand new Kawai grand piano. Glad brendan cancelled since I was able to find a much better dealer that provided a more pleasant and transparent experience. If you want a great experience go to Cordogan’s PianoLand.
Terrible lugar!!! No tienen repeto por el tiempo de la gente y son poco profesionales NO LO RECOMIENDO
7. Koelle John W Piano Technician
Address: 925 Elsie Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031 , Park City , Illinois , United States
We have used Julian for years. Does a great job, has a fantastic ear, and a great person to boot. Highly recommended
I made an appointment about 2 weeks ago. He’s been here before on a neighbor’s recommendation.
He asked for a half-hour window. I agreed.
He said about an hour to tune. I figured about that long.
So, tail end of the time, and no tuner. I thought maybe traffic (it’s about an hour away) or parking.
Comes after time, and I call the number I had. Truth? I don’t even *remember* the last time i was spoken to SO RUDELY. Especially NOT at 150.00 for about an hours’ work! And this woman identified herself as his wife?? How do you get to be an older person and NOT KNOW how to politely answer the phone? Especially when it’s your husband’s business?? He’s such a nice guy, too. He doesn’t seem to deserve the vitriol. I KNOW I don’t.
Seriously? If you’re NOT personable on the phone, either because you weren’t taught right or just feel entitled or something…do your clients and husband a favor: GET AN INTERN tuner to pick up the phone!
Which was a waste of my time and yours. For an hours’ drive? ONE way? Really??
To not HAVE or NOT USE a cell phone in 2019 is JUST awful business. You get there or on the way, you text, call SOMETHING. I’ve lived here 47 years. I guarantee you’ll have at least one light to contact a client.
I was literally in front of the house with my dog so I’d have that done. To just wander off, no call, no text is UNBELIEVABLY unprofessional. They OUGHT TO teach that in music school and tuner school: “How to professionally answer the telephone.”
Must not want the business, I guess. But then BE HONEST. Don’t waste my time. Don’t answer the phone and bring attitude to your former customers. That’s just STUPID. Because you know they’ll come right here and tell the whole truth before you even get home.
Very angry. Never again.
I have well over 30,000 views of my reviews. Just saying.
8. Austin Music Center
Address: 6815 W North Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302 , Park City , Illinois , United States
My family and I have been going here for years.
Outstanding service, great prices, great conversation.
My nephew plays several instruments. We’ve visited here to have his guitar string replaced, and we purchased a used trumpet. The gentleman in the shop is very knowledgeable and friendly. I’ve had great experiences here and I look forward to visiting again. Definitely stop by for your instrument needs.
Great deals
Austin Music Center is a great neighborhood music store. It’s like the
Old school ma&pa stores of years gone
by. It has all things musical rite n our
Neighborhood. U no convenience ha ha
And real friendly people 2 accommodate your needs,musically that is. Go check it
Out 4 urself, don’t just take my word 4 it.
Althought u could; my word is better than
Gold Pepople!!! just kiddin. The corner of
Austin&North Ave is where u’ll find this
jewel. Peace b wit y’all. Bye
I have had some good service from them in the past, but recently I have had a few problems, but nothing to big. I found cheaper ways to get the same thing I get from here but I still come for them for repairs and such.
Cheap instruments, overpriced in my opinion.
9. CC Studio
Address: 2835 Belvidere Rd Ste 307, Waukegan, IL 60085 , Park City , Illinois , United States
I’ve been renting a bass from these guys for years. The quality of the instrument is excellent and the Rent-to-Buy option is probably the best deal out there.
Customer service overall is excellent. Staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, and very willing to take time to troubleshoot issues and talk through decisions.
Cannot recommend these guys enough.
Amazing service! We have been customers for about 7 years. I can’t tell you how many times they have helped with my son’s instruments in a hurry. They always go out of their way to provide excellent service. I purchased a cello elsewhere, they were able to repair it and leave it in great playing condition. I was so impressed. Any other instrument that my son plays, we can always get repaired here. They are definitely an asset to the community. I’ve never had a bad experience here. I highly recommend them!!
If you are looking to buy a string instrument, you should absolutely buy it here. Unmatched service and maintenance at a good price. Best experience I’ve ever had buying a cello.
I have had great success with Kagan.& Gaines..
Since my daughter started Violin back in 2006
They were able to help me with a 1/2 size , a 3/4 violin and now my daughter is in a full size French made violin.
Excellent service and knowledge of violins.
They have helped my daughter become the great young violinist she is, as this is where it all started for my Alexis.
Having a great selection of violins to choose from.
I gave this place a bad review after dealing with a younger employee But when the manager was alerted to the situation (A few days later) it was dealt with fairly. Kagan and Gains has a long time reputation in their neighborhood of being the first choice for musical lessons of any instrument and Fair pricing on instruments and accessories. It may not be the best place to shop for a new guitar But they can handle all your needs afterwords. I recommend them for all your strings, Guitar cases, Band instruments, ect. You will find all of them are of good quality and pricing.
Nice and helpful staff, but they require you to give them your phone number to make a purchase. No thanks. Took my business elsewhere.
I hate to agree with the user below who complained of a dishonest experience, but we are going through the same. I’ve read all of the other 5 star reviews and notice a pattern: it seems that for violin and stringed instruments, this is a great place. For renting brass/woodwind instruments via their monopoly with the school districts, they are subpar and dishonest. We should have just purchase a used instrument which would have resulted in us obtaining a superior instrument at, I am not exaggerating, 1/4 the total cost. We just had to call them to stop processing our credit card when we noticed we had been paying an abnormally long time on my daughter’s VERY USED, VERY DENTED saxophone (4 years!). We were “reassured” that, coincidentally, they were just going to call us as well as our payments happened to be completed. Yet they have no records of all the payments that we made, and are asking us to provide payment records going back to 2017 to “prove” how much we have paid in total. Luckily for us, we can easily provide them as they have all been made on the same credit card for years. We are also disputing the amount owed as our daughter’s original “nicer” model saxophone broke, was taken in for repairs, and she was given a loaner, student-model, older and dented sax. Her other one was never repaired and instead she’s just had this one forever. We were told at the time it would be “worked out.” Now they want us to pay the same amount as they were going to charge for the initial instrument to keep this replacement instrument permanently, as they also claim to have NO record that any switch was ever made or that the original saxophone was ever brought in for repairs. Typically, I endeavor to support neighborhood shops, but not when their record keeping is straight out of Mayberry. This is taking a lot of our time and energy to sort out, and we’ve ultimately laid out over $2300 to own an instrument that I have found at multiple music stores online for around $600 and under. We understand that renting the own is typically more expensive, but this feels like being swindled in every way. Extremely disappointed. My husband has been playing music for over 40 years – he also used to play saxophone – and his mother is a professional classical musician. He is used to dealing with all sorts of music shops and has never had an experience like this one.
Great store! Never knew there were so many kinds of ukuleles. First time seeing an instrument made of mango wood. John was super helpful in explaining their differences. Ended up buying a tenor Ohana. Definitely will come back for one of their free Sunday lessons/ jam sessions. Thank you John!
Can’t thank Matt and his staff enough for helping me get my new Kala Elite KOA-CT-T ukulele. After searching several of the nationwide music stores online with no luck, I found one in stock at Aloha City Ukes. This was a big purchase site unseen (besides the pictures and videos online) and I was able to call and talk to Matt about the uke, ask questions and feel much more at the ease with the purchase. The ukulele in the pics is exactly what I received. Matt and his team were able to help me use 2 payment methods so I could use a visa cash card. Ordered the uke on 12/14 and had it shipped to me in Florida with no issues by 12/17 and had it in plenty of time for Christmas. The sound and tone is pure and incredible. I am very happy with my purchase and wish we had a store like Aloha City Ukes down here in Florida. I will definitely use you guys again and recommend to any uke players I meet. Thanks!!!
Just to let you know store sells online too. Excellent prices and fast shipping. Also, tested the customer service when small portion of order was incorrect. Received wrong size of ukulele strings. Quick email and replacement strings were on way. Will buy from them again.
Bought my first uke here. The customer service was excellent and equaled the quality of my beautiful sounding new uke. Will be buying from Aloha City Ukes again. They also set it up.
This is an update add-on. Took my Lanikai Flame Maple baritone uke to an acoustic jam session last night (no amps allowed)and was floored when my uke could be heard over 5 other acoustic guitar players, Cajon and violin. Excellent instrument for accompaniment for my song choices. “ABSOLUTELY MAKE SURE you are aware of their small timeline for returns. My second uke same brand but tenor turned out to be a bummer of an experience, plus I had to beg for a refund after 7 days. The uke looked like it had been strung with thick cables and looked as if it was strung by a child. I have NEVER had problems barre ing but it was IMPOSSIBLE on this uke. It was touch and go as to whether Id get a refund plus I had to pay $45 to send it back. Wont be shopping Aloha City ukes again. First time was a charm. Second purchase was a nightmare.
Got there 10 minutes to 4 but they closed early. I gave 2 stars for the online store.
Would give zero stars if I could. I’m very disappointed with how they treated my father. He bought a ukulele here to increase his skills & knowledge after a long & hard battle with cancer. The owner was kind during the sale, but his demeanor rapidly changed after it. My father tried asking questions afterward, such as how he could get the most out of his instrument.. to which the owner replies with “just don’t play it.” I’m genuinely disgusted to know that this is how the owner treats their customers after a sale. I’m in such disbelief by how manipulative and unprofessional this business is. I will be letting everyone we know in our music/ukulele community that they should never come here. I hope the owner learns to be kind to all after this.
13. North Shore Music
Address: 405 1/2 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091 , Park City , Illinois , United States
This is an awesome place to improve your skills in music. The owner really knows his stuff and the staff is always helpful when it comes to rescheduling lessons. Can’t recommend enough.
Great place to take guitar, drums or bass lessons! My Son’s been in 3 sessions here and has progressed immensely.
My 13 year-old son has been taking drum lessons at North Shore Music for 2 years. He’s also in the studio’s band camp which places him with other students to form a rock band. They perform in public around Wilmette. He absolutely loves it and so do we parents. Alejandro and his staff are terrific!
14. Walmart Supercenter
Address: 3900 Fountain Square Pl, Waukegan, IL 60085 , Park City , Illinois , United States
I love to shop here because most items are available with a great selection
Nice
I got what I needed
Shopping at night no line, not overcrowded.Get in and out.
Shopping was fine, but leaving was a chore. NO check out lines open, self checkout only and the line was 15 minutes or longer. WOW! What is happening to customer service. Feel like if I am doing all the work, I should be getting a discount. MAN!!
Big but meat and bakery i visited not impress. I
They usually have only a couple lines open. Takes me 10 min for me to pick up what I need but 15 min to pay. Customer service is also not the best.
Bad staff work there
15. Hill Piano
Address: Gurnee, IL 60031 , Park City , Illinois , United States