Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Store for Instruments and Rentals in Normal, IL
Founded in 1961, The Music Shoppe has served as a trusted partner in music education for over six decades. Our legacy began with a passion for percussion and evolved into a comprehensive resource for band, orchestra, and individual musicians. We specialize in instrument rentals, sales, and repairs, prioritizing accessibility and quality to support students and educators. Our team, rooted in musical expertise, offers personalized service and innovative solutions like maintenance coverage and flexible rental programs. With three Illinois locations and a robust online presence, we remain committed to fostering musical growth through reliable service and community engagement. Services
Instrument Rentals
Band & Orchestra Instruments
Guitar Sales
Drum & Percussion
Repair Services
Music Lessons
Sound & Recording Equipment
Gift Cards
Online Store
School Programs
Details
- Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
- 60+ years of experience serving music educators and students
- Family-owned business with generational musical expertise
- Free loaner instruments during repairs with maintenance coverage
- Commitment-free rentals with flexible instrument switching
- Weekly school visit exchanges for convenience
Services
Instrument Rentals
Our flexible instrument rental program supports beginning musicians with commitment-free options. Students can switch instruments anytime, with all rental payments applying toward eventual purchase. Maintenance & Replacement coverage waives repair costs for accidental damage, including free loaner instruments during service periods. This program helps families invest confidently in music education without long-term commitments.
Repair Services
Professional instrument repair services cover band, orchestra, and string instruments with fast turnaround times. Our technicians provide free loaners during repairs and offer maintenance coverage plans to protect against accidental damage. Servicing both rental and personal instruments ensures students maintain optimal playing condition without interruption to their musical development.
Band & Orchestra Instruments
Comprehensive selection of band and orchestra instruments for purchase or rental, including woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion. Step-Up instruments qualify for free shipping, with special pricing for educational institutions. Our inventory supports school music programs across Illinois through direct partnerships and weekly school visits for equipment exchanges.
Music Lessons
Private and group music instruction for all skill levels, focusing on proper technique and musical development. Lessons available for band, orchestra, and popular instruments with experienced educators who understand school music curriculum requirements. Designed to complement school band programs and individual practice routines.
Sound & Recording Equipment
Professional audio equipment sales for live sound and studio recording applications. Carrying microphones, mixers, interfaces, and monitoring systems from leading brands. Solutions tailored for school music programs, home studios, and professional musicians requiring reliable equipment for performance and production needs.
People
John Noonan
Founder
A percussion professor at Illinois Wesleyan, John established the original drum & guitar shop in 1961. His educational background and performance experience shaped the company's initial focus on music education and instrument repair services.
Tom Wood
Former Owner
John Noonan's first percussion student at Illinois Wesleyan, Tom purchased the business in 1961. He expanded offerings to include wind instruments and print music while establishing the company's school outreach programs.
Randy Wood
Co-Owner
Tom's son joined the business in 1973 and led its expansion through three decades. As co-owner, he maintained focus on educational needs while overseeing store growth and multiple location moves.
Terry Houchin
Co-Owner
School sales representative since 1973, Terry partnered with Randy Wood to grow the business. Together they expanded into electronic instruments through Pro-Sound Center and established affiliate partnerships across Illinois.
Jonathon Breen
Current Owner
Taking leadership in 2018, Jonathon continues the family tradition with modern innovations. He oversees three locations and digital transformation while maintaining the company's educational mission established in 1961.
Questions
What instruments qualify for free shipping?
Step-Up instruments (excluding baritone sax, tuba, cello, bass, and harp) qualify for free shipping within the contiguous United States.
Can I return my rental instrument?
Yes, you may return rental instruments at any time to stop monthly payments. There are no penalties for early returns.
Do you offer repair loaner instruments?
Yes, we provide free loaner instruments during repair periods to ensure uninterrupted music education and practice.
Are financing options available?
Yes, we offer financing options for instrument purchases. Apply through our website or contact any store location for details.
How do school instrument exchanges work?
Our team visits schools weekly for instrument exchanges. Contact us to schedule a visit or arrange loaner instrument swaps during repairs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept PayPal, major credit cards, and in-store payments. Financing options are available for qualified applicants.
Reviews (4)
Martha Lancaster
Jun 09, 2022
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Sales associate Todd C. is very knowledgeable, customer service oriented who took the time to ensure my son had everything for his drum set we had purchased at a pawn shop earlier that day. He explained the differences between the cymbal stands, foot pedals & the throne (seat) you sit on. They were out of drummer's gloves, but ensured he would call me when they came in the following Tuesday (5/31).
The Music Shoppe was running a monthly special on drum sets & accessories. As promised, Todd called & let me know the gloves came in on Tuesday & I still got the special promotional price on them. I highly recommend this place for all your music needs. Thank you again Todd C. for your patience & knowledge. We will definitely be coming back.
The Music Shoppe was running a monthly special on drum sets & accessories. As promised, Todd called & let me know the gloves came in on Tuesday & I still got the special promotional price on them. I highly recommend this place for all your music needs. Thank you again Todd C. for your patience & knowledge. We will definitely be coming back.
Brian Woodcraft
Mar 18, 2022
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Wonderful place. I popped in to just muse and spent more than an hour playing various guitars at my leisure. I am just a beginner looking for my next guitar on a visit from the UK. Very helpful and friendly
Kevin
Feb 15, 2022
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I have to say I really liked The Music Shoppe! An excellent store. I finally visited the shop to get a couple boxes of guitar strings. I just didn't feel like ordering online. I want to see merchandise in-person! Wonderful, friendly staff in the store. Great instrument selections. The store was bigger than I thought, a pleasant surprise. Make yourself feel good, check out an instrument for yourself, live. talk to staff about what you're looking for. Sorry, but I love these "real" businesses.
Chloe Alexander
Feb 10, 2022
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This is the main place I bring my guitars for tune ups and restrings. I recently had some bad weather damage to my Martin, and was afraid there was no going back. However, Tony did a great job repairing it, and it sounds better than ever before! All the staff are friendly too. Thanks again!
