When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Music & Arts

Why Music & Arts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Music & Arts is a premier musical instrument retailer and educational hub with a legacy dating back to 1952. Founded in Bethesda, MD, it has grown into the largest school music dealer in the U.S., now operating over 200 retail stores nationwide. The company specializes in band and orchestra instrument sales and rentals, guitars, keyboards, sheet music, accessories, musical instrument repairs, and private music lessons, making it an ideal place for musicians at all levels to meet and grow their talents. Its friendly, knowledgeable staff composed of trained musicians provides personalized service that caters to students, parents, and educators alike. Music & Arts emphasizes community and fosters a welcoming environment for musicians to connect, learn, and share their passion. With one of the largest selections of instruments and accessories available, as well as a comprehensive lesson program covering 23 instruments, it offers a one-stop experience for music lovers. The company also actively supports music education through dedicated instructional staff, lesson showcases, and rich educational resources, positioning itself as a hub for nurturing lifelong musicianship and creativity.
Here's what people think of Music & Arts
As of recent, Music & Arts holds a 4.6-star rating based on 34 reviews.
Users generally rate Music & Arts highly, praising its extensive selection of instruments, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and supportive environment conducive to learning and musical growth. Positive reviews frequently highlight the company's wide range of product offerings, competitive pricing, and the professionalism of its music instructors. Customers appreciate the personalized attention they receive, whether purchasing instruments or enrolling in lessons, and many commend the supportive atmosphere for beginners and experienced musicians alike. Some negative feedback, however, revolves around occasional issues with customer service responsiveness and delays in repairs or rentals. A few users express frustration with inventory availability or communication challenges. Despite some critiques, the overall consensus remains positive because the company consistently strives to address concerns and improve customer experience. In summary, Music & Arts is highly regarded for its commitment to musical education and providing quality products, with most customers recommending it as a reliable and friendly environment for aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nick Radachi
Matthew did an amazing job restringing my acoustic guitar. Helped me out right away, offered to oil the fretboard, awesome work! He is always extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Thanks very much!
Vinothkumar A
Recently I got an violin for my Daugther, and the process was so easy and staff are friendly
Michael Daly
Staff is courteous and helpful. My daughter's rental cello needed repair. It was covered by their rental policy. They switched it out without any issues and we had another rental ready to go for the school's winter concert. Thank You.
Stacey Pynn (Christine)
Alexander and Heidi at the Scottsdale location were AMAZING!! I rented a viola for my 6th grader back in 2018, she switched schools and I kept the rental thinking she would pick it back up again. Well, she's in college now and I just kept forgetting to bring it back! Needless to say I more than paid for a new viola and this amazing company not only took back the viola from 2018, but they gave me a partial credit toward a new instrument I could take and donate to my younger daughter's school. Alexander got on the phone with the head of the music department at the school to determine their needs and I'm bringing a beautiful clarinet as a donation. Heidi and Alexander went above and beyond today and I will recommend that store, and this company to anyone who wants an instrument for their child.
Zeke Saxman (SkepDop)
Very helpful staff! I was helped immediately and showing plenty of cool gadgets that I can't afford but I can't wait to buy them from here! Great place to pick up maintenance stuff, but also a great place to find an upgrade or something new! Will be returning!
How to reach Music & Arts
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Website: None

Why Music & Arts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Music & Arts with your friends? Music & Arts offers an inviting and vibrant atmosphere for groups of friends and families looking to connect over a shared passion for music and the arts. This establishment has grown from a small business in Maryland to a nationwide retailer and education hub with over 200 retail stores, bringing together musicians, students, parents, and educators in a friendly, supportive environment. With a 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews, it is clear that many customers appreciate the quality of service and community spirit cultivated here. Hosting a meetup at Music & Arts means engaging in a space rich with musical opportunities—whether exploring new instruments, joining group lessons, or simply enjoying the artistic vibe. The setting encourages learning, creativity, and lively interaction, making it ideal for friends and family who want a meaningful and fun shared experience. Music & Arts is more than a store; it is a community hub where music lovers can gather, collaborate, and celebrate their mutual interests in an inspiring environment.
What activities are available at Music & Arts that make it perfect for a group meetup? Music & Arts is a comprehensive music retailer and education center that caters to various musical needs and interests, making it an excellent destination for groups. Visitors can browse a vast selection of band and orchestra instruments, from clarinets and saxophones to violins, electric guitars, and percussion kits, making it exciting for group members to explore and discover new sounds together. For those who want to deepen their musical skills, Music & Arts offers music lessons with trained teachers who are knowledgeable and approachable, ideal for both beginners and experienced musicians. Additionally, the store provides instrument rentals and repair services, meaning groups can experiment with instruments without a long-term commitment. The availability of accessories and educational materials, including method books and sheet music, supports musicians of all levels, making group practice sessions and jam sessions more accessible. This combination of retail, education, and service fosters an interactive atmosphere where friends can play, learn, and create music side by side.
Why is Music & Arts an outstanding place to host family-oriented meetups? Music & Arts is not only about instruments and lessons—it is a family-friendly environment where parents, children, and educators alike can feel welcome. The company's history reflects a commitment to fostering musical education and community from its earliest days in 1952, evolving into a national leader with a family-oriented focus. The presence of qualified music teachers offers parents peace of mind that their children will receive quality instruction if they choose lessons. Moreover, the store’s spacious layout and welcoming atmosphere make it comfortable for families to spend quality time together exploring musical instruments and participating in workshops or group classes. Staff members are trained musicians and educators who provide personalized assistance, enhancing the experience for families new to music or looking for support. With its comprehensive product range, music lessons, and community-focused events, Music & Arts serves as a vibrant gathering spot for families to bond through the joy of music.
What makes Music & Arts appealing for friends who want to explore music together? For groups of friends, Music & Arts offers an eclectic and inspiring environment that encourages collaborative music exploration and discovery. Whether you are friends who play different instruments or want to try something new together, the store’s wide variety of instruments—from brass to strings, woodwinds to electronic guitars—ensures there is something for everyone. Music & Arts also hosts group lessons and ensemble opportunities where friends can learn to play in sync or assemble their own band. The expert staff can guide groups to the right gear and accessories adapted to each player’s skill level, making it easy to embark on a new musical journey as a team. Additionally, the store arranges instrument maintenance and repair, meaning groups can keep their shared instruments in top shape. The lively, music-filled setting encourages creativity and camaraderie, making it a fantastic place for friends to rally, learn, and make music together.
How does Music & Arts support music educators and community involvement? Music & Arts is strongly committed to supporting educators and the broader musical community, which enhances its role as an ideal venue for meetups that emphasize learning and cultural enrichment. The company provides educators with an extensive catalog of band instruments, accessories, and educational materials, helping schools and teachers offer quality music programs. Many of its staff are trained musicians themselves, providing professional insights and personalized service to educators and students alike. This dedication extends to community events, workshops, and clinics that Music & Arts frequently sponsors or hosts, creating opportunities for musical development and social interaction. Groups meeting here also have access to educational resources and expert advice, ensuring they can make the most of their musical experiences. The store’s active engagement with the educational community cements its reputation as more than a retailer—it's a partner in fostering musical growth.
Why does the customer service experience at Music & Arts enhance group meetups? A key factor in Music & Arts’ appeal is its highly regarded customer service, which creates a warm and supportive atmosphere perfect for group meetups. Customers frequently highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to assist with instrument selection, rental arrangements, repairs, and lesson scheduling. This attentive service ensures that groups feel valued and supported throughout their visit. While some complaints have been reported around billing and communication issues, many positive reviews emphasize staff responsiveness and effective problem-solving, especially in service scenarios like instrument repairs during critical events. The company’s commitment to a welcoming customer experience helps groups feel comfortable and engaged, enabling them to focus on enjoying music together. This quality service complements the rich musical offerings and communal spaces, making Music & Arts a reliable and enjoyable destination for friends and families to gather.
How does the location and size of Music & Arts contribute to its suitability for meetups? With over 200 retail locations across the United States and many affiliate sites, Music & Arts offers convenient access for groups from various areas. The stores are typically spacious enough to accommodate multiple visitors comfortably, allowing groups to browse, try instruments, and participate in lessons without feeling crowded. Their broad geographic reach means that many communities have a local Music & Arts location, fostering a sense of neighborhood familiarity and accessibility. The layout of the stores is designed to showcase instruments and educational materials effectively, creating an environment that sparks curiosity and interaction. This physical design, combined with the scale of their operations, supports diverse group activities, from casual browsing with friends to organized ensemble rehearsals or workshops. The size and presence of Music & Arts stores make them a natural gathering point for community events and informal meetups centered around music.
Why is Music & Arts ideal for both novice and advanced musicians in a group setting? Music & Arts prides itself on catering to musicians of all skill levels, making it an ideal place for groups with varying musical backgrounds to come together. Beginners benefit from easy access to rentals, starter instruments, and method books, plus patient and experienced teachers who can guide them step-by-step. Meanwhile, advanced players find a wide selection of professional-grade instruments, high-quality accessories, and expert repair services to match their elevated needs. The ability to rent instruments also lowers barriers for newcomers and allows more experienced players to try out new gear without major upfront investment. Having all these resources under one roof means groups composed of novices and pros can support each other’s growth and share a collaborative musical journey. This inclusivity fosters a unique group dynamic centered on mutual encouragement and discovery.
What makes Music & Arts different from other music retailers as a meetup location? Unlike many music retailers that focus solely on sales, Music & Arts integrates instrument sales, rentals, repairs, and music lessons into one comprehensive music ecosystem. This multifaceted approach creates a richer experience for groups, allowing them to shop, learn, and play in the same space. Their emphasis on education and community involvement sets them apart by making music accessible and fostering ongoing connections beyond a transactional relationship. Staff members who are trained musicians themselves add authenticity and expertise to every visit. Furthermore, the company’s longstanding history and national presence provide a stable and trusted environment for customers seeking a dependable resource for all things music. This holistic, community-driven model makes Music & Arts a distinctive and appealing venue to rally friends and family around a shared love of music.
How can friends or families plan a successful meetup at Music & Arts? Planning a meetup at Music & Arts involves taking advantage of the many services and spaces available. Groups can coordinate to attend group music lessons or workshops together, rent instruments for combined practice sessions, or schedule instrument maintenance visits as a shared activity. Preparing ahead by contacting staff to arrange a group consult or lesson can enhance the experience. Exploring new instruments together offers a fun way to discover mutual interests or new hobbies. Families can also plan visits around music-related events hosted by the store, such as recitals or seasonal celebrations, to enrich their time. By leveraging the full range of Music & Arts services, groups ensure their meetup is interactive, educational, and enjoyable for all members regardless of musical experience.
Why do reviews and ratings support Music & Arts as a meetup destination? With a solid rating of 4.6 based on 34 reviews, Music & Arts demonstrates consistent customer satisfaction that supports its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable destination. Many reviews highlight positive experiences with the quality of instruments, helpfulness of staff, and beneficial music lessons. Testimonials mention the welcoming atmosphere and the company’s dedication to supporting their customers’ musical journeys, which enhances the appeal for group activities. Although some negative reviews exist around customer service hiccups, these are relatively isolated and generally do not overshadow the overall positive perception. These ratings and reviews reinforce Music & Arts’ position as a community-focused business well-suited for friends and families wanting to meet in a music-rich environment.
In summary, Music & Arts offers a compelling combination of extensive product range, specialized musical education, supportive community vibe, and attentive customer service, creating a dynamic and friendly environment for group meetups. Whether you want to explore new instruments, take lessons, or simply enjoy music together, rallying at Music & Arts ensures a memorable and enriching experience for friends and family alike.