When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Shar Music
Why Shar Music is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Shar Music, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a premier retailer and supplier specializing in string instruments such as violins, violas, cellos, and double basses, along with their bows, strings, cases, and related accessories. Celebrating over 60 years in business, Shar has evolved from a small mail-order company into a leading e-commerce business serving musicians across the United States and Canada. Their inventory includes electric and baroque instruments, Suzuki Method™ materials for beginners, and a broad selection of accessories like metronomes, tuners, and maintenance products. The company’s workplace culture is rooted in a shared passion for music, with staff often possessing musical backgrounds to better assist customers in finding the right products and services. Shar Music also offers repair, maintenance, and rental services, making it a versatile and trusted destination for musicians at every level. Their commitment to lowering barriers to music access makes it an excellent place to meet, shop, and grow as a musician.
Here's what people think of Shar Music
As of recent, Shar Music holds a 4.7-star rating based on 983 reviews.
Customer and employee reviews of Shar Music paint a mixed but largely positive picture of the company. Many users commend the passion and supportive environment among the staff, highlighting the opportunity to work closely with music and the families "music" creates internally. Positive reviews praise the company’s willingness to help employees grow professionally and the knowledgeable, friendly customer service that reflects their musical expertise. Conversely, some reviews express concerns about internal organization, favoritism, and reported dysfunction within the family ownership structure, leading to workplace stress. Pay scale and communication in management have also been noted as areas needing improvement. Overall, the reviews indicate that while Shar Music excels in product quality and music community engagement, it faces typical challenges of a family-run, fast-growing company. The company's dedication to customer satisfaction and its extensive product range continue to make it a respected leader in the string instrument retail market.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kerry Borgen
This is such a great company. When I am on need of strings, accessories or books, Shar is my go to. Prices are reasonable and even better during their sales. The customer service is first rate. They answer phone calls promptly and are very accommodating. Every person I have ever had conversations with has been courteous and cheery. I highly recommend Shar products for all your string needs.
Hanna Cho
I had a pleasant experience with calling to the Shar Music customer service team. I wanted to share the issue with a string that I purchased. The customer service representative listened with great empathy and truly tried to support with high level of professionalism. I felt that I was like talking with the company’ CEO because she was very passionate to support and amazingly caring about how their products work for real world of classical music. I am so glad to experience the outstanding customer service team, and I recommend Shar Music with confidence to anyone who still hesitates online purchase in music.
Justin Alberico
Purchased a bow for violin. It broke the same day it arrived after being dropped once. Reached out through email to customer service to see about possible replacement and received no response. Had to purchase the higher quality one. The only reason I gave 3 stars is because items ship and arrive quickly.
Edee Lin
Great customer service! I am a regular customer online. Their price is fair and they have fast delivery. I had a coupon but realized I forgot to use it as soon as I placed the order. I emailed and left a message. They did call back, but due to the time difference and crazy work schedule, I wasn’t able to take to them directly. Last week, I got an email that they’ve adjusted the price for me! What a nice surprise! Highly recommend Shar Music!!!
Hailey White
Shar music came highly recommended by a fellow musician and I can see why. Their customer service is excellent. I called inquiring about a sold out violin and they called me back in a few days, found what I was looking for and helped me with all the details of my purchase. Mike is excellent!
How to reach Shar Music
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Website: None
Why Shar Music may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Shar Music with your friends? If you and your friends share a passion for string instruments—whether you play violin, viola, cello, or bass—Shar Music in Ann Arbor is an unbeatable destination to gather and enjoy a uniquely enriching experience. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly a thousand reviews, Shar Music has earned a reputation not only as a premier retailer for string instrument supplies but also as a welcoming hub for musicians of all skill levels. It’s more than just a store; it’s a place where friends can explore high-quality instruments, browse an extensive collection of strings, rosin, cases, sheet music, and accessories, and chat with knowledgeable staff who are often musicians themselves. Whether you want to try out gear, discover rare sheet music, or simply immerse yourselves in a community that cherishes classical and contemporary string music, Shar Music offers a warm, inspiring environment perfect for groups. The combination of expert customer service, a showroom you can visit, and a rich heritage dating back over 60 years makes this place ideal for friends who want to bond over their shared love of music in a relaxed, educational, and engaging setting.
What activities can you do at Shar Music that make it perfect for a group meetup? At Shar Music, you and your friends can dive into several activities that cater specifically to musicians and music enthusiasts. First, visiting the showroom allows your group to see and try out a wide variety of string instruments, bows, and accessories. This hands-on experience is ideal for people wanting to test gear together, compare options, or even hold informal music sessions right there. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer technical questions, assist in choosing the right strings or maintenance products, and provide expert recommendations tailored to each visitor’s skill level and instrument. Second, Shar Music offers instrument repair and restoration services, so your group can schedule an appointment to consult with professional repair technicians. Watching experts care for and restore instruments can be fascinating, especially if your friends are instrument owners curious about maintenance or upgrades. Third, the store stocks an extensive and carefully curated inventory of sheet music and teaching materials, perfect for ensembles and orchestras. Friends can discover new repertoire to practice together or find rare and quality editions unavailable at typical big-box retailers. Lastly, Shar Music organizes occasional community engagement events, workshops, or demonstrations, providing a social atmosphere where musical friends can learn, share, and connect. These interactions forge stronger bonds among musicians and deepen appreciation for string music.
Why is Shar Music’s environment conducive to hosting meetups? The environment at Shar Music is specially crafted to encourage interaction, exploration, and collaborative learning, making it an excellent venue for group meetups. The showroom and repair shop are not just functional spaces; they are vibrant hubs designed to welcome musicians with warmth and professionalism. The staff’s passion for string instruments and individualized customer care help create an inviting atmosphere that fosters conversation and discovery. Many customers praise the store for being a place where people "feel valued" as both customers and fellow musicians. This positive vibe translates into an experience where friends can linger comfortably, discussing instrument care tips, sharing musical insights, or simply enjoying each other’s company surrounded by instruments and music-focused resources. Moreover, the fact that Shar Music has a long history and a strong reputation for quality and integrity adds a reassuring layer of trust for anyone bringing friends to explore new instruments or collaborative projects. Its physical location in Ann Arbor also makes it easy to arrange meetups around other local amenities and dining options, extending the social experience beyond just shopping.
How does Shar Music’s product range support group activities? The extensive product range at Shar Music is designed to support both individual musicians and groups, creating opportunities for collective learning and enjoyment. For groups of friends who perform together or share a music teaching or student relationship, finding everything in one place—from strings, bridge pins, and bow maintenance kits to specialized rosin and tuners—makes planning rehearsals or lessons easier and more efficient. Because Shar Music carefully vets its products for quality, customers can trust that what they purchase will enhance their playing experience. Sheet music catalogs, though slightly stronger for violin and cello, also include a variety of orchestral and chamber music titles that friends and ensembles can explore and order collaboratively. Beyond standard products, Shar Music’s expertise ensures recommendations are tailored perfectly to help groups make informed choices, whether purchasing instruments for a new ensemble or upgrading existing gear. This convenience and reliability transform Shar Music into more than a store—it’s a resource center supporting both casual gatherings and serious musical endeavors, perfect for friends who want to strengthen their musical journey together.
What makes customer service at Shar Music stand out for group visits? One of Shar Music’s defining features is its exceptional customer service, which significantly enhances the experience for groups coming together. The staff are known for their friendly, patient, and well-informed approach, often taking extra time to answer detailed questions and offer customized advice. Many reviews highlight how the team treats customers as valued individuals, not just transactions, which creates a welcoming environment where friends feel encouraged to explore and learn as a group. For example, if a bunch of friends needs different types of strings or accessories, the staff’s ability to cater to diverse needs simultaneously and explain product features clearly helps avoid confusion and makes shopping enjoyable. The repair technicians also provide valuable insights during their consultations, helping friends understand the nuances of instrument care and encouraging them to maintain their gear properly. This outstanding support quality is a key reason groups choose Shar Music for meetups, knowing they will receive attentive service as well as a genuine passion for music on display.
How does Shar Music cater to both beginners and advanced players in a group setting? Shar Music is uniquely suited to accommodate groups comprising players with varied experience levels, making it a perfect meetup spot for friends regardless of expertise. For beginners, the staff can recommend starter instruments, affordable strings, and essential accessories while also providing guidance on music learning resources and teaching tools. For advanced or professional players within the group, Shar Music provides premium strings, bows, and fine tuners, along with expert repair and restoration services that maintain high-performance instruments at peak condition. This range means the whole group can shop and learn together without anyone feeling left out or underserved. Additionally, the availability of detailed product descriptions and test sessions in the showroom helps all players—from novices to veterans—make decisions confidently. The supportive atmosphere encourages questions and discussion, so even beginner players can benefit from the knowledge shared by the staff and fellow group members, enhancing the group’s collective experience.
Why choose Shar Music over other music stores for your group meetup? Choosing Shar Music over other music retailers stems from its combination of history, specialization, customer care, and community engagement. Founded over six decades ago, Shar Music’s dedication to string instruments shines through its curated product selection and expert staff. Unlike general music stores or large online retailers, Shar Music focuses deeply on strings and related equipment, ensuring customers receive personalized and quality-driven service. The presence of both a physical storefront and an online platform makes it accessible for local meetups and distant purchases alike. Customer testimonials frequently highlight the company’s reliability, speed in shipping, and willingness to go the extra mile for musician customers. These qualities create a trustworthy and enjoyable shopping environment for friends and groups who want a specialized, supportive experience rather than a purely transactional one. In addition, Shar Music’s involvement in the Ann Arbor music scene and its longstanding reputation provide a sense of community and continuity that large chains cannot replicate.
What other benefits can groups expect when visiting Shar Music? Beyond shopping and repairs, groups visiting Shar Music can expect educational benefits, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. Shar Music’s resources often include tips on instrument care and instructional materials which are invaluable for group learning and collaboration. The chance to observe or participate in repair consultations inspires greater appreciation for the craftsmanship behind string instruments, sparking engaging conversations and shared discoveries. Visiting the store together encourages collective decision-making and mutual support, fostering a creative atmosphere that helps friends feel connected through their music. Furthermore, because Shar Music is a respected institution within the string community, visiting it can also be a special occasion—a meaningful event that reinforces the joy of making music together. The combined effect of all these benefits makes Shar Music an ideal venue for meetups that go far beyond merely purchasing gear; it’s a space where friendships deepen through shared passion.
In sum, Shar Music is much more than a retailer — it’s a vibrant musical gathering place where friends can rally around a mutual love of string instruments in a welcoming and expert-guided setting. From exploring quality products and watching expert repairs to engaging with a knowledgeable staff and discovering new music, Shar Music offers a rich variety of activities tailored for group enjoyment. Its commitment to customer care, specialized inventory, and community connection ensures that any meetup here will be both inspiring and rewarding. Whether you want to bond over instrument shopping, learn together, or simply soak in a shared musical ambiance, Shar Music is a perfect place to convene and celebrate string music with your friends.