When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Strait Music Company
Why Strait Music Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Strait Music Company, family owned and operated since 1963 in Austin, Texas, stands out as a premier meeting place for music lovers and friends. Known for being one of the largest independent music retailers in the United States, the company offers a wide range of new and used instruments, catering to everyone from beginners to professional musicians. The store prides itself on its extensive selection, including electric guitars, violas, mixing boards, and more, ensuring there's something for every type of musician. Strait Music also boasts one of the largest repair departments in Texas, delivering expert service for all instruments they sell. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, reflecting a family-oriented culture that has persevered through numerous economic challenges and natural disasters, building a loyal customer base. Whether for a casual get-together or a serious music shopping session, Strait Music Company provides a unique and enjoyable experience, enriched by their commitment to customer service and quality gear.
Here's what people think of Strait Music Company
As of recent, Strait Music Company holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1078 reviews.
Customer reviews for Strait Music Company reveal a strong appreciation for the store's culture and learning opportunities, with many highlighting the fun, productive environment and the chance to work with a wide variety of instruments. Positive feedback often points to the family-like atmosphere, the passion for music shared by staff, and valuable hands-on experience in sales and instrument knowledge. Employees praise the culture for promoting growth, despite some noting challenges with management and internal politics. However, some negative reviews mention a lack of structured training and occasional difficulties with upper management dynamics, indicating a competitive and numbers-driven environment. Despite these criticisms, most reviews conclude that Strait Music Company maintains a solid reputation for quality, customer service, and an engaging workplace experience, remaining a beloved institution for musicians and employees alike in Austin, Texas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Anderson
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Strait Music in Austin, and I can confidently say this store deserves every bit of its stellar reputation. From the moment I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the friendly staff, who made me feel right at home. Their welcoming attitude set the tone for an excellent experience. The selection at Strait Music is nothing short of impressive. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting, they have something for everyone. The variety of guitars alone is remarkable, but they also cater to other instruments, accessories, and musical needs. It's clear they take pride in curating a diverse and high-quality inventory. What sets Strait Music apart is their dedication to fostering musical growth. They offer classes, which is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to improve their skills or start their musical journey. The staff is knowledgeable and genuinely enthusiastic about helping customers find what they need. As a testament to their professionalism, they even provided me with a business card for future purchases—a small but thoughtful gesture that highlights their commitment to customer service. Strait Music is a gem in Austin, combining a great atmosphere, excellent selection, and a team that truly cares. If you're in the market for instruments or musical advice, this is the place to go. Five stars, without a doubt!
Barbra Gazo
So happy to discover the new location of Strait Music! The team was helpful, knowledgeable, and top notch! We will return again and again. Great care given in smaller purchases paves the road for larger purchases for years to come!
Roger Gibbs
Wonderful customer service here! Jason patiently tended to me for hours as I tried to decide on a new guitar. They also did their best to work with me on the price and they even offered a payment plan. If you want to not be rushed and actually enjoy picking out a guitar then come here.
Teresa Byrd
Amazing people work here and they are NOT a big box corp store. Thanks for my terrific setup and the hug!
David Pasnik
Needed a box to ship a guitar. The kind lady I spoke with who sells guitars graciously went out of her way to give me a box from one of the guitars that had been shipped to their store. The box was in excellent condition, the right size for the guitar and case I needed to ship, and she gave it to me for free. Free! Thank you so much!
How to reach Strait Music Company
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Website: None
Rallying at Strait Music Company with your friends offers a uniquely vibrant and enriching experience ideal for group meetups. This isn’t just a music store — it’s a dynamic hub where people share a passion for music in an atmosphere that effortlessly combines learning, entertainment, and social interaction. Whether your group is composed of seasoned musicians, beginners, or simply music lovers looking for a lively outing, Strait Music provides an inviting space with knowledgeable staff and a welcoming community that supports group activities. Moreover, its reputation as Austin’s largest full-line music store adds to its appeal, offering an impressive variety of instruments and accessories that spark inspiration among friends. The venue's spirit of camaraderie encourages shared experiences, making it an excellent place for friends or family to meet, explore new musical horizons, and enjoy personal growth together. This is not merely shopping but an interactive, educational, and fun gathering spot that fosters connection through music.
What kind of activities can groups enjoy at Strait Music Company?
Strait Music Company offers a wide range of activities that make it an ideal place for groups to convene. For one, there’s an extensive selection of band and orchestra rentals, making it perfect for ensembles or friends looking to practice, perform, or simply experiment with different instruments together. Visitors can rent everything from violins to brass instruments, supporting all skill levels and group sizes. Beyond rentals, the store provides expert music lessons tailored to individuals or small groups, encouraging friends to learn and grow musically side-by-side. The presence of knowledgeable staff is a major highlight — they assist customers in discovering the right instruments and accessories, enhancing the overall group experience through shared discovery and personalized guidance. The opportunity to experience tryouts, demonstrations, and informal jam sessions on-site fosters a cooperative and enjoyable environment where everyone in your group can express their creativity and deepen their appreciation for music.
Why is Strait Music Company perfect for hosting a meetup with friends or family?
Strait Music Company’s spacious and versatile environment is especially well-suited to hosting group meetups. The store’s layout accommodates multiple visitors comfortably, providing plenty of room to browse instruments, try out gear, or sit for lessons and discussion without feeling crowded. Its family-oriented culture supports a welcoming, friendly atmosphere where new connections are easily made, and group members feel valued and engaged. The staff’s enthusiasm for music and commitment to customer service ensures your group receives expert attention, creating a seamless experience whether you’re shopping, renting, or learning. Moreover, the business's longstanding history since 1963 and its strong reputation in Austin signal reliability and community trust, giving groups peace of mind about the quality and value of their visit. Whether your meetup focuses on learning, jam sessions, or simply socializing, Strait Music provides an environment that naturally supports communal enjoyment and bonding.
How does Strait Music Company support educational opportunities for groups?
One of the company’s greatest strengths lies in its dedication to music education. Strait Music offers guitar teachers and lessons that are highly praised for being both effective and enjoyable. Groups can benefit greatly from these educational options by arranging private or group lessons, enabling friends or family members to progress together under professional guidance. The staff, who are described as super helpful and knowledgeable, help tailor learning experiences to meet the specific interests and skill levels of all participants. On-site learning not only makes the atmosphere stimulating but also provides immediate opportunities to apply lessons through instrument rentals or play sessions. This synergy between education and hands-on practice makes Strait Music an enriching venue where your group can genuinely grow in musical ability while enjoying quality time together.
What should visitors expect from the customer service and staff culture at Strait Music?
Visitors to Strait Music Company can anticipate engaging and supportive interactions with staff who are passionate about music. Reviews emphasize the team’s expertise and willingness to assist, creating an environment where customers feel confident exploring instruments and accessories. While internal office dynamics have been noted as sometimes complex, the customer-facing side retains a strong focus on helpfulness and personalized service. Staff members often share insights on product choices, offer practical demonstrations, and maintain patience as customers try out instruments. The culture is described as family-oriented and music-loving, making it easy for groups of friends or families to connect through shared interests. This customer service approach not only elevates the shopping experience but also nurtures a sense of belonging among visitors, which is crucial for group outings aiming for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
What makes Strait Music Company stand out compared to other music stores in Austin?
Several factors contribute to Strait Music Company’s status as a local favorite. First, it has a rich legacy spanning over sixty years, making it one of the most established music stores in Austin. This longevity reflects a deep understanding of the community’s musical needs, backed by trustworthy products and services. The store boasts a vast inventory encompassing a full range of instruments and accessories that meet the diverse tastes and skill levels of any group. Additionally, the combination of rental services, lessons, and an expert sales team creates a comprehensive music-shopping ecosystem that few competitors can match. The store’s appearance on popular media, including TV segments like "World’s Greatest," further amplifies its prestige and appeal. These elements together ensure customers feel confident choosing Strait Music for both casual meetups and more committed musical pursuits.
How accessible is Strait Music Company for groups planning to visit?
Strait Music Company is conveniently located in Austin, Texas, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Positioned on W Ben White Blvd and with a large store footprint, it offers ample parking and easy entry for groups arriving together. Its website enhances accessibility, providing options to shop online, rent, or learn remotely, which can be very useful for planning meetups that combine in-person and virtual elements. The pricing is noted as fair and competitive, appealing to groups with varying budgets and needs. Overall, the accessibility in terms of location, online resources, and customer service makes Strait Music an accommodating venue where groups can feel comfortable and well-supported.
What additional features enhance the experience for groups at Strait Music Company?
Beyond instruments and lessons, Strait Music Company is infused with qualities that elevate group gatherings. The store occasionally offers special events and promotions tailored to the local music community, providing exciting opportunities for groups to engage in themed activities or exclusive deals. Its commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere is evidenced by staff perks like complimentary food for employees, reflecting a culture that values hospitality — a vibe that spills over to customers as well. Groups can also benefit from the variety of accessories and supplies available, enabling them to customize their musical experience or gift unique items. The comprehensive nature of the store ensures that all group members, whether musicians or enthusiastic spectators, find something appealing, making the visit both productive and fun.
In summary, Strait Music Company offers a compelling destination for meetups with friends or family due to its rich musical environment, diverse activities, supportive staff, and inviting culture. This venue goes beyond the typical music store, fostering learning, creativity, and social connection in a well-established Austin locale. Whether you’re looking to rent instruments for a jam session, try a lesson together, or simply explore an extensive collection of musical gear, Strait Music creates the perfect setting for a memorable and meaningful group experience.