The Band Shoppe Sykesville — Attraction in Sykesville

Nice little music retail, repair and lesson spot on the edge of Main Street Sykesville. I've been in Sykesville/Eldersburg for almost 6 years and I didn't know this was there. I met Lee, the owner, and chatted with him about the history of the store and what the company is trying to do. As far as gear for sale, the vast majority of the store is dedicated to band and orchestra instruments. Guitars and basses take a backseat, literally toward the back of the store. As far as electric guitars they focused on a brand called Amati which were stratocaster and telecaster clones. A smattering of used combo amps lined the floor. Same went for the electric bass guitars. As far as acoustics, they featured Alvarez branded instruments. The one I picked up and noodled on spoke well.

If you're looking for a vintage boutique instrument or amp that costs a bazillion dollars? They could probably order it for you. They don't have anything like that in the store. If you're a parent and your child wants to start playing a musical instrument either in the school band or playing guitar for fun, they'll rent or sell you a quality instrument. Want supplemental instruction for either? They've got you covered. The instructors have little sound-dampening studios off the main floor and lessons were on-going as I was there. I bought myself an instrument cable on my way out. Overall? A great little music store nestled in less than 10 minutes...

My son wanted to take electric guitar lessons, so we signed up at The Band Shoppe. Everyone at the shop has been so welcoming and helpful on our journey. The owner Lee let him borrow a guitar for his first lesson until I was able to get him his own, and Lee is always available to make product recommendations. Keith at the front desk has been so great as well.

Kyle, my son's instructor, has been awesome and my son just loves him. Kyle is very encouraging and approachable, and he helps him pick songs to work on that he loves. My son struggles with commitments outside the house, but he always wants to come to guitar lessons to hang out with Mr. Kyle.

The waiting area for parents is comfortable, and it has wifi and a TV. The shop offer a discount on products for students taking lessons. Scheduling is easy too. They offer lessons for lots of instruments, and they offer vocal lessons as well. I have watched them helping children try and select instruments for band class too, and they are friendly, patient, and accommodating.

We've been very happy here for lessons, and our positive experience has me thinking about taking my own lessons for acoustic guitar. I recommend them for anyone looking to start or continue their...

Our older son took lessons with Julia here a couple years back and now our younger son is taking lessons with Chris.

We also had our two older children's instruments tuned up here, which took about a week and came back looking and sounding like new.

Back to our younger son who plays the trombone. There was a great summer special and our son just wanted some help over the summer so he could learn to read music better and improve his trombone skills. He has been taking lessons for the past month and it has really motivated him to practice at home, which he often doesn't do during the school year.

Everyone at the front counter is super helpful. The owner is so nice and even let us do the trial and then gave us a day to decide if we were going to sign up for the special or just pay for the trial.

If we can't get to a lesson, we just tell them 24hrs in advance and can plan a double lesson the week before or after.

The shoppe has plenty of seating for waiting parents or I suggest walking around downtown to pass time.

Our son likes his instructor. He is patient and kind.

Absolutely recommend this place for your...