Strum — Local services in Portland

For just a smidge of background, I’ve visited Portland more times than I can count between 2017 and present day, including a year and a half sojourn living there from the start of 2019 until mid-2020. Strum PDX’s family element is undeniable, the staff has always been friendly, willing to talk shop, and even deeper than that, the owner Michael and his wife (sorry I don’t remember your wife’s name) had even on a couple occasions just simply asked how I was doing and feeling overall, being a young early-20s year old freshly moved out of the parents place 1000 miles away… didn’t have to do that, they’re just genuine people that care about others. As for the store as whole, the equipment selection is almost always great, as long as you’re not molesting the instruments (metaphorically speaking) you can play them to your heart’s content, prices were often in-line with average market price (gotta make a profit somehow), and the atmosphere was always welcoming whether you were just strolling in on a day off, or there for a show. Many fond memories formed drinking a cream soda (not really a drinker) and talking shop. Great place, a must stop for me, and always recommended when I hear any musician friends are going to...

I first encountered Strum as a performance space. 2 guitarists that I had previously seen separately elsewhere were playing together at Strum on a Sunday afternoon. Everything about this space was terrific for an audience member - acoustics, sight lines, easy access to drinks and refills, and the visual aspect of having guitars everywhere made for a wonderful listening experience. Since I was primarily there to listen, I didn't get a chance to look carefully at the guitars for sale, but from what I was able to observe, I'm very much looking forward to returning as a musical instrument customer. This was the first guitar shop I've ever been to that had a bar for beverages. I didn't look carefully enough to have memorized the drink options, but during my visit I had 2 different excellent stouts on draught, which was a particularly nice find in a town that has become...

In a world where "pretentious" is often the first word that comes to mind when I hear "vintage guitar shop", this place is a wonderful anomaly. There’s so much to love about this place! From the gear inventory to the bowling alley lane turned bar top, every detail has been meticulously and lovingly curated to create a space that is truly special. But here’s where it gets really good, the owners and staff are amazing! I’ve never felt more welcomed or comfortable in a guitar store, and as a musician I’ve been in my fair share.

Not a musician, or not in the market for vintage gear? Don’t let that stop you from visiting. Strum hosts live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 7 to 9pm at no charge! This vintage guitar bar is quickly becoming one of the hottest venues in town. Do yourself a favor and...