10 top spots to buy musical instruments in Cape Town

Treasure troves for music fiends

Promising pianists, gregarious guitarists and dynamite drummers will find all the instruments, demonstration facilities, music lessons, instrument repairs and accessories they need at these Cape Town music stores.

1 - Paul Bothner Music
Since 1902, Paul Bothner have prided themselves on a technically competent staff and sell everything from guitars to studio and recording equipment. Phone the head office for your nearest store.
Shop G7 | Richmond Centre | Plumstead | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 761 4828

2 - Musikhaus W Heuer
Budding pianists can choose from a wide range of pianos ranging from grand pianos to classical organs. The stores also stock guitars and accessories.
Cavendish Place | Claremont | +27 (0)21 683 6050; 69-71 Bird Street | Stellenbosch | +27 (0)21 887 2938

3 - Marshall Music
Beginners and professional musicians alike will find the widest selection of musical instruments and outstanding viewing and demonstration facilities. The store also stock guitars, drums, amplifiers and digital equipment.
65 Buitengracht Street | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 426 6325

4 - Brian Lisus Violins
Brian's bespoke violins, which have been sold around the world, are made from imported European wood and feature distinct drawings on the back of each instrument by artist, Caryl Blomkamp.
22 Firfield Road | Plumstead | +27 (0)21 797 2861

5 - The African Music Store
This traditional store stocks instruments including; mbiras, marimbas and djembe drums, as well as a range of percussion instruments. Their original African oil tin guitars are sold for good value too. Read more about the African Music Store.
134 Long Street | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 426 0857

6 - Guitar Centre
Catering for intermediate and advanced players, the store stocks everything from acoustic to fender guitars. Guitar Centre also offers music lessons, guitar repairs and sell a wide range of other instruments.
Shop 10 | Parklands Centre | Link Road | Parklands | +27 (0)21 557 2157

7 - Musicfest SA
You'll find a large variety of instruments at affordable prices, in a 'try-before-you-buy, crank-it-up' atmosphere. Browse guitars, drum sets, keyboards, strings, woodwind instruments and much more.
Shop 34 | Shoprite Park| 262 Voortrekker Road | Parow | +27 (0)21 930 3330

8 - Musicraft
Born out of owner Victor de Freitas's fascination with repairing brass and woodwind instruments, the store stocks new and restored instruments, as well as accessories such as, reeds, mouthpieces and straps.
8 Humby Road | Ottery | +27 (0)21 703 2902

9 - Allen & Fischer Pianos
Owner Paul Fischer sells and leases pianos and his workshop is shrouded in antiquated mystery. As a prerequisite, every technician who services or repairs instruments must be able to also play the piano.
Old Wynberg Hotel | Corner of Main and Constantia Roads | Wynberg | +27 (0)21 797 7118

10 - BK Percussion and Musical Intruments
This drummer’s paradise stocks Ludwig USA drums, djembes, Istanbul cymbals, Aquarian drumheads and Gibraltar hardware and stands.
Rosbur Park | Neptune Street | Paarden Island | +27 (0)21 510 7770

For inspiration, read our overview of Cape Town musicians who've made it across the pond and visit our music section.

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By Lisa Nevitt