Really inviting and welcoming Each employee has a different perspective so know what you are looking for There are plenty of instruments looking for homes I was looking for a guitar and found a decent one for a hundred dollars It's a very respectable store in my humble opinion read more

Small, intimate venue for great music. There's a bar with limited bottled beers, cider and soft drinks. Small bar-nuts kind of snacks are available for purchase but no other "food"; however you are welcome to bring in your own snacks/food (and you can have food delivered there too!) The artists booked here are good quality, there's a sound guy (to be sure you have a good sound experience), and the sound actually IS good. read more

It was friendly, welcoming, reasonably priced, and the performances were excellent. Did I mention fun?

Artichoke Music is the best for value in acoustic instruments and is a non- profit dedicated to its music classes, concerts and even has their own luthier for repairs. Their staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Consignments of acoustic instruments are taken. read more

Artichoke is a quaint, peculiar spot, and offers nothing special. I and my son came here to see one of our favorite local performers, and found out that this is a new location. It should not have been open yet the ADA entrance (one of two total entrances) was closed, posting a potential safety hazard (the "Exit" sign above it was lit, so this could have been a very bad thing had there been a fire). We were informed that Artichoke is a "not for profit" establishment by the MC, who also mentioned to the audience and that they were seeking volunteers (right after they told us that the entrance didn't work and where the restrooms were). This struck me as odd as part of it is a music shop that sells instruments. It was also very off-putting to hear the MC spend entirely too much time between performers soliciting potential business from those who may want to take music lessons, to repeatedly thank each volunteer by name (between every set), and to harp on the "donations" (not tip) jar. I'm all for supporting local establishments and artists (and tip generously); I don't need to be nagged about it at every opportunity. The MC throughout the night spent far too much time tooting Artichoke's horn, to the detriment of the overall experience. There are just a few tables, and they're arranged such that you'll get a good view of the performers regardless of where you sit. It is odd, though, that the main restroom is located directly next to the stage. Again, the MC admonished patrons to not use that restroom during performances. I wouldn't go out of my way to make Artichoke a destination, but if one of your favorites is playing there, and you're OK with an almost endless barrage of solicitations, guidelines for viewing the performances, etc., it's not a bad option. read more

Artichoke Music - This is the temporary stage as the space is still under construction. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Artichoke is a wonderful, small venue that makes for an excellent concert space where musicians and the audience both benefit from the intimacy. Attending a concert here, and seeing universally talented young performers playing almost all original compositions made me feel good about the future for the first time in a long time. Refreshing for the soul. read more

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We started attending the Friday evening Artichoke Coffeehouse at The Artichoke Cafe back in January and we've hardly missed a single one since. The owner, Richard Columbo & his partner Jim, are absolutely amazing as they so graciously offer themselves in complete devotion. You won't find a Taylor or a Gibson here but what you will find is quality. They are very helpful and will assist you in finding the musical instrument that is right for you. I have been so inspired by this place as to take up the guitar myself. Please come by in support of this wonderful music shop and musical venue and see the best talents in the Portland world of folk and Americana. read more

My 10 year-old son had this to say: I like how you are able to bring instruments and play with other musicians. I went to the Sunday Bluegrass Fiddle Jam and I brought my fiddle and played it with the other people. Also, everyone was very kind there and greeted me nicely when they noticed I had a fiddle. They said,"Looks like we have someone with a fiddle here today!" I had a good time participating and playing with them. I had a great time there, and so did my younger brother (he brought a fiddle as well). Overall, this is a great, fun place, and I'd highly recommend it to others. Thank you, Team Artichoke! read more

I love going to shows at Artichoke. The intimacy of the venue, quality of the music and spiritedness of the artists keep pulling me to return. A tall glass of cold Northwest cider and a jar of mixed nuts, and I'm happier than I am in any movie theater, not least because I'm supporting the live arts in my community. Highly recommended! read more

Megan Cronin - Awesome violin and fiddle teacher!!! If you've been playing violin/fiddle for a little while (that is, you can find your way around first position) and you're ready to make music with others at about the same level, then you should check-out Megan Cronin's weekly group class at Artichoke Music; Americana for Violin. Megan is a patient, knowledgeable teacher. The classes are relaxed and fun. She starts each term with a fresh batch of very accessible tunes. Megan is always organized and well-prepared. She provides melody and backup tracks to practice with between classes. We don't just work on melody, but also chords, style, and a little bit of improv too. Normally, the class meets at Artichoke Music in Portland,OR. Lately, the class has continued on Zoom. Even on Zoom, I'm having a lot fun playing new tunes and making progress. I highly recommend Megan's class. read more

If you're used to shopping at the big chain guitar stores than you will be A) blown away at the great customer service here, and B) be confused by their merchandise, because you will have never heard of the name brands they carry. Me?... I was both A and B. Don't come here expecting to find your kid some $100 piece of crap. Artichoke carries high quality instruments. None of the guitar that I fiddled around with gave me that "Yucky!" feeling. They all played smoothly and sounded wonderful. The staff is way knowledgeable and will help you find a great instructor for the style of music you want to learn. Come here expecting a great experience and be willing to throw down some cheddar. read more

This music school features top-notch teaching and a really sweet community. The newly remodeled space means that every class has a pleasant room to meet in. I've taken over a dozen classes (they are in 2 month terms) at Artichoke Music, with 5 different teachers. I especially swear by Anne Weiss for voice/harmony and Adrian Martin for guitar (and also "Playing Well with Others," which welcomes all instruments). I never thought of myself as being especially musically gifted.... but with patient and skilled teaching, I have gradually improved to a level that I didn't ever think I would reach. That's "solid intermediate" not anything fancy, just enough for my own personal enjoyment. My husband has taken Banjo and Ukulele classes here. The Irish Music class sounds great from down the hall. So many cool choices! read more

This place is amazing and Bob will take care of you in the best of ways no matter what your needs are. Highly recommend them for their service and expertise. I only wish I found them sooner. read more

I recently bought an entry level plastic ukulele at Artichoke. It didn't stay tuned, so I brought it back. They thought it may had been left in a hot car (not) and thus the warping. Regardless, they were most nice in giving me a credit towards a better Ukulele. I so much appreciate this level of service. You rock Artichoke! For you musicians, this is a great place to shop. read more

Looking for a banjo made out of cardboard? An African stringed thing made out of gnarled driftwood? A concertina? A luxurious $600 ukulele? A rarely-played tenor (4-string) banjo? A reproduction of a book of sheet music chronicling early American minstrel music, complete with racist caricatures? A jaw harp? Of course you're not! But if you were, this tiny music store specializing in folk and world instruments would be your best bet. It's stocked with beautiful and bizarre instruments that you've never heard of before, and it feels more like a birthday party than a retail establishment as instruments are pulled off the wall for one of the many jam sessions going on between customers and employees. read more

I wanted to give a music accessory to a friend at his going away party. The item was available through several online retailers for $35 with free shipping, but I prefer to support local businesses, so I called Artichoke to see if they had it. They didn't have it in stock, but offered to special order it, and said they could get it "really fast." Their price was $50, but what the heck, I like to support local businesses. This was six business days before the event, I told them, and they said they'd have it in three days. On the third day, I called, and they said no item, they'll call me when it's in. Same the next day. On the fifth day, I called and asked if they could track their shipment to find out if it would arrive in time. They said there was no way to guarantee when it would arrive. Finally I apologized and told them I'd need to go buy this elsewhere, and asked to cancel my order. Clearly annoyed, they refunded my card, and then slammed down the phone as I tried to thank them. I hadn't been rude and was trying to help solve the problem, so that response was a shock, and gave me the strong impression they didn't want my business. Next time I need a small item, I'll probably just order online, and when I need to make a large purchase like a guitar, I'll choose a different local shop. read more

All I did here was buy some strings and I walked out feeling totally inspired. The owner was courteous enough to show my boyfriend and I around the shop after kicking some annoying kids out and took us back to this amazing, hidden venue behind the store where they hold concerts and open mics 3 days per week. He also let me play with any instrument I was interested in, even though I'm just a guitar player. I never felt rushed or pressured to buy anything. I've always gotten lost in music stores since I was little, and this case was no different. I could have stayed in the shop all day. P.S. The house brand light acoustic strings play beautifully! read more

Artichoke Music not only supplies high-end musical instruments (beautiful wooden guitars, ukeleles, and other folk instruments), they also teach you how to play them. Here you can take lessons to learn how to play the button accordian, the piano accordian, the banjo, the bodhran, the bass, cello, folk harp, hammered dulcimer, harmonica, irish flute and pennywhistle, mandolin, mountain dulcimer, piano, ukelele, violin, and the musical saw. Tell me, who else is going to teach you how to play the pennywhistle or the musical saw? Artichoke also has a "backstage caf" where you can see some professionals play these beautiful and bizarre folk instruments. read more

I really didn't know anything about strong instruments--specifically Mandolins but wanted to get into it,l. These folks didn't make me feel terrible for not knowing anything at all and helped guide me through the selecting process and was very honest about things they didn't know about. They spent some time just playing each instrument I was interested in just so I can get a feel of how things sounded. I would recommend this place to anyone. read more

*this review is for the listening room/bar in the back of the music store* As far as venues go, there are a few key components that have to be good: 1) The sound system needs to be legit.. Artichoke has this going on. Clear sound coming from heavy duty speakers, an adept sound man working the system as well. 2) The place needs to have a good feel. They've got this too! It's a spacious roomy room, with mood lighting and a cool bar area. The host is friendly and welcoming, the musicians were showed a lot of respect. 3) It needs to be accessible Meaning: the rose garden may be a good venue but it'll cost you $100 to see a show there. Meanwhile, there are amazing acts and musicians here in Portland that are like, 1/10 of the cost. I think on average, Artichoke charges $5-$10 per show. In addition, they host a weekly open mic that folks can get involved in the performance scene at. Overall, great venue to play at or see a performance at - and heck, go get some new guitar strings in the store when you're finished. read more

This review is for CAFE ARTICHOKE COFFEEHOUSE FRIDAY NIGHT First time coming to the Friday night coffeehouse. We arrived a bit after starting time (7:30p) and were greeted with a dark space after walking through the back door to the cafe located behind the music shop. So many eyes on us looking at us like we're foreigners and the person sitting at the "front" didn't really bother greeting us. I had to ask if this is where we pay ($5/person) to get in. After that we had to walk awkwardly to the back since there were no seats left and the entrance is RIGHT next to the stage, poor placement. We were expecting a laid back, chat quietly amongst each other while local artists serenade us with their acoustics originals or song covers. But the place was set up like a small intimate dining experience, small tables with 4 chairs, candle lit, and everyone was dead quiet. Imagine walking in late with 13 or so tables looking at you. We were a party of 4 and there weren't any tables with enough open seats for us so we sat on the floor in the back. It was fine with us and later the event people did bring out more chairs but the place was so small, it was fine to sit on the floor. Would recommend if you just want to come listen but not if you want to also chat. Not a typical coffeehouse set up. And recommend you research the artists before if you can. We liked all of the ones we saw but the last one was a bit...unexpected. We really liked Riley Franks!!!!! read more

Artichoke Music - Riley Franks! Such a great voice and personality. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Oh I think Artichoke is an absolute hoot! I've never been to a show so can't speak to that, but have taken several sessions of classes and bought a seriously cool (I think!) Resonator guitar from the showroom. This place is much bigger than it looks from the street, with an impressive selection of stringed things. Plus great prices on classes for all levels, from non-intimidating absolute beginner on up, with skilled, patient instructors. And I've found the staff and management to be responsive, friendly and genuine. I'm signed up for two classes to start the new year; Delta Blues Slide Guitar so I can get some use out of my Resonator, and another round with Brenna's Flamenco class. Artichoke = too much fun! read more

This place is very, very Portland. The best of Portland. I've always gone in and tried out guitars off their wall. Then I went to the folk festival I saw the blurb for in the WW... Turns out they're trying to do community music teaching, and have coffee hour Friday nights. Tiny, tiny venue with very good guitarists. I'm a fan. I'm a tremendous fan. I can't afford to buy guitars here, but next time I need strings or yet another tuner or something.... This is where I'll get 'em. I feel places that try to strengthen their communities should be treasured. read more

hands-down, some of the best and friendliest customer service i've ever received, anywhere, and i'm serious about that. As well, for a novice ukelele player, not an eyelash was batted over my cheap beginner uke OR my current inability to do much with it (though he did let me know about the upcoming classes - and i WILL be going!). The guy even played a song on his banjo ukelele (and now I need to own one) for my baby daughter and gave her an egg shaker to take home. Prices are a tad higher here on some items than in some other places (perhaps because it's small and can't order the high volume required to keep costs down) but honestly? it's worth paying a few bucks extra to support this awesome, friendly, high-quality and community-focused place. in world of chain stores with cheap product and people behind the counter half your age who call you dude, this place is a real, real gem, run with unsurpassed friendliness and class. now let's hope i can string the damn thing myself. otherwise, i'll be back there tomorrow (and if i wasn't going out of town in the morning that wouldn't be such a bad thing, anyway). read more

I know nothing about musical instruments, which is why I was so happy that the kind folks in Artichoke helped me pick out a birthday present for a friend, steering me away from spending too much money, and helping me out with tuning it. I can't recommend them highly enough! Of course, their folk music events (check their website) are something special too! read more

I'm not a musician, but my wife and kids are and we have visited many of the guitar shops on Portland's East side. The staff are helpful, friendly, and don't mind if you hang around without buying anything. They have a good variety of acoustic guitars and other string instruments at all price levels. What a great location! I've left my teenagers there to try out guitars and ukuleles while I went down the block to Cross Roads and shopped for vinyl records. Cubo de Cuba has good food and a nice patio next door. Although on street parking is usually pretty good on this block, they have a small parking lot that they share with Cubo. We dropped in to their performance space last night for the first time and had a nice time. There seems to be a home grown community of regulars who are very welcoming and really love acoustic music. This volunteer run show room provides a place where local musicians can enjoy music, perform, and build community. My wife is interested in volunteering and we will definitely be back. I was excited to learn that they have a flamenco group that performs here the last Saturday of each month! I can't wait! read more

Wonderful source for all things musical, and more than reasonably priced. Any range of instrument can be found here. I was so impressed when I stopped in the first time. I bought an aeolian wind harp from them for next to nothing and have been so pleased read more

Wonderful non-profit organization that offers music classes, a full music store and an excellent venue. This place has been around for 40+ years and has been a pinnacle of the Portland folk music scene. I recently attended the open mic night (Thursdays) and found it to super supportive with a wide range of musicians and talent. Their music shop is great too, lots of acoustic instruments and accessories. read more

I recently chose to take a class at Artichoke Music and had a problem. I called Bob Howard and he was AMAZING! He talked me through the registration process and I never once got the feeling that he was judging me because of my lack of computer skills. He has a great personality and learning from him was pure joy! Thank you Bob, I hope to meet you some day. You are the epitome of excellence customer service! read more

Love this place. It's a store, yes, but now it's really a school. Yes, a school of folk music here in PDX. AND a concert venue. AND an open-house venue. It's many things, all rolled up into one lovely establishment on that part of Hawthorne that most people don't go to, by the Chinese grocery that never seems to be open and that you may suspect to be a front for something. Go there. Buy musical instruments. Take lessons for those instruments. Watch people play many instruments. Play your instrument. Ahem. Ok, why not. Play your instrument in-front of other people! read more

Wonderful uniquely different music store. New and used instruments. They have some nice guitars but they also carry mandolins, dulcimers, recorders, etc. , some of these kinds of instruments I've never seen before. Ray is really knowledgeable and friendly, he was a real pleasure to talk to. Definitely a great place to stop by whether you're a musician or just curious. read more

This is probably my all-time favorite guitar store. When I lived in Portland I visited often. They have a lot of beautifully crafted wooden instruments: guitars, mandolins, ukeleles, etc. I bought a hand-made maple Art Lutherie guitar there, and I had it for years. They could have a slightly larger supply of Martins, but, this place has so much personality, and the staged area has some cool shows too. I saw Martin Sexton there. If I had ever followed through with my pipe dream for building my own guitar store, Artichoke Music would have been my model. read more

Artichoke is a huge asset to the neighborhood. It is one of the only places I know of that amateur and beginning musicians have a place and times to get together to practice playing. The way that most people in our modern US culture is as an audience, but at Artichoke, a person can transition from being a passive listener to participating and making music with the encouragement and acceptance of the Saturday workshop leaders and private music teachers. Singing and playing music is a daily activity in many cultures, and our culture would be richer with more people participating in making music, instead of listening to processed, autotuned music. Artichoke is a bridge to a more musical culture. read more

Always a great experience here, and a nice selection of guitars including consignments. Esp grateful for help restringing my guitar.

Artichoke Music is the only music store I've ever been in that actually makes you excited about making music. The owner, Richard met me as I walked in and after I told him I was trying to learn bluegrass banjo, he immediately handed me a banjo and let me play with it. He came back over to me a short while later and grabbed a guitar to play with me. I told him I could barely form a chord, but, no matter, he insisted on leading me through a tune, showing me how easy it really is. I was there about an hour and left feeling like I really could play. I came back the next day and bought the beautiful Deering banjo I was playing the previous day. Needless to say, I spent A couple more hours there playing and talking and drinking coffee. One of the little kids Richard was teaching uke to (he offers classes), sat next to me and wanted to jam. It's a very warm atmosphere in that store. Artichoke also actively supports community building through music (a non-profit organization that is connected with the store). I can hardly wait to go back. read more

Unfriendly and unapproachable manager. More interested in twiddling his thumbs behind the counter than offering up advice...sucks too, since there were some cool instruments. read more

Three of us rented space to play our ukuleles for two hours today. We were given a tour of all the practice rooms and store from Deb. We were given the coffee house space for our get together which was spacious and wonderful. Great time, reasonable prices and friendly and helpful staff. Look forward to returning! read more

Friendly, knowledgeable, no-pressure staff. You're welcome to come in, pick an instrument off the wall, have a seat and play without anyone hovering. I bought a uke and basic cord book for beginners. I appreciated staff not trying to "up-sell" me in to buying more than I needed. I was told that if I decided to up grade later, they'd be happy to buy my uke back. Oh, and there's free classes/groups for folks wanting to play together. Shop here! read more

I've been to a lot of guitar shops in my day and this really ranks up there as one of the best. They don't have a huge selection but definitely have something for everybody and it's all great quality. The used selection really impressive. I fell in love with this very cool old Gibson from the 40's. They were very patient with me as I agonized over whether to buy or not to buy. The best part about this shop are the people working there and the great vibe they create. It is really a strong community scene in this shop. read more