Love this place! Bought a Gibson ES Supreme here that I really love. Been back many times for other stuff as well. John is an awesome guy, super patient and knowledgeable. Honorable group of folks here. read more

It's such a great place. I've been going there for years for guitar strings and, more recently, for a major repair of my late mother's vintage classical guitar. They did such a great job, and they have the most lovely staff there (I mean ALL of them), but I had a special interaction with Ben, who helped me out and found me a used guitar case for a good price (which I needed desperately). I highly recommend this store. It's the kind of service you just don't get anymore. Everyone there really cares. Go there before any other big box stores. You'll thank me later. read more

Instrumental Music - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Thousand Oaks, California

I really appreciate the work and care that John and the staff take. It's so awesome to visit a store with staff that knows a bunch about instruments and with a cool selection! read more

Knowledgeable and gracious staff. I have purchased three guitars from them. They have a great technician who has performed work on my guitars read more

I had a great experience here. I'm not a musician but I want my son to be one. Ben helped me find the right guitar for my little guy, he tuned it for him too. read more

Instrumental Music - Entrance - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Thousand Oaks, California

Customer service is non existent from what I think was the owner, older man named John. I walked in asking for guidance for my son's first electric guitar. He quickly handed us off the a younger taller man who just like John lacked the customer service skills. I explained we had been referred to them, pointed us to a basic entry level kit and when I asked what other options there were, he said you can look on that wall and there. After that he was done and walked off. While in there I met another customer that gave us some basic on electric guitars, asked what my son is playing and made some suggestions. Luckily for us, another employee walked past us, this time a lady. She smiled and asked if we had been helped, I explained the situation and she walked us through the process. I ended spending almost 1k. Its sad to say it but I won't go back there again, I shouldn't feel like I need to beg for someone to give me 10min of their attention( the place was almost empty) while we figure out what we are looking for. read more

Hands down, the best place in the Conejo Valley, or Ventura County for that matter, to shop for new and preowned guitars and amplifiers; no need to go to the Valley or the west side.... Everything a seasoned musician, hobbyist, as well as beginners, need is here. read more

My son and I have been visiting this store for some time now, and always enjoy every trip we take here! It's a bit of a hike for us, but the selection is fantastic and the pricing is very competitive, so the drive is totally worth it for us. We have bought a number acoustic and electric guitars, as well as, a bunch of other gear here, and appreciate all the help that John and his staff have given us along the way! read more

It is hard to put into words how incredible this store is. In the current era of instrument shopping, where we are mostly limited to spending our dollars at impersonal corporate chains or online, and experiences most often range from entirely neutral at best, to adversarial at worst, Instrumental Music in Thousand Oaks is a true diamond in the rough. The atmosphere is immediately welcoming to musicians of all skill levels, the staff are attentive, knowledgeable, helpful, and generous, and the store's ethos of people over profits clearly shines through in the way they treat and interact with their customers. I have been to many guitar stores throughout the US, and this one stands head and shoulders above the rest. John helped me pick out a beautiful acoustic guitar, answering questions, providing guidance, and  never pushing too hard or making things uncomfortable in order to make a sale, I could spend paragraphs extolling the virtues of this store but to save us time, I will simply say that this store is a true delight, whose longevity I believe is worth ensuring by making the choice and effort to support with my patronage, and I would recommend the same to you. read more

First time going here and I'm blown away by the experience. Drove 30 miles to check out a few guitars that I couldn't find in stock anywhere else and love the huge selection. Helpful staff and I'm very happy with the Tele that I bought. I'll definitely be coming back often. read more

Best customer service. The guys are so helpful here. Music lessons are offered at various times. Lots of guitars to choose from. The crew here has been so helpful to me being a new student. So happy to have found this place. Thank you for all the care and help. Lifetime customer here!!! Thank you again. Madelin. read more

The store has plenty of guitar models to choose from which a customer is free to play/test as long and as often as needed to make a choice.

After years and years and thousands &thousands of dollars spent being relegated to dealing with the incompetence and lack of knowledge and attitude from the "big name" companies, it's wonderful to have a local business that is courteous, capable and competitively priced that also doesn't go thru employees like changing underwear. every time (at the others) I would develop a relationship and spend thousands of dollars with that salesman., the guy would quit (gee I wonder why). I've been dealing with John ever since shopping there, prior to him buying the business , even though he's the salesman, I usually go to, everyone has always been very, very helpful and knowledgeable. I highly recommend Instrumental Music Scott B read more

Bought a bass amp here and the place is super cool and nice. Definitely give this place a try for all your guitar needs.

I purchased a Boss RC-3 Loop Station here in the later part on June, right as the Covid-19 shutdowns were happening, and the store was remodeling. When I got home I realized my amp didn't have a effects loop and the sound from the effects going in the front end didn't sound good. So I returned it. I could tell John was bummed, so I said "I still wanted to spend the $200 in his store". After making a few laps around the store I decided on a Squier Affinity Telecaster covered in dust, and a Fender Gig bag. Upon inspection I noticed the action was very high and it made it difficult to play. John agreed and told me a setup was part of the purchase. He said he would call me the first week of July to have it done. When he didn't call by the 3rd week, I decided to stop in the store with my guitar. A guy that was smoking cigarettes outside came in and told me the setup couldn't be done due to the tech working from home. (Collecting unemployment and that extra $600 a month no doubt) I let him know John said he told me it would be done the first week of July because store bought guitars would have priority. He laughed and said there was nothing he could do. I let him know that I would pay for the setup myself and never buy another thing from Instrumental Music ever again. 10 minutes later I was at Guitar Center in Westlake. The tech told me to go get lunch and come back in one hour. I did and the action was great. $35 John, I want you to know that since that day in late July, I have purchased a Fender Blues Jr., 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Custom, 2020 Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster in Surf Blue over 3 color sunburst, 2020 Epiphone J45 Acoustic , Keeley compressor pedal, Polytune 3 tuner, Boss GT-100, Audio Technica headphones, 6 patch cables, pedal board, power supply, slides, picks, a dozen packs of NYXL XT strings, cleaners, polish, fretboard oil, and several hard cases. All of which you either stock or could have ordered for me. In the event you think I'm just talking out of my hind quarters, I've included a photo of me with a small part of the gear you could have sold me. read more

I have been buying my guitars for many years here! I promise you won't be disappointed! Everyone is helpful kind and knowledgeable!

Love coming in here! My dad told me about this place a while back. They're very welcoming, answer all questions and explain things thoroughly. read more

We had a wonderful experience buying a keyboard and all of the accessories at Instrumental Music. Every person was so helpful, kind and gave us a good price for everything we bought. We appreciated the sincerity and time they took to help us decide the various options. Never pushy-just supportive and knowledgeable. Thank you Liza, Ben and John!!! This was our first time at the store and we drove a distance to come and highly recommend this store. read more

In search of the Best guitar I could find and I Believe I got a what I was looking for. My Search Began by contacting John Vanselow "after hours". I sent a message via my computer and IMMEDIATELY received a response. My preference was a Martin Guitar; and, they had the best of Custom Made Martin's in stock. The moment I saw the KOA Wood custom made "one-of-a-kind" guitars I was hooked. As a matter of making my Experience Special, John offered a Discount to make it a Once In a Lifetime Experience. The staff prepped the Guitar to my exact needs and were Helpful in every way! read more

This place is the best . Great selection of instruments and a very helpful and friendly staff. Don't waste your time shopping for your musical needs anywhere else ! Gigi W read more

Decent store, but their security is a little lax. Jason Jones (Football-star-turned-Houston-Hood) once committed a holdup here. He left with a pretty good haul - a sick Ibanez axe, valued at over $2,000!!! i like their selection, but given how attractive this outlet is to dangerous criminals, i feel as though i'm putting my life in their hands when i shop here. read more

Instrumental Music - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Thousand Oaks, California

Worst experience purchasing an instrument ever. And they didn't make it right. They still have a chance to fix it, and change my review. But I've been waiting for three weeks now and it's been hell. Manager couldn't see the situation from my perspective. Only Colin was helpful. read more

I'm a big fan of Instrumental Music. I will always go out of my way to support a local small business. But I really like this team of people. They are always happy to greet you even if to say hello. They are careful not to hover over you every 5 minutes like Guitar Center staff does. There is no pressure to buy like with GC. They leave room for you to connect with the instrument. I believe that is monumental. I've purchased 2 guitars from Instrumental Music T.O. A Custom Shop Strat and a Gibson Les Paul R8. I'm very happy with both guitars. I feel like I should mention one more thing for those who have left reviews about pricing. The store has a policy that they will match pricing if the product is being sold for less elsewhere. You just have to talk to them about it. John (manager) is a nice guy and very knowledgeable and always willing to help. I've had lessons here too. Jym is great! Everyone in life should play at least one instrument. Life is better with music. Don't give up! Cheers! read more

Called ahead for reeds. Friendly staff. Lots of guitars and speakers. They also have lots of sheet music. Their sax accessories were limited. Mouth pieces were all standard size for students/beginners. read more

I have purchased guitars and amps. from this store over the years. The service has always been exceptional far getter than the national chains with matching, often lower pricing. If you like shopping with a professional staff and a great selection of instruments, this is your place to go. Steve S. read more

This is a quality independent music store. Worth the drive from Tarzana. They have all price ranges. They have a vast selection of guitars and basses. They keep the $4000 stuff away from the dirty hands. The staff is friendly, accommodating (they'll pull something down for you no problem), and they're not pushy. I Purchased two Mesa Boogie bass heads there. Prices were not better online. I have always enjoyed the buying experience in this store. I don't know anything about horns, key, or drums. read more

I have been doing business with this store for over 30yrs. I have always been treated with the utmost respect. All the employees go out of their way to help me with my various musical problems and give me great deals on my purchases whether it be picks or a new guitar. Wouldn't shop anywhere else. Rick Abbott read more

I worked here a while back. It is bittersweet! I was recently telling my husband my experience as employee here. I got sexually harassed on a daily basis belittled and I almost forgot about my Christmas present. The manager presented me with a bottle of Pedialyte as a slap in the face while everyone else got gift cards lol. the assistant manager used to slap my ass everyday in front of all the employees!! And while I was never fired they kept reducing my hours to where they said oh we will call you if we need you. that was only because I did not give a certain employee what that employee wanted, because I said no. This was back in the day times were different. now someone would have gotten slapped with a lawsuit. The things I do remember that were positive was purchasing a great keyboard synth, taking drums lessons and amazing guitar lessons. Funny how being so young can teach you many lessons. Thankfully I was presented in the future with the opportunity to become a successful music composer in film. read more

This is the perfect example of how to survive in the current age of online shopping; their excellent customer service combined with a great mix of inventory keeps me coming back. Kudos to John and his staff for raising the bar and providing local musicians a friendly and professional environment for all their music needs. I've purchased pickups, pedals, cables, etc and they've always steered me right. Regardless of whether you are a just browsing beginner, or a serious player, there are no bad vibes here; just a welcoming staff ready to support whatever your needs are. I'm a regular browser, occasional buyer, and will always support this store over the local GC's, which are simply a joke anymore. read more

Left my guitar for a "set up." Eleven days later, after hearing nothing, I stopped by and found they hadn't touched it. "I only work here two days a week" says the tech. "Want to leave it another week?" Nope! read more

I bought a microphone from these guys and realized that their prices are more than double what you can find on the internet. To top it off, no cash refunds on unopened boxes, only store credit. Lame!!! Got the mic home and it was a piece of junk and only got about 25% of what I paid for it on eBay. Skip this place unless you are in dire need of strings, otherwise hit the web to buy your stuff. read more

I love this place. The staff is awesome, especially Rogerio. I have purchased an ukulele and two guitars including my life long dream - a Martin D35 which he had shipped over. I must have been in 5 times to play just about every Martin and Taylor just to be sure I found "the one." Rogerio took the time to work with me, had a D28 shipped over to make sure I had a chance to play it alongside the D35. My daughter takes ukulele lessons and Jim is very patient; she looks forward to each weekly lesson. I will be bringing the Martin in soon for a set up as they did a great job breathing life back into my Takamine which was my first guitar and after 15 years and 9 moves into varying climates needed some tlc. Simply put, they took the time to learn my name, to answer my questions and in paying attention to the details have a customer for life. read more

Just picked up my 335 from the shop. Fabio did an amazing job. He's a kind, professional, talented man. Highly recommend him!!!

Had a great first experience. Having just gotten passionate about playing about six months ago, I have gotten everything I need online. But when I needed something quick, I was fully planning on heading to GC, but IM was on my way while running errands, and I always try to support the local businesses. Walking in, I made my way to the back of the store. Liza came from behind the counter to greet me and ask if I needed help. She was very knowledgeable, showed me the different options, and eventually pulled some inventory from the back for me. Thanks IM, I look forward to coming back soon. read more

You will be very happy that you found Instrumental music in Thousand Oaks,CA ! The staff is by far the nicest and more knowledgable than any music store in and around L.A. I have been shopping for a couple high end guitars and they are very helpful and patient! Always a nice hello when I come in and they are very attentive even when they get busy! Everyone in this store is great! I highly recommend a visit! I know several friends that take lessons and are regulars! read more

What a great find this store is! It's a bit hidden on the north side of Thousand Oaks Blvd. I happened to notice it while driving by, and filed that in my mind for later. Well, later came, as I was in the market for a new Fender Jazz bass, and they had one I'd never seen, a Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers) road-worn issue in gorgeous Shell Pink from the artist signature series (released July 2016). Lisa treated me like royalty, set me up to have a go with this bass and let me rumble the room a while. This store will not be undersold, so if you are looking for that special instrument, do the right thing: go here first, before thinking of that big-name bunch. Treat yourself right by visiting here, do the right thing, support your local businesses, trust me, they are there to help you. You won't establish a relationship with anyone at the big-name place like you will with a local outfit. Oh, I'm super-picky about what I'm shopping for. Instrumental Music had more diverse choices on electric bass guitars than that big-name bunch (I had just been there very recently, so the comparison is valid). Check out the high-line guitars in the separate locked room (ask to enter), they are loaded with amazing Les Pauls, PRS, Strats, etc. Friendly, welcoming, warm atmosphere, I'm definitely going back, and if you aren't in the area, it's worth the drive. Personal touch: Lisa likes to escort you to your car with your new baby, so she can bid you and the baby farewell, which is so cute. Thank you Instrumental Music Co! I love my new bass. read more

I had a great guitar buying experience at Instrumental Music. John was very helpful and really attended to my needs. I was so happy, that I bought another guitar per his recommendations and absolutely love it! Great shop, you will not be dissapointed! read more

Just picked up another amp at Instrumental Music. Best price - I shopped. I have purchased 2 Martin's that are very special. Great prices! Quality guitars. Just ask when you want to play aNy guitar- very accommodating. I got my Fender P Bass there also. They have a great selection and are not pushy nor hard sale. I am thankful to have such a great music store in Thousand Oaks. Highly recommend! Worth the drive if you are a little distant. read more

Be very careful, 1 employee sold us the wrong cable to the mic we bought. It was a very careless mistake. We got all the way home and couldnt use the mic we needed for tonight. Frustrating. read more

Best music store ever! Huge selection and fantastic staff--lots of help, great advice, top service and honest opinions. Great pricing--will not be undersold. Highly recommend! read more