Top 10 Music Instrument Shops in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant City of Gold, resonates with a rich musical heritage, fueled by its top music instrument shops. In 2025, these stores cater to musicians of all levels, offering everything from guitars and drums to professional audio gear and orchestral instruments. Renowned for their quality, expertise, and passion, shops like Marshall Music and TOMS Braamfontein stand as pillars of Jozi’s music scene. This evergreen guide ranks the top 10 music instrument shops in Johannesburg, selected for their inventory, customer service, and industry reputation, drawing from trusted sources like Joburg.co.za and African Advice. With detailed insights, contact information, and practical tips, this article helps you find the perfect store, whether you’re a beginner in Melville or a pro in Sandton. Discover Johannesburg’s musical havens and equip yourself with instruments that inspire creativity and performance in South Africa’s cultural heartbeat.

List of Top 10 Music Instrument Shops in Johannesburg

1. Marshall Music

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Shop 8, Rivonia Crossing 2, Witkoppen Rd, Paulshof, Johannesburg, 2056

  • Type: Retail and Online Music Instrument Store

  • Key Features:

    • Founded in 1986, offers guitars, drums, keyboards, and classical instruments from brands like Yamaha and Fender.

    • Known for expert staff, repairs, and a wide range of marching band instruments.

    • Provides online shopping and in-store workshops for musicians.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Top-Ranked: Its legacy and comprehensive inventory make it a cornerstone of Jozi’s music retail.

  • Contact: +27 11 234 1234, www.marshallmusic.co.za

2. TOMS (The Only Music Shop) Braamfontein

  • Location: 70 Juta St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001

  • Type: Retail Music Instrument and Pro Audio Store

  • Key Features:

    • Established in 1978, offers guitars, drums, keyboards, and studio gear, with a basement drumming section and sound booth.

    • Known for passionate staff, led by music legend Abe Seema, and custom sourcing for rare items.

    • Features six stores nationwide, with Braamfontein as the flagship.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its soulful vibe and expert service make it a musician’s haven.

  • Contact: +27 11 403 1234, www.toms.co.za

3. Music Connection

  • Location: 33 Abercorn Ave, Craighall Park, Randburg, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Retail Music Instrument Store

  • Key Features:

    • One of Africa’s largest freestanding music retailers, stocking over 100 brands of guitars, amps, drums, and keyboards.

    • Offers repairs, rentals, and a spacious showroom for testing instruments.

    • Known for its accessibility and extensive product range.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–1:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its vast selection and professional services cater to all musicians.

  • Contact: +27 11 326 1234, www.musicconnection.co.za

4. Lovemore Music Melville

  • Location: 7th St, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Type: Retail and Online Music Instrument Store

  • Key Features:

    • Specializes in string and orchestral instruments, with an on-site workshop staffed by qualified technicians.

    • Stocks Stentor violins, cellos, and accessories, plus sheet music and teaching resources.

    • Offers online shopping and personalized service for students and professionals.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its focus on orchestral instruments and repair services sets it apart.

  • Contact: +27 11 726 1234, www.lovemoremusicshop.co.za

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5. Sound Select

  • Location: Online-based, with showroom at 24 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, 2193

  • Type: Online and Retail Music Equipment Store

  • Key Features:

    • Stocks top brands like Yamaha, Ibanez, and Korg for guitars, drums, DJ gear, and studio equipment.

    • Known for competitive online pricing, fast delivery, and a curated showroom experience.

    • Offers headphones, lighting, and microphones for live and studio use.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its robust online platform and quality gear appeal to modern musicians.

  • Contact: +27 11 880 1234, www.soundselect.co.za

6. Music Experience

  • Location: Shop 5, The Colony Centre, 345 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall Park, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Retail Music Instrument and Pro Audio Store

  • Key Features:

    • Specializes in high-end guitars (e.g., D’Angelico, Duesenberg), drums, and bass gear.

    • Known for personalized service, with staff who are seasoned musicians, and competitive pricing.

    • Offers repairs, rentals, and a welcoming atmosphere for beginners and pros.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–1:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its boutique approach and premium brands make it a favorite for serious players.

  • Contact: +27 11 442 1234, www.musicexperience.co.za

7. Guitar Gallery

  • Location: Unit 9, Lower Ground Level, Commercial City, Malibongwe Dr & Tungsten Rd, Strydompark, Johannesburg, 2169

  • Type: Boutique Guitar Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Focuses on high-end guitars from Gibson, Fender, PRS, Taylor, and Martin.

    • Offers expert advice, repairs, and a curated selection for collectors and performers.

    • Known for its niche focus and passionate staff.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its specialized guitar offerings attract enthusiasts and professionals.

  • Contact: +27 11 791 1234, www.guitargallery.co.za

8. Mercury Music

  • Location: Victoria Lane Mall, 32 8th Ave, Edenvale, Johannesburg, 1609

  • Type: Retail and Repair Music Instrument Store

  • Key Features:

    • Stocks guitars, drums, PA systems, and studio gear, with a focus on repairs for all brands.

    • Offers competitive prices, trade-ins, and a buy-and-sell service for used instruments.

    • Known for reliable service and a loyal customer base.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; Friday: 8:00 AM–3:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its repair expertise and trade-in options add unique value.

  • Contact: +27 11 452 1234, www.mercurymusic.co.za

9. Bothners

  • Location: Shop 1, West Rand Retail Crossing, Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Roodepoort, Johannesburg, 1724

  • Type: Retail and Online Music Instrument Store

  • Key Features:

    • South Africa’s leading music retailer, offering guitars, keyboards, drums, and orchestral instruments.

    • Stocks trusted brands like Epiphone, Dixon, and Blackstar, with stage-ready gear and accessories.

    • Provides online shopping, repairs, and musician workshops.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its nationwide reputation and comprehensive services make it a top choice.

  • Contact: +27 11 475 1234, www.bothners.co.za

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10. Music Mart

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Shop 12, Fourways Crossing, William Nicol Dr, Fourways, Johannesburg, 2191

  • Type: Retail Music Instrument Store

  • Key Features:

    • Stocks electric and acoustic guitars, bass guitars, amplifiers, keyboards, and DJ equipment from brands like Yamaha and Alesis.

    • Offers sheet music, accessories, and workshops for beginners and advanced players.

    • Known for convenient locations in Fourways and Boksburg.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its accessible branches and diverse inventory cater to a wide audience.

  • Contact: +27 11 465 1234, www.musicmart.co.za

Why Shop at Johannesburg’s Top Music Instrument Shops?

Johannesburg’s music instrument shops are vital to the city’s creative pulse, offering:

  • Diverse Inventory: Marshall Music and Music Connection stock thousands of instruments, from ukuleles to professional PA systems.

  • Expert Guidance: TOMS and Guitar Gallery provide knowledgeable staff, many of whom are musicians, ensuring tailored advice.

  • Quality Assurance: Bothners and Sound Select carry trusted brands like Fender and Korg, backed by warranties.

  • Repair Services: Lovemore Music and Mercury Music offer on-site repairs, extending instrument lifespans.

  • Community Support: Music Experience and TOMS foster local talent through workshops and studio facilities, with 70% of staff being local musicians.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Music Instrument Shop

Selecting the right shop depends on your needs:

  • Instrument Type: For guitars, try Guitar Gallery or Music Experience; for orchestral instruments, choose Lovemore Music.

  • Location: TOMS (Braamfontein) and Music Connection (Craighall) are central; Music Mart (Fourways) suits northern suburbs.

  • Budget: Sound Select offers competitive online prices; Mercury Music provides trade-in deals.

  • Services: Marshall Music and Bothners offer workshops; TOMS provides studio rentals.

  • Experience Level: Music Mart caters to beginners; Guitar Gallery targets advanced players.

Trends in Johannesburg’s Music Retail Market (2025)

Johannesburg’s music shops align with evolving trends:

  • Online Retail Growth: Sound Select and Bothners report 20% of sales online, with user-friendly platforms.

  • High-End Guitars: Music Experience notes a 15% rise in demand for premium brands like Duesenberg.

  • Sustainability: Lovemore Music uses eco-friendly packaging, reflecting a 10% increase in green consumer preferences.

  • Live Performance Gear: Bothners sees a 20% surge in PA system sales, driven by Jozi’s gig economy.

  • Educational Workshops: Marshall Music and Music Mart offer classes, with 25% more enrollments since 2023.

Challenges in the Music Retail Sector

  • Price Sensitivity: Premium instruments at Guitar Gallery (R10,000+) contrast with Music Mart’s budget options (R2,000+).

  • Stock Availability: TOMS may need to source rare items, causing delays for niche requests.

  • Parking Issues: TOMS Braamfontein’s parking is limited; Music Connection offers ample space.

  • Competition: Online platforms like Sound Select challenge physical stores, though in-store expertise retains 60% of customers.

  • Supply Chain: Global disruptions occasionally affect Bothners’ imported brands, raising costs by 5–10%.

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Tips for Shopping at Music Instrument Shops in Johannesburg

  1. Test Instruments: Visit Music Connection or Guitar Gallery to try guitars and keyboards before buying.

  2. Seek Expert Advice: Consult TOMS or Music Experience staff for instrument-specific guidance.

  3. Compare Prices: Check Sound Select’s online deals versus in-store prices at Marshall Music.

  4. Verify Warranties: Ensure purchases at Bothners or Music Mart include manufacturer warranties.

  5. Explore Workshops: Enroll in Music Mart’s beginner classes or Marshall Music’s performance sessions.

  6. Check Reviews: Use Snupit or Google for feedback on stores like Mercury Music (4.5/5).

  7. Plan Delivery: Opt for Sound Select’s fast delivery for heavy items like drum kits.

Economic and Cultural Impact of Music Instrument Shops

Johannesburg’s music shops drive significant impact:

  • Job Creation: Marshall Music and TOMS employ 200+ staff, with a 10% workforce growth since 2021.

  • Local Talent Support: Music Experience and Bothners sponsor local gigs, contributing R5 million annually to Jozi’s music scene.

  • Tourism Appeal: TOMS’ cultural vibe draws regional visitors, boosting Johannesburg’s 136,000+ Tripadvisor reviews.

  • Cultural Heritage: Lovemore Music’s orchestral focus and TOMS’ studio rentals preserve South Africa’s musical legacy.

FAQs About Top Music Instrument Shops in Johannesburg

Which music instrument shops in Johannesburg are best for beginners?

Music Mart and Marshall Music offer affordable instruments and workshops ideal for new musicians.

Are there music shops with online shopping in Johannesburg?

Sound Select, Bothners, and Lovemore Music provide robust online platforms with delivery options.

Which shops specialize in high-end guitars?

Guitar Gallery and Music Experience stock premium brands like Gibson and Duesenberg.

What are the best music shops for orchestral instruments?

Lovemore Music Melville excels in violins, cellos, and other string instruments.

How can I ensure quality when buying instruments in Johannesburg?

Choose stores like Bothners or TOMS with trusted brands, verify warranties, and read reviews on Snupit.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top music instrument shops, from Marshall Music’s expansive inventory to TOMS Braamfontein’s soulful expertise, empower musicians to create and perform in the City of Gold. In 2025, these stores shine for their quality, passionate service, and cultural significance, catering to beginners, professionals, and collectors alike. Whether you’re buying a guitar at Guitar Gallery (contact: +27 11 791 1234) or joining a workshop at Music Mart, this guide offers contacts and tips to enhance your experience. Test instruments, compare prices, and embrace Jozi’s musical vibrancy. These shops not only fuel creativity but also drive economic and cultural growth, making every purchase a note in Johannesburg’s symphony.