A Legacy of Music Since 1864
Welcome to Hickies Music Store, one of the UK’s longest-standing independent music retailers. Established in 1864, we have been at the heart of the music scene for over 150 years, serving musicians, students, and professionals with a dedication that has stood the test of time. Our journey has been shaped by a deep love for music, a commitment to customer service, and a passion for bringing high-quality musical instruments to the community.
Whether you are picking up your first guitar, upgrading to a professional piano, or seeking expert advice on your next musical investment, Hickies Music Store has been the trusted choice for generations. With a strong community focus and a history of supporting musicians at every stage of their journey, we continue to serve customers from our locations in Reading and Tiverton, as well as through our online store, offering a comprehensive and convenient shopping experience.
Your One-Stop Shop for Musical Instruments and Accessories
At Hickies, we take pride in offering a wide selection of high-quality musical instruments and accessories, sourced from some of the most reputable brands in the industry. Whether you are a beginner exploring the world of music for the first time or an experienced musician looking to refine your sound, we have something to suit every level and style.
- Guitars and Basses – A comprehensive range of acoustic, electric, bass, and classical guitars, along with an extensive collection of accessories such as amplifiers, pedals, straps, and strings.
- Pianos and Keyboards – From digital pianos for modern convenience to traditional upright and grand pianos for classical enthusiasts, we offer a selection that caters to both practice and performance needs.
- Drums and Percussion – Whether you prefer acoustic or electronic drum kits, our collection ensures drummers of all skill levels can find the perfect setup. We also provide a variety of cymbals, drumsticks, and percussion instruments.
- Brass and Woodwind Instruments – A carefully curated selection of trumpets, trombones, saxophones, clarinets, flutes, and more, catering to both students and professional musicians.
- Folk and Orchestral Instruments – A variety of stringed and folk instruments including ukuleles, violins, mandolins, and banjos, offering versatility across genres and playing styles.
- Accessories and Sheet Music – A full range of essential accessories such as strings, cases, stands, tuners, metronomes, and sheet music for various instruments and skill levels.
If you are unsure about which instrument or accessory best suits your needs, our expert team is always available to offer professional guidance. Our staff members are passionate musicians themselves and take great pleasure in helping customers find the right equipment to match their musical aspirations.
More Than Just a Music Shop – Our Services
At Hickies, we believe that music should be accessible to everyone, and that’s why we offer a range of additional services designed to support musicians throughout their journey.
- Instrument Rentals – We understand that purchasing a musical instrument can be a significant investment. To make things easier, we offer flexible rental options, allowing you to try out instruments before committing to a purchase. This is especially beneficial for students and beginners who may be exploring different musical paths.
- Repairs and Maintenance – Keeping your instrument in top condition is essential for optimal performance. Our professional repair services ensure that everything from restringing guitars to restoring pianos is carried out with the highest level of expertise and care.
- Music Lessons – Learning to play an instrument is a rewarding experience, and our tuition programs cater to students of all ages and abilities. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, our experienced instructors provide tailored lessons to help you achieve your musical goals.
- Take It Away Scheme – As part of our commitment to making music more accessible, we proudly participate in the Take It Away scheme. This initiative provides interest-free loans to help spread the cost of purchasing a musical instrument, ensuring that financial constraints do not stand in the way of musical ambition.
Why Choose Hickies?
There are many reasons why musicians continue to choose Hickies Music Store as their go-to destination for instruments, accessories, and advice:
- Over 150 Years of Experience – As a family-run business with a long-standing reputation, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to everything we do.
- Personalised Service – Unlike large chain stores, we offer a highly personal and customer-focused experience, ensuring that every musician receives tailored advice and support.
- Comprehensive Selection – We stock a diverse range of high-quality instruments and accessories, catering to all styles, skill levels, and budgets.
- Community-Oriented – Our passion for music extends beyond sales. We actively support local musicians, schools, and students, fostering a vibrant and thriving musical community.
- Independent and Trusted – As an independent music store, we are committed to delivering honest recommendations and genuine customer care, ensuring that each purchase is made with confidence.
Visit Us In-Store or Shop Online
We welcome you to visit us in person at our physical store locations, where you can browse our selection, try out instruments, and speak to our friendly team. If visiting in-store isn’t an option, our online shop offers a seamless browsing and purchasing experience, delivering quality musical instruments straight to your door.
- Reading Store – 153 Friar Street, Reading, RG1 1HE
- Tiverton Store – Lowman Way, Tiverton, EX16 6SR
- Online Store – www.hickies.co.uk
- Contact Us – If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are always happy to help.
Hickies Music Store is more than just a place to buy instruments – it is a hub for musicians, a trusted partner for learners, and a community dedicated to the love of music. Whether you are just starting out or are an experienced player, we invite you to be part of our story and continue the tradition of making great music. Visit us today and let us help you find the perfect instrument to bring your musical vision to life.