Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Musical Instruments and Expert Music Instruction
Founded in 1931, Ted Brown Music has dedicated over nine decades to empowering music creators across the Pacific Northwest. Our mission centers on removing barriers to musical engagement through expert guidance, quality instruments, and community-focused initiatives. With six strategically located stores, we offer personalized support for musicians at every skill levelfrom beginners rediscovering childhood instruments to professionals seeking cutting-edge gear. Our comprehensive services include specialized instrument repair by master technicians, tailored private lessons, and a state-wide school instrument rental program. The TBM Outreach initiative, established in 2007, has distributed over 1,600 instruments to underserved students, reflecting our commitment to music accessibility.Our AVL division delivers advanced audio-visual solutions for institutional clients, while our e-commerce platform ensures convenient access to thousands of products. Recognized by Music Inc. magazine as industry leaders, we maintain family-owned values while embracing technological innovation. Every service we providefrom custom engraving to commercial installationsaligns with our core philosophy that music creation should be universally accessible. With deep roots in Tacoma's University District and beyond, we continue evolving to meet modern musicians' needs while honoring Ted Brown's original vision of community enrichment through music.
Services
Private Lessons
Instrument Repair
Instrument Rentals
Educational Services
Financing Options
Commercial Installation
Outreach Program
Details
- Year established: 1931
Highlights and features
- We've served Pacific Northwest musicians for over 90 years with unmatched expertise
- Our master repair technicians specialize in every instrument category
- TBM Outreach has donated 1,600+ instruments to underserved students since 2007
- Family-owned business maintaining personalized service standards since 1931
- Full-service AVL solutions for schools, houses of worship, and institutions
Services
Private Lessons
Our certified instructors provide personalized music lessons for all skill levels and instruments. With experienced educators specializing in guitar, violin, drums, and more, we help students develop technical proficiency and musical creativity. Lessons accommodate both traditional and contemporary styles to match individual learning goals.
Instrument Repair
Master technicians handle complete instrument restoration and maintenance for woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion. Our repair shop offers custom engraving services and uses premium materials to ensure optimal instrument performance. Specialized services include acoustic guitar setup and vintage instrument restoration.
Educational Services
Dedicated representatives assist school music programs with instrument selection, classroom resources, and rental program management. We provide bulk purchasing options and specialized equipment consultations for band and orchestra directors across Washington State.
Commercial Installation
Our AVL division installs professional audio, visual, and lighting systems for educational institutions, houses of worship, and government buildings. Services include system design, equipment procurement, and integration of digital media solutions for large-scale venues.
Outreach Program
The TBM Outreach initiative provides free instruments and summer music camps to economically disadvantaged students. Since 2007, this 501(c)(3) program has distributed over 1,600 instruments, ensuring equitable access to music education opportunities across the Pacific Northwest.
Questions
What types of musical instruments do you carry?
We offer complete selections of band/orchestra instruments, guitars, ukuleles, drums, keyboards, and professional audio equipment. Our inventory includes both acoustic and electric instruments across all price ranges.
Do you provide instrument repair services?
Yes, our master repair technicians service all instrument categories including string instruments, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. We also offer custom engraving and restoration services.
Are music lessons available for beginners?
Absolutely! Our private lessons program accommodates all skill levels from absolute beginners to advanced musicians. Instructors specialize in various genres and teaching methods to match individual learning styles.
Do you support school music programs?
Yes, our Educational Services team provides instrument rentals, classroom resources, and program support to schools across Washington State. We maintain a dedicated school instrument rental program.
What payment options do you offer?
We accept major credit cards and offer financing options for larger purchases. Our financing program helps customers acquire instruments and equipment with manageable payment plans.
How can I access the outreach program?
Contact our Tacoma headquarters to connect with TBM Outreach representatives. This 501(c)(3) program provides free instruments and summer camps to qualifying students across the Pacific Northwest.
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Reviews (5)
Jeff P.
Mar 31, 2022
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Ted Brown has been a part of my musical journey throughout my life! Although I have played a number of their guitars--and also banjos, in a former life--I have mostly purchased accessories and electronics over the decades. I have always been made to feel welcome, and offered advice and guidance by the highly trained staff in the most sincere way. There has never been a sense that I have disappointed or wasted anyone's time when I have left with no more than a set of strings or an inexpensive strap. These guys are wonderful, and have been an essential part of the NW Music scene--including School Music programs--for generations. Thank you, Ted Brown folks!
Jason Leland
Mar 17, 2022
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James was extremely helpful and very knowledgeable. Came in with so many questions and he was able to answer all of them and help us get everything we needed
Wayne Swanson
Mar 08, 2022
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I love this place! In a world filled with big box stores with untrained staff, this place stands out as special. It's a true music store that sells a wide variety of musical instruments with friendly knowledgeable staff and excellent repair specialists.
Travis Romney
Mar 08, 2022
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Gary helped me purchase a couple of guitars. I hadnt played in a long long time and he made buying a pleasure. Also, ask him to play something. he's pretty good.
Terry Hoffmam
Feb 19, 2022
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Gary Allen was extremely helpful in my purchase of a Loar mandolin. Very friendly and, answered all my questions and, checked the instrument over for me to make sure it was what I wanted. Great deal on the mandolin, very satisfied, would do business again. Every one of the staff members that I talked to and, dealt with were excellent, helpful and accommodating to my every want and need!
