Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Store in Columbia, SC
Founded in 1979 by Jerry and Debbie Sims, our business has grown from a local music shop into a premier destination for musicians across the East Coast. With decades of combined experience, we specialize in providing top-tier musical instruments, accessories, and educational services tailored to both beginners and professionals. Our team of industry experts ensures every customer receives personalized guidance, whether selecting their first guitar or upgrading studio equipment. We maintain a comprehensive repair shop staffed by certified technicians, guaranteeing instruments perform at their peak. Our commitment to quality extends to our vast inventory of trusted brands, including Fender, Yamaha, and Shure, available both in-store and online.As a family-owned business now led by third-generation musician Justin Sims, we prioritize customer relationships over transactions, treating every visitor as part of our musical community. Our educational programs offer lessons for nearly every instrument, taught by experienced instructors who adapt to individual learning styles. We pride ourselves on staying ahead of industry trends while maintaining the personalized service that built our reputation. From live sound equipment consultations to recording studio setup assistance, our expertise covers the full spectrum of musical needs. This dedication to excellence has made us a trusted name in music education and retail for over four decades.
Services
Guitar Sales
Drum Repair
Music Lessons
Studio Equipment
Instrument Rentals
Cable Accessories
Microphone Sales
Keyboard Services
Live Sound Gear
Online Ordering
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience serving musicians across the East Coast
- Our certified technicians provide expert instrument repair services
- We offer personalized music lessons for nearly every instrument
- Our inventory includes top brands like Fender, Yamaha, and Shure
- We provide free expert advice for studio and live sound equipment setup
What people say
Expert guidance
Wide selection
Qualified instructors
Prompt repairs
Family-friendly atmosphere
Services
Guitar Sales
We offer the East Coast's most comprehensive selection of acoustic and electric guitars from industry-leading brands like Fender, Gibson, and Martin. Our knowledgeable staff provides expert guidance to help musicians at every skill level find their perfect instrument. With both in-store and online purchasing options, we make acquiring premium guitars accessible to musicians nationwide.
Music Lessons
Our certified instructors provide personalized lessons for guitar, drums, keyboards, and more, catering to students from beginner to professional levels. We adapt teaching methods to individual learning styles, offering both in-person and virtual instruction options. This program supports musical growth through structured curriculum and performance opportunities.
Studio Equipment
We supply professional-grade studio equipment including microphones, interfaces, and monitors from brands like Focusrite, Presonus, and Shure. Our experts assist with system setup and optimization for home studios and professional facilities. We offer free technical support for equipment configuration and troubleshooting.
Instrument Repair
Our repair shop features certified technicians specializing in guitar, drum, and keyboard maintenance. Services include setups, part replacements, and restoration work for instruments of all ages. We use genuine manufacturer parts and provide detailed diagnostics to ensure optimal performance.
Instrument Rentals
We offer rent-to-own programs for student musicians needing school band instruments, including brass, woodwinds, and percussion. Our program includes maintenance coverage and upgrade options as students progress. This service supports local music education through partnerships with area schools.
People
Jerry Sims
Founder
Jerry Sims established the business in 1979, building it from a small shop into a regional music industry leader through his commitment to quality instruments and customer service.
Debbie Sims
Co-Founder
Debbie Sims helped shape the company's customer-centric approach, ensuring every visitor receives personalized attention and expert guidance during their musical journey.
Justin Sims
Current Leader
Third-generation musician Justin Sims now leads daily operations, combining technical expertise with family tradition to maintain the business's reputation for excellence.
Questions
What musical instruments do you specialize in?
We specialize in guitars (electric/acoustic), drums, keyboards, and studio recording equipment, carrying top brands like Fender, Yamaha, and Shure.
Do you offer music lessons for beginners?
Yes, we provide lessons for all skill levels including beginners, with certified instructors teaching guitar, drums, keyboards, and more.
Are instrument repairs done on-site?
Our certified technicians perform most repairs in-house, offering quick turnaround times for guitar setups, drum maintenance, and keyboard servicing.
Do you have rental options for school musicians?
We offer rent-to-own programs for school band instruments including brass, woodwinds, and percussion with maintenance coverage included.
Can you help set up a home recording studio?
Our experts assist with complete studio setups, recommending microphones, interfaces, and monitors tailored to your space and recording needs.
Is online ordering available for all products?
Most products including guitars, pedals, and accessories can be purchased online with fast shipping available to customers nationwide.
Reviews (6)
Sean Watdon
Jul 06, 2026
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I arrived at Sims Music in December 1994 with $800 & a dreaming of a solid body Rickenbacker b/c thats all I could afford at the time. I traveled from Hickory,N.C. to attempt this. Mr. Sims introduced himself to me & said that he was all out of Rickenbackers. That was a bummer. He then says Let me make a quick call. I have a Fire Glo 330 behind the counter that Im holding for someone. He calls Darius Rucker . Darius tells him to sell it to me b/c he already had a black one & hed get up with him later. Mr. Sims said Its yours. $800 out the door w/ the case & all.Thank you Mr. Sims, Ill never forget how generous you were to me.May God forever bless your family. And yes, I still have it.
Aaron Drisk
May 11, 2022
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If you are a drummer in Columbia sc and shop anywhere else, you're shopping at the wrong place. Justin knows a lot and his staff is also knowledgeable and friendly. They are clean, very organized and have a lot of different options on equipment in stock.
Mark Cope
May 08, 2022
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Simms Music was a pleasure to work with. The guitar was just as described and they shipped it to me very quickly. I received the day after placing my order. Thanks Justin!
VideoGabe
Mar 07, 2022
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Fantastic customer service, prices and selection. I was allowed to play and test keyboards for about an hour with no pressure and no issues. Super friendly staff and I've heard their lessons are top notch too. If you're even remotely interested in music come check out the best company in the state!
Markos Hurtt
Feb 27, 2022
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Bought my whole DJ setup over here. Staff is incredible. Had a bump in the road with one of my speakers, and they made sure they fixed it for me as promptly as time allowed. Support local. They're beautiful people.
Seamus Fennessy
Dec 22, 2021
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Went in with a friend to help her find an electric guitar. Staff was really helpful and accommodating. When we sat in the "special collection" room they offered us a cable, picks, and an amp to borrow for the guitar we wanted to test. Solid lifetime help for guitar purchases which is pretty great.
