Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for String Instruments in Ann Arbor
Shar Music has been a trusted name in the world of string instruments for over 60 years. Founded by Charles Avsharian, our mission is to spread joy through string music by providing high-quality instruments, accessories, and educational resources. We specialize in violins, violas, cellos, and basses, catering to beginners, professionals, and everyone in between. Our commitment to quality is evident in every product we offer, from beginner-friendly instruments to advanced professional-grade equipment. We also provide expert repair and restoration services, in-home trials, and appraisals to support musicians at every stage of their journey. Our team of knowledgeable professionals is dedicated to offering personalized guidance, ensuring customers find the perfect instruments and accessories to meet their needs.With a legacy built on innovation and integrity, we continue to uphold our founder's vision of making quality play accessible to all. Our online store and Ann Arbor showroom serve as hubs for musicians seeking reliable products and exceptional service. We take pride in supporting the future of string music through initiatives like Young Strings of America, which empowers emerging artists. Our 30-day guarantee and fast delivery reflect our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
Services
In-Home Trials
Repairs & Restoration
Appraisals
Instrument Rentals
Online Sales
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- We offer over 60 years of expertise in string instruments and accessories.
- Our team provides expert repair and restoration services for all string instruments.
- We guarantee fast delivery and 30-day returns on all purchases.
- Our in-home trial program lets you test instruments before buying.
- We support emerging musicians through our Young Strings of America initiative.
What people say
Excellent customer service
Quality items at reasonable prices
Professional input when needed
Fantastic recommendations
Fast shipping
Services
In-Home Trials
Our in-home trial program allows customers to test instruments in their own environment before purchasing. This service ensures perfect fit for individual playing styles and needs. Available for violins, violas, cellos, and basses.
Repairs & Restoration
We offer expert repair and restoration services for all string instruments. Our technicians handle everything from minor adjustments to major restorations. Appointments are recommended for complex restoration projects.
Appraisals
Professional appraisal services help determine the value of string instruments. Our experts assess condition, craftsmanship, and market value. This service benefits insurance purposes or estate planning.
Instrument Rentals
We provide quality instrument rentals for students and professionals. Our rental program includes maintenance support and upgrade options. Available for violins, violas, cellos, and basses.
Online Sales
Our comprehensive online store offers thousands of string instruments and accessories. Customers enjoy free shipping on orders over $49 and 30-day return guarantees. The website features detailed product information and expert recommendations.
Questions
What shipping options do you offer?
We offer free shipping on all US orders over $49. Standard shipping rates apply for orders below this amount.
Do you accept returns?
Yes, we offer a 30-day return policy on all purchases. Items must be in original condition for full refund.
What services do you provide besides sales?
We offer instrument repairs, appraisals, in-home trials, and rental programs for string instruments.
Do you offer payment plans?
Currently we don't offer financing options, but we accept major credit cards and online payment methods.
Are your instruments covered by warranties?
Most instruments come with manufacturer warranties. We stand behind our products and offer expert support for any issues.
Reviews (7)
Joseph Madden
Jun 01, 2022
Report
I've purchased strings from Shar for years, and I've always been able to count on receiving the right items at reasonable prices. I experienced a minor issue with a recent order, but Shar's customer service was responsive and courteous, quickly rectifying the issue.
Anthony Marchese
Apr 14, 2022
Report
To update this post, Shar had a lawyer serve me with a cease and desist letter due to my review. Everything below is a truthful statement of my personal experiences with Shar. Having personally witnessed too many practices at Shar I do not agree with, I will be ending my 17 year relationship with them. I have had only bad expierences with the bow tech and repair shop. Nearly every rehair has failed and required a second rehair.
I had the varnish on my cello extensively touched up and within months the varnish began melting off of my cello staining everything it touched. Unfortunately the damage could not be repaired by the luthier. Based on this I would not reccomend seeking rehairs or other repairs through Shar on anything above a student level instrument. Shar reached out to me and to discuss the issues however the couldn't admit their fault or resolve the issue.
My bows have been permanently damaged by the bow tech and my cello has irreparable varnish damage. On top of all of this I have had a terrible time communicating with customer service, to the point where they no longer respond to my emails.
I had the varnish on my cello extensively touched up and within months the varnish began melting off of my cello staining everything it touched. Unfortunately the damage could not be repaired by the luthier. Based on this I would not reccomend seeking rehairs or other repairs through Shar on anything above a student level instrument. Shar reached out to me and to discuss the issues however the couldn't admit their fault or resolve the issue.
My bows have been permanently damaged by the bow tech and my cello has irreparable varnish damage. On top of all of this I have had a terrible time communicating with customer service, to the point where they no longer respond to my emails.
Mark DaSacco
Dec 24, 2021
Report
The best place for violins, cellos and bowed instruments and accessories. The have several large cabinets full of all kinds of sheet music and instructional books for all levels of ability, from beginner to master. And the staff are professional, courteous and friendly. For my violin needs I go nowhere else.
Ajaykumar Raju
Oct 29, 2021
Report
I placed an order for violin on September 17th when product showed "In Stock" on website and still shows "In Stock" today, but my order status showing backordered and was never delivered. They are not even responding to calls, and going to voice mails. I am not sure what to do. Guys, please just be careful!
Jordan Bartel
Sep 23, 2021
Report
If you have a violin of any significant, DO NOT have any work done at Shar and go to a reputable luthier. I had a small problem fixed on my valuable instrument recently, and upon entering my concerns about the state and care of the instrument in the process of the repair were completely disregarded. The violin's bridge came back to me damaged, and I am having to get a new one made, as well as having the initial repair redone elsewhere.
For those of us who's instrument is their livelihood, not having our opinions valued as the instrument's owner and player is extremely unsettling, not to mention when there is actual damage when it is done.
For those of us who's instrument is their livelihood, not having our opinions valued as the instrument's owner and player is extremely unsettling, not to mention when there is actual damage when it is done.
Elana Fate
Aug 16, 2021
Report
What a wonderful shop. The staff is so knowledgeable and welcoming. They support and encourage the students in all ways. They even sized my daughter and made sure she had a great tuned instrument.
Ella Michalak
Aug 16, 2021
Report
Went with my mom to purchase a new viola, and turn in my rental. Such a great experience, both Quinn and Lindsay were so helpful and worked with our budget. 10/10 would recommend!
