The word music is derived from the Greek translation for “art of the Muses,” those mythological goddesses that reportedly inspired literature, science and the arts, and who were also the source of the knowledge embodied in the poetry, song lyrics and myths comprising Greek culture. Modern takes on the phrase date from the 1630s in classical Greece, the word “music” in this iteration referring to any art in which the Muses presided – but especially music and lyric poetry.

 

Music is comprised and performed for many purposes, running the gamut from aesthetic pleasure to religious and ceremonial purposes, or as an entertainment product for the marketplace. Before any performer can take the stage at a local live music venue, however, he or she needs the proper equipment, and rest assured, Los Angeles is stocked with music stores that cater to both amateurs and professionals alike.

 

From massive music complexes to beloved acoustic shops, there is something for every musical instrument shopper in the City of Angels, and the following businesses represent our top picks for the best music shops around Woodland Hills.

 

Angel City Guitars, located at 4865 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, offers a dizzying array of string instruments guaranteed to help you channel your inner Guns n Roses. Here, you’ll find incredibly dazzling selections like the Fano JM6 Oltre Desert Sand, Fano JM6 Oltre Three Tone Sunburst, Suhr Classic S Antique Custom Burgundy Mist, Nik Huber Twangmeister Green Turquoise and Knaggs Kenai-J Limited Edition P2 Gloss Relic Brazilian Rosewood. Angel City Guitars is open for in-store shopping as well as curbside pickup, and is open Monday through Saturday 12 to 4.

 

Kaye’s Music Scene, located at 19369 Victory Boulevard in Reseda, is a family-owned-and-operated musical instrument and lessons store originally opened by George, Gloria and Sid Kaye in 1970. Since that time, Kaye’s has served local and global professional and hobbyist musicians by way of offering big-store discounts with mom-and-pop store one-on-one customer service. The shop boasts a large selection of keyboards, guitars, basses, drums, tuners, violins, horns, recording and live sound gear, in addition to offering private lessons for students and professionals. This is also where you’ll find one of the largest ukulele selections in Southern California.

 

West Valley Music Center, located at 24424 Vanowen Street in West Hills, offers private music lessons, instrument rentals, instrument repair and musical instruments, and holds the accolade of being a highly-respected, privately-owned music shop/music school in the San Fernando Valley. Servicing the needs of nearby communities such as Woodland Hills, Bell Canyon, Hidden Hills, Calabasas and Canoga Park, West Valley Music Center staffs knowledgeable and experienced music teachers who inspire every student to learn efficiently in cheerful practice rooms – and that’s just the beginning of an unparalleled musical enrichment experience.

 

Sattari Musical Instruments, located at 4881 Topanga Canyon #202, is the brainchild of Sattari, a Los Angeles-based professional drummer with over 30 years of experience, and who has performed in most major cities around the world. These thousands of performances have helped him identify his needs in a perfect pair of drum sticks, which ultimately resulted in the creation of his own product line. His first drum sticks were made by his father during Sattari’s childhood, crafted from a simple piece of wood from a tree in their backyard and a kitchen knife; today’s Sattari brand drum sticks are made using prime North American woods to ensure the best quality. The Sattari Musical Instruments company also sells guitars, violins, violin strings, drummer pads and more.

 

Sam Ash, located at 20934 Roscoe Boulevard in Canoga Park, is one of the most recognized names in the retail musical instrument and professional DJ world, with locations all across the country. Serving musicians since 1924, Sam Ash offers top service, selection and prices when it comes to any musical needs, the store’s inventory of music and sound products often described as “second to none.” What’s more, the shop stocks the latest and greatest from all of the top brands in guitars, amps, drums, keyboards, pro sound, DJ and band/orchestral instruments. Whether you’re just starting out or consider yourself a seasoned pro, Sam Ash’s musician sales associates will make sure you get the gear you need at a reasonable price.
Los Angeles has long been synonymous with rock ‘n roll, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to a plethora of music stores. If you’ve already visited the bright lights inside Guitar Center Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard and find yourself seeking something a bit more intimate, the aforementioned Woodland Hills businesses will definitely help you foster your inner Muse.