Hoffmann Strings

I had an extremely bad experience with their service . The receptionist was rude and not telling…read morethe truth

We rented a violin for 2 years from this location. We are very happy with the service. Definitely…read morerecommend it!

Tobias Music

(65 reviews)

This place is definitely worth the hype! Their customer service and repair is super fast and…read moreaffordable! The shop has an amazing selection of guitars and rare collections. Lastly their vast knowledge really helps you feel comfortable about your decision if you choose to buy.

the very best guitar shop I have ever dealt with ! and I've been around and had many other places…read moreto compare to. Paul and his people are superb. I couldn't be happier. honest people with fair prices and perfect service. you can't say more than that. Susan from Prescott Az

Consolidated Music of Barrington Inc

4.3

(6 reviews)

Excellent music store! Honest, helpful and very knowledgable in all areas of musical instruments…read more Sell great reasonably priced great sounding guitars , mandolin's, and banjos ! Replaces guitar etc. strings for you or repair minor problems with musical instruments or will give you Referal to someone who will. Very kind, patient, compassionate, helpful staff. Music lessons on most instruments and voice lessons. Restrung and fixed neck of my guitar so easier to play in my 70s with my arthritic fingers. Very honest. Talked me into fixing my guitar rather than buying a new one! Great store! A real gem in the Northwest suburbs! Remember to turn into road off of Barrington road and turn into commons parking lot to gain access to store. Visit for all your music needs or to learn to play a new instrument! Truly, Liza Johnson

Meh. The guy at the counter talked down to me when I inquired about music lessons and rates…read more Considering the place was completely devoid of customers, one would think he would be happy with possible business. In addition, I didn't find the selection of guitars and accessories to be spectacular. In the future, I'll head to Minstel Music in Niles. I've not had good luck with a few of Barrington's small businesses. Maybe these people are rich and buy these businesses on a lark, and have zero desire to make profits. Who knows?

Jim Perona

(18 reviews)

jim is amazing - we had him perform…read moreat a large family backyard event and his performance was truly special - thank you Jim

Jim is an amazing musician! His guitar music prior to weddings, during weddings and during…read morecocktail hour. is absolutely stunning and amazing. So many people ask me about him. He would be outstanding for Christmas parties, business with a celebration afterwards. Jim is true to who he was born to be. His sound system is fantastic. He an amazing person all around.

Marriott Theatre

4.5

(203 reviews)

Marriott Theatre continues to prove why it's one of the best regional theaters around. The theater…read morein the round design makes every seat feel intimate, and with its 360 degree layout, there really isn't a bad seat in the house. The scenic design, lighting, and costumes beautifully transformed the space into a dreamy turn of the century Swedish countryside. A Little Night Music was such an interesting production! It had a little bit of everything including romance, humor, scandal, suspense, and plenty of unexpected plot twists. At times, it was a bit challenging to keep up with all of the intertwining storylines and relationships, but once everything started coming together, it made for a fun and entertaining experience. Even if you're not familiar with A Little Night Music, the witty humor, romance, and tangled relationships keep the story engaging from start to finish. The cast did an incredible job balancing comedy and emotion, delivering plenty of laugh out loud moments alongside heartfelt scenes. As always, Marriott Theatre made for a wonderful night out. Parking is free, the venue is comfortable, and the staff is welcoming, friendly, and organized. If you're looking for a great date night or simply love live theater, this production is absolutely worth the trip to Lincolnshire. A special shoutout to Kesha, our Community Manager, and the incredible Marriott Theatre staff. My husband recently fractured his foot and is currently using a knee scooter. They graciously accommodated us with an aisle seat at the last minute, and the staff went above and beyond by helping transport his scooter to and from our seats. That level of kindness and customer service truly made our evening stress free, and we're so grateful for their thoughtfulness.

An amazing gem of a theatre in the Chicago suburbs. Its shows are fine "in the round" which is less…read morecommon for the area. But I don't know why - it means every seat is fantastic. Lots of open public space to accommodate the crowds and - best of all - free parking!!! I saw a production of A Little Night Music, which happens to be my favorite Sondheim. But this was the first production I'd seen in the round. They made good use of space and even had fly space to drop things like lights and a swing from the ceiling. If you know the show, one character is in a wheelchair and they were able to incorporate the ramps seamlessly. I believe it's an equity production and the bio of one actress appears she was brought in from nyc. So they have the talent.

Tobias Music

(65 reviews)

Aloha City Ukes

4.8

(43 reviews)

Excellent Customer Service and top quality musical instruments. I spoke to Matt a couple of times…read more He was always knowledgeable and helpful.

Second Uke I bought from AlohaCity had mold and spider webs on it, along with a lot of dings on the…read moretuners and rust on the two metal strings. I reached out a week ago and there was no reply. Worst product I've ever received from any store. I was hoping for at least an apology. Will not buy from them again.

Christopher Laughlin School Of Music

(6 reviews)

My daughter has been going to violin lessons for the last few years and loves it. Her teacher has…read morebeen patient, kind, and extremely helpful with feedback.

My daughter has taken piano, voice and music theory lessons with Audie for seven years. He has…read morehelped shape her love for music and the way she approaches each song. We love the many opportunities that Christopher Laughlin provides for their students to practice performing in front of an audience, building up confidence and comfort as well as plenty of fun. Great experience, highly recommend this school.

Ravinia Tutors

(6 reviews)

My children, ages 10 & 8, started taking piano lessons/voice with Tamar over 4 months ago and…read morequickly learned to read notes and sing with some great singing exercises! Tamar is very patient, knowledgeable and she so skillfully meets each student at their individual level. Lessons are engaging and seem to be well-organized, and communication is always clear and professional. Both my children's successful progress and eagerness to learn and attend practice is a testament to Tamar's exceptional teaching abilities! Thank you Tamar for being so kind and patient with my kiddos! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Tamar is an excellent tutor - and what makes her so excellent, and unique, is that not only does…read moreshe know Hebrew (as a native speaker), but she also knows how to teach Hebrew. My two girls (ages 11 and 9) have worked with Tamar over the past year. We began working with her to supplement the Hebrew education our girls were receiving in Hebrew School. My oldest daughter expressed interest in learning more Hebrew, so we looked for, and found, a wonderful Hebrew tutor. Tamar works with both of our daughters at the same time (during the same hour) but manages to successfully individualize their Hebrew instruction. Over the course of the year, Tamar has learned what motivates them and how to motivate them! She is very patient with both girls and is so supportive of their progress. They both look forward to working with her because she is just so genuinely encouraging. Tamar cares about their Hebrew instruction, and it shows. She has brought over games, songs, and supplements that continue to engage my girls. Both girls have improved their Hebrew tremendously. My oldest is a fluent reader and while preparing for her Bat Mitzvah, is also simultaneously learning Hebrew as a language. My youngest has learned all of her letters and is an emerging reader (with consistent, steady progress). Tamar is warm, gracious, patient, dedicated, caring and works engaging her students. I can not recommend her more highly. She is a gem in the world of educators and we are so fortunate to be working with her.

Alvaro Ramirez

I have been taking regular weekly lessons with Alvaro for the past month and after the first couple…read moreof classes I already noticed an immense change in my was production. Being a professional interpreter, voice is extremely important for me and finding my full voice potential is one of the professional challenges. Discovering my voice with Alvaro is turning out into an amazing professional revelation. He is very patient, very tactful pointing out mistakes and inaccuracies, at the same time he knows exactly in what direction he's leading me even though I may not understand it myself at the time. His professional manner, way of presenting things are very impressive. I very highly recommend Alvaro voice and vocal lessons.

From the owner: Welcome to the daCorneto Opera Studio in Chicago! I teach students at all levels; beginner to…read moreprofessional. I take great pride in making every student in my studio a priority. Every session in the studio is geared toward establishing and maintaining a healthy, reliable, solid technique. The first half of the lesson is devoted to a variety of breath support and vocalization exercises. The second half is devoted to repertoire preparation and study. The main focus of the studio is to help all students discover their true vocal potential and fix any major vocal problems, should they exist.

Tritone Music School, Inc.

See more unrecommended reviews

It took us six years to find these people. We moved here from Detroit, where the music teachers…read morewere fantastic. Somehow the suburbs of Chicago didn't measure up. Until now. These teachers are excellent, and provide good value.

From the owner: Music lessons for all ages. Private lessons for piano, guitar, drums, wind, brass, voice, and…read morestrings. Affordable piano group lessons for beginner to intermediate level.

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Kathy Z.

12 years ago

Bill Hoffman has been my luthier for over 15 years. I have two daughters who are violinists, and Bill has been a real blessing for our family. His rentals are impeccable. The instruments are well cared for and even the cases are extremely clean. Bill has helped me out countless times. Bow rehairs, violin repairs, sheet music ordered for overnight shipping, music stands, etc. You name it, if there is a way that Bill can help he will most certainly go out of his way. I have also purchased two excellent violins from his shop. Hoffman Strings is by far the best string shop in the Midwest! read more

Christine W.

6 years ago

Excellent service! We have been renting my daughter's violin from Hoffman Strings for almost a year now. So when the schools closed due to the pandemic my daughter was unable to have her violin tuned by her orchestra instructor. Then in the beginning of May, I noticed that Hoffman Strings was open because they are an essential service so I drove to their location and Mr. Hoffman graciously tuned her violin. Thank you so much! We will be back over the summer when the violin needs to be tuned again. read more

Ralph S.

9 years ago

Mr. Hoffmann provided not only outstanding accommodation and thoughtful consideration during our transaction, he even threw in a gift as well with our purchase during this holiday time. The price itself was the best available we could find. We purchased by phone, were thoroughly pleased with the prompt and secure mailing, and have the highest regard for this business. When in need again musically, our family will look here first. read more

Max H.

124

9 years ago

Bill did a great job fixing my guitar. I wasn't sure if he would be able to, as he doesn't have that service advertised, but I gave him a call and to my surprise, was more than happy to do it. The bridge on my guitar was separating from the body, and guitar center wanted to ship my guitar off-site. Bill did it in-store in just a few days. I'm very happy with the job that he did, and it is holding up great! read more

Nicole Z.

12 years ago

Hoffman's Strings has been my luthier ever since I started playing the violin at the age of three. The owner, Bill, is always accommodating to my needs and fixes any problems with my violin as quickly as possible. I have never been disappointed when my violin comes back from the shop, but rather impressed at the wonderful job they have done! I would recommend this business to any musician. read more

Guifang Z.

9 years ago

This is a very nice place, with quality string instruments at affordable prices. Owners are very knowledgeable. They are very kind and cheerful, with gorgeous instrument bodies and always there to help out with any string breakage, tuning peg replacement, etc. I would definitely go here for string instruments, and you would definitely not be disappointed with the results! read more

Yulee L.

12 years ago

We rent my son's violin from Hoffman strings and have always left feeling fully satisfied. Not only is their rental contract affordable and easy to maintain, but their customer service has been superb during violin exchanges or string repairs! They engage my son in conversation and even encourage him to practice - I can tell they love even their littlest customers! read more

Jennifer F.

9 years ago

I have been renting violins from Hoffmann Strings for 12 years now, and am always so happy with the superior quality of the instruments I have received over the years, the extremely reasonable rental fee (which has never increased in all that time) and the wonderful service. I recommend Hoffmann to my friends all the time. They are truly a gem! read more

Tisha A.

6 years ago

I have renting violin for my daughter and she like it very much , the service is awesome and staffs are very knowledgeable and profession, they changed the strings and adjust the bow as per my daughter needs, Monthly rental is very cheap compared to any other musical stores. They provide very good service and resolve any issues very effective. read more

Nadine U.

8 years ago

My daughter has been playing the cello for over a year now. The other day her cello broke and she was devastated. I called Hoffman Strings and they we so kind and helpful. I went in and was quickly given a replacement. They we helpful, kind, and quick. I would recommend Hoffman Strings to anyone looking to rent a stringed instrument. read more

Rick G.

11 years ago

Locally owed string shop. I always receive great service when I come in. Even when there are many customers in the shop Bill listens to my needs and takes care of them promptly. Makes me feel as I am the only one in the shop. I think he really enjoys his work and this shows when he is taking care of the people that come in. read more

Greg D.

11 years ago

Extremely satisfied with the service. I had to get an instrument switch recently and it needed to be speedy because I have an audition soon and need to practice. Was able to get it in one visit and didn't miss a day of practice. Very friendly service and speedy replacement. Great shop I highly recommend it. read more

MEllie M.

14 years ago

Mr Hoffmann is a talented violin maker. He knows how to get the best tone out of an instrument. I had a buzz that bothered me for years. He found a small crack and then glued it back together. I had him rehair my Viola bow made by Hill and Son. Thanks again for all of your help. read more

Deborah K.

9 years ago

What a wonderful place! All through middle school and high school they have taken such good care of us. Always there to help us, from a last minute string replacement before a performance to helping us select that special viola with that perfect sound! Highly recommend! read more

Amy V.

5 years ago

We have rented from Hoffman Strings for years. The service is amazing and the owner is such a nice person. My daughter accidentally damaged her cello and he was so kind and was able to fix it and give us a loaner on short notice. It's obvious he truly enjoys what he does! read more

Jesus A.

4 years ago

Called since I was in the neighborhood and had a violin string break. My guy replaced it in two minutes WITH the same exact brand at about half the price of the string on Amazon. Wow!! Love this place and will be making the drive out here again. read more

Bianca B.

100

6 years ago

Fantastic service, especially with all of the special Covid precautions. We have been renting my daughter's cello with Hoffmann for a few years now and I couldn't be more pleased with their level of service and the help that they provide. read more

Santosh P.

6 years ago

Every time we need help with my child's violin, they always fix it up and always offer suggestions that help the violin but we also save money big time. Thank you for all your help, you guys have made are lives easier since the beginning. read more

George C.

9 years ago

Went here a couple of months ago to purchase a new cello bow. Great customer service, extremely likable owner. They have a large variety of different musical instruments, and I would wholeheartedly recommend utilizing their services. read more

Mary S.

14 years ago

Wow what a selection of books and Violins my daughter was renting a violin from another store. The teacher did not like it. She told us to come to this violin shop, The owner was making a violin when we came in. Thanks read more

Hoffmann Strings - musicalinstrumentsandteachers - Updated August 2026

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Libertyville Music

4.9

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Knowledgeable staff and great service…read more I got my guitar setup here and they took care of it very well, with attention to detail that you wouldn't get at larger shops. I also appreciated the staff giving me an overview of the gear I was interested in. I felt great just being there.

I rented a pair of speakers (+ stands), microphone, iPod adapter, and tuner (+ all needed cables)…read morehere for about $55 in December 2008. My then-fiancée and I were planning a very DIY wedding and we didn't want to hire a DJ. Looking online we were starting to think that we were going to have to spend a lot of money to rent an audio setup that would accommodate our needs. One of my wife's coworkers suggested we try Libertyville Music, so we called for an estimate and were shocked to find out how affordable they were. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. I picked up the equipment the day before the event, and my family returned it the day after. Couldn't have been easier. Oh, I should mention that the map displayed in the sidebar gives the wrong location for this business. Libertyville Music is located on the southwest corner of Milwaukee Ave and Lincoln Ave.

Music Source

3.9

(16 reviews)

My Husband has bought a number of guitars here. The repair…read moreand maintenance ARE excellent and reasonably priced. Lessons are available. Definitely worth stopping in.

They fixed up my 6 string acoustic guitar. I was having low action issues on the neck and it took…read moreabout 2 weeks and they had to change out a saddle but it was well worth the wait. This guitar singly sweet now. Big thanks to Bob!!!

Offbeat Music

4.9

(12 reviews)

What a great music store! Jim was the best, but the new owners are really fixing up the building…read moreproperly. If you have not been there in over a year, you won't believe your eyes. They have amazing piano drum and guitar instructors and Nick is an amazing guitar technician.

This is such a unique music store, and I love the vintage Chinese dragon drums and gongs. What's…read morebest is their outstanding service: I had a garage-tossed beginner drum set of decent quality with numerous missing smaller parts. At Offbeat, Jim searched his place for matching used parts, reset the entangled foot pedals, and got the whole set back in working order for minimal cost.

The Music Gallery

4.7

(40 reviews)

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It's hard to quantify how many times I've driven past this place. The parking lot is annoying, but…read moreit's in a weird location, so there isn't much they can do. After a disappointing experience at the Guitar Center, I figured I'd support a local business instead. No amount of tuning was saving my guitar from sounding weird, so I figured it needed at least a restringing. It also needed, as it turned out, some work on the neck. At no point did it feel like they were upselling me or taking advantage of my comparative inexperience. They estimated $50-60 for restringing and neck repairs, but after only a few days, they called me to tell me it was ready, and it was about $40 for everything. I respect their honest work and would be glad to return here again.

I've been going to The Music Gallery since they were at their original location about where Buffo's…read moreis now along the main drag there in Highwood, way back in '76. I now reside all the way over in Palatine. In all my transactions I've always gone away from the place feeling pleasantly satisfied that I got value from either their service or merchandise. Yesterday I picked up a used acoustic guitar I'd purchased elsewhere and had the crew there sort out the neck requiring a new nut and bridge. Rings like a bell and all for a very reasonable price!

Fix This! Musical Instrument Repair, Inc.

4.3

(14 reviews)

•$$$

I went in to get my piccolo repaired and the customer service was great and they fixed my piccolo…read moreon the spot and had extremely reasonable prices. I would definitely go back for anything I need for my instruments!!

I have brought my flute and piccolo here for repairs, Bonnie does a great job!!! Awesome.customer…read moreservice!

Schroeder Amplification

4.1

(7 reviews)

Hands down this is the finest repair shop in the city. I've had a fair amount of fret work done…read morehere and it was all top notch with a great deal of care. Their rates are a little higher than 3rd Coast and others but you certainly get what you pay for. If you value about your instrument this is the place to go.

They seemed like good folks but they must not understand how to set up a Floyd Rose guitar. I took…read moreit in to get a setup done since this guitar is older. When I got it back the bridge looked way different then I had been setting it up. I figured they probably knew more than I did so let it go. Later on, I found the setup instructions for this guitar and I was in the right. The bridge should be parallel to the top of the guitar. They had it at a HUGE angle to it. It hasn't played the same since. Now I need to take it elsewhere and will end up paying more in set-ups than I paid for the guitar new 12 years ago.

A-Major Music

4.4

(5 reviews)

A major music is a great place to buy/ rent out musical instrument. friendly staff, cost efficient…read morerent options and we service our trumpets here every year! They have wide variety of musical books and instruments for sale .

I was in and out within 10 minutes for a $2 guitar string replacement. Looks like a few old ladies…read morerun it, but they were so lively and sweet. those are the old people I love. It honestly was really cool seeing one of them play very briefly. She tuned it for me too. I wish they had a bit larger selection of Guitars because I really want to upgrade and not spend a fortune, so a used one is the way to go. But they have a wide variety of instruments. I will be back for sure.

Ballinger Amplification

Great service! Michael Ballinger identified the problem areas. Tested the components in this great…read moretube amp. Replaced the tubes and made sure everything was working correctly. Amp sounds fantastic! Thanks Michael for the good work! I highly recommend Ballinger Amplification! You musician's and recording engineers that have older tube Amps - give him a call!

Cassandra Strings, Inc

4.1

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•$$$

Cassandra strings is a wonderful store for stringed instruments. We stumbled upon them via the…read moreelementary school, when it came time to rent an instrument for our son. They were one of 2 choices for cello rental and luck of the draw, we picked them. From what I've read, many of these rental companies are dis-honest. Not so with Cassanda Strings - very reputable, providing great quality and customer service at a fair price. We have been with them for 2.5 years and have no complaints. They are also able to provide info on local string music teachers to those who are interested. Yes, I recommend them. Yes, I return to them.

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