I recently discovered this place on 16048 Via Estes rd in Sonora, when I brought my flute in to get an overhaul. In the process I learned about what they have to offer and of their generosity in supporting the music programs in local schools. They walk the talk, donating time, effort, and part of store proceeds so kids have instruments to play. Ron and Lloyd are passionate about bringing music into everyone's life and providing something much more fulfilling than scrolling on one's phone - personal connection and fun. I attended their 2nd "209 Club", 2nd Saturday of the month, where us music novices can jam together. There were guitar players, a bass, piano, drums and more to come as the rest of us catch on and attend, myself included. read more

Previous review is incorrect! This great music store is wide open and at a new location keeping music alive and well in Sonora. Look it up and go by. read more

We thought Live Oak music had closed but they just moved up the hill! Went into the new location today to get help with tuning our son's new guitar and met one of the new owners, he was AMAZING! He taught our son how to tune his guitar and gave him some great tips! He also told us about some upcoming events they are holding to support music in our local schools! It was a great trip and a really great environment. We will definitely be back! Oh, he also met us at the car and handed the kids Kazoos- which they LOVED- and it made for a hilariously entertaining drive home...I'd give more stars if we could! read more

Ron rules! I've been a customer since the store opened in the early 90's. Best music store in the area ever. Highly recommended.

We came here about a year ago - when my husband wanted to purchase some guitar strings and guitar stands. Ron the owner was extremely helpful and personable. He was generous with his knowledge about other musicians in the area and it's evident that he's very passionate about the local music community. If you're looking to stock up on guitar supplies, buy sheet music, need musical instrument repairs, lessons, or even just want someone to talk to about music - Live Oak is your spot. They've been serving the area for over two decades. They're the kind of place that encourages you to explore the store and try things out. They carry guitars, amps, drums, keyboards, and more. In these current times - I'd recommend staying tuned to their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/LiveOakMusicStore/ to learn about their open days and times. I believe it may be best to call ahead of time to make an appointment. Trust. read more

Awesome store and crafts place. Best music store in the motherlode!! Can't say enough about the true love they have for music read more

My daughter was very interested in learning to play the banjo. Ron (the owner) picked out a beginners banjo, gave her a quick scale lesson and we all broke into a version of " If I Had A Hammer!" ...no joke! We ended up buying the banjo, a stand, strap, chord chart and he threw in a set of strings. Great guy...thank you Ron! Abraham read more

Live Oak Music has a good variety of new and used instruments and accessories. They have a great selection of guitars and amplifiers. My son started going there as a young teen and the owner always let him try out the guitars and amplifiers as much as he wanted. Live Oak does offer lay away on instruments so it is great for young aspiring musicians. The prices at Live Oak are competitive with stores in the valley, but you get more personalized service here. Update 6/28/08 My son recently had an unfortunate accident with his electric guitar. He took it in to Live Oak Music and got it back a couple days later better than before at a reasonable price. read more

I've bought many things from Ron at Live Oak Music, including a rare vintage Epiphone archtop guitar and an expensive electric nylon string guitar. Typically his prices are very competitive. There's a lot to be said for 'try before you buy.' That's why it's great to have a locally owned music store! read more

It's great to move to a quiet town and discover a music store as good as any in the big city. Sure, it's a lot smaller than the mega stores you would find elsewhere, but the owner is willing to order anything you want if he doesn't have it on hand. It is the owner's knowledge of music and the local music scene, as well as his enthusiasm, that set the store apart. He treats everyone that comes in with respect and doesn't try to sell you something you don't need. He also takes time to learn exactly what you want. read more

Live Oak music is a musicans freind! randomly found my self here buying some music sheets so I could surprise someone by singing some songs. they where very nice and helpfull read more

Live Oak is the kind of Music store that tends to encourage hands on product testing. I had been in there on and off since I moved here permanent for strings, picks, sheet music, etc., but the day that I went in with the intent of purchasing an Acoustic / Electric Guitar, that I really felt the no pressure approach that Ron offers, when you are in that kind of relaxed setting, you can focus on the task at hand. I was there for about 3 hours and played just about every guitar in the store. This atmosphere alloted me the luxury to choose wisely and I did, I kept coming back to the same guitar ( a Fender CJ290CE). I had done my homework prior to coming and I knew that his prices were fair, I did have to special order a hard case (which turned out to cost a bit more than first quoted), however it was a well made (American Made) case and Ron did chisel a few bucks off his retail mark up. All and all, I am happy with my purchase and Ron has made a customer for life. Thanks again Ron, Mike R. Just up the Hill a bit read more

A great local music shop. My family has been going there for years. Bought my first bass there, had my first lessons there, bought my first banjo there, bought my first electric guitar there, if Im in Sonora this is where I go. Good selection, great service, great prices. Ron is a great guy who loves music and loves what he does. Every time I go to another music shop I compare it to Live Oak and few have ever measured up. read more

An excellent store run by a great guy. I have been going to see Ron for over 10 years now and never had a bad experience. Highly recommend

This is a prime example of what music shops should be. Great customer service from someone who knows there product. Every time I am in Sonora I stop by this place to buy some strings and browse a little. Not as much product as guitar center but I feel way better supporting a person as opposed to big business. read more

Ron was very nice! He got me my violin bow and rosin... Although it did seem a little busy so it took a little longer than expected.

They have what you want. Somewhat knowledgable staff that can lead you to a teacher. Not too keen with band instruments, they are more about guitars and piano sales. Last time I was in there another customer came up to my best friend and said "I know Ching Chong music." And proceeded to harass us. While I understand that it is not the businesses fault that a costumer was a racist prick. They didn't ask him to leave either. I won't be back. read more

Nice selection of low-midrange guitars including Recording King. The proprietor was very helpful and friendly. Unfortunately they don't seem to have much that I need. read more

Have you ever watched School of Rock with Jack Black? This place basically rocks as much as that movie. And even if you didn't like the movie, the good thing is that this place still rocks everyone's socks. This place is guaranteed to be one of the best music shops you will ever enter in this lifetime. Not enough good things can be said about this shop solely because of the owner, Ron Brandon. He is super friendly, extremely musically- knowledgeable, and genuine. In this day and age it can be rare to come across people who pursue their dreams in life and remain passionate throughout their lives about what they first fell in love with. It is for this reason that Ron is so awesome; when you walk into the store you instantly feel comfortable and welcome, even if you are the only person in the shop. He will give you his undivided attention as you explain what are looking for, whether it be a new guitar or just a music book. He encourages you to play any and all instruments that catch your fancy, and he will guide you to the perfect one for you. One of the best qualities about him is that even if you don't know how to play guitar or ukulele or whatever it is you're interested in, he is patient and will enthusiastically give you mini lessons on the spot so you can get a feel for each instrument. His help goes beyond the mere interest of a salesperson- you can just feel his love in what he does and even if you don't buy anything, you'll walk away feeling great for having had the privilege of having met such an extraordinary person. To sum it all up: GO HERE. Whether you want to be the next rockstar or are looking for a new hobby or are just buying someone a gift, this is indisputably, hands down, THEE one and only place to go. read more

Fun place to visit and play. Reasonable prices on used and new equipment. Excellent customer service. Left with a smile.

I have been going to Live Oak Music for years to buy everything from drums, to guitars and amps. They have great prices and are extremely friendly and have amazing customer service. read more

Great little music shop. I've been doing business with the owner, Ron, for years. Really nice guy and very knowledgeable about musical instruments (quite a guitar player,too!). Ive been to a lot of music shops where the staff gets kinda pissy about people wanting to try out gear, but not here. Ron is happy to plug any instrument into any amp and let ya do your thang. He even sat my 4 year old behind a drum kit and let him bang away and then gave him his own set of sticks!Great prices! I buy all my picks, straps and strings from them. I've bought 2 Fender Strats, a couple pedals and a couple amps and got great deals on all of them. They are a licensed Fender dealer so if there's a Fender your looking for that they don't have, they'll get it for you at a great price. He's also done the intonation and neck adjustment on my Ibanez at a way lower price than anywhere else wanted to charge me. They carry lots of types of instruments and accessories. I'd highly recommend them to any musician. read more

This is the best music store in the motherlode they have a wide selection of instruments and accessories. The owner Ron is super smart and knows what he is talking about. And he is a talented musician himself! I will always buy from here. read more