I’m a super keen music lover, but not a music-learner so I’d hardly qualify as an expert on instruments .
But, when my brother decided he wanted to learn the guitar and he needed guitar-lessons PRONTO!, - My search led me to SoundMonk Music Store at Andheri West, and its founder Viresh Loni, who also heads the Quarter Note Institute of Music.
The SoundMonk store is located on the S.V Road, just a few metres before the Shoppers’ Stop and adjacent to Barista - so it was terribly easy to spot. You don’t get lost and you don’t need your GPS!
The store has a vast and varied range of music instruments, both Indian and Western. Their expertise seems to be guitars because I noticed all the best brands in the business - from Roland to Gibson to Washburn(Don’t ask me which one is better - I wouldn’t know! I’m a writer by profession and an artist by passion).
Keyboards, Processors, Hohner harmonicas, Djembes, drum kits, amplifiers, monitors, flutes, microphones, even miniature drum replicas(for gifts) . it’s a music lover’s toy store! And their endearing mascot - a monk with headphones who reminds you that music is your path to nirvaana.;-)
Must say that the team at the store is very easy to connect with and genuinely there to help. Watched them guide customers into picking instruments suited to their skills as well as budget.
One kid was guided into buying a "left-handed" guitar instead of a regular one because he is left handed. Got to know from the kid that, all this while, he’s been using the normal one and had playing difficulties!
Someone else walked in to collect an instrument that had been repaired for him. quite pleased at being able to play again
The best & the most convenient bit is that their online store soundmonk.com caters pan India - so there’s no geography issues there. A lot of amateur and professional musicians in different parts of the country rely completely on them, knowing that their instruments will arrive safely at the city of choice
Was a little disappointed that the store is not bigger. and cannot accommodate too many people at one go. Some of the drum &(if I’m not mistaken) keyboard lessons happen at the store too. since their students are being trained for various grades of the Trinity College of Music Exams, UK!
Must say, for a non-student like me, it definitely planted the seed of an idea - "Should I consider taking a few lessons after all?":-)
Highly recommend the store and its team.
If you’re a musician - a trip down to SoundMonk Store is very worth it!