The Music Merchants Podcast

How does a music store stay in business for more than 150 years—while so many others struggle with shrinking margins and online competition? In this episode, we break down how Paige's Music built a thriving, school-focused rental powerhouse by going all-in on one thing: serving band and orchestra programs better than anyone else. Founded in 1871, Paige's has doubled down on specialization, elite r...

In this episode, you'll hear how Anthony and Bailey grew their music school to over 700 students in just a few years—and how you can apply the same strategies to your own program. If you've ever wondered how to take lessons from a "side hustle" to the true engine of your music business, this is a must-listen. What you'll learn in this episode: How to shift your mindset from "retail-first" to "less...

In this episode, we explore how a stolen bass drum in 1935 led to the creation of Ernie Williamson Music, a multi-location retail powerhouse. From its humble beginnings to a bold rebranding and a shift toward e-commerce and video marketing, we uncover the key strategies that have kept this nearly 90-year-old business thriving. Tune in for insights on innovation, customer trust, and adapting to the...

Running a music store or school is about more than just business—it's about community, adaptability, and creating meaningful connections. In this episode of  The Music Merchants Podcast , Matt Strosnider, owner of Shenandoah Music in Winchester, Virginia, shares how thoughtful leadership and customer-centric changes transformed his family business. From aligning pricing with expectations to balanc...