Industry news & advice blog

Image credit: Garry Knight

A bad workman might blame his tools, but the truth is that getting the right instruments can up your game no end; get yourself stocked up with the best equipment at one of these fine establishments and you won’t have any excuses.

1. Forsyths
126 Deansgate
M3 2GR
www.forsyths.co.uk

This legendary music shop is a true Manchester original. As well as a full range of instruments, they also repair most instruments and run a concert rental scheme here.


2. Dawson’s Music
30 Portland Street
M1 4GS
www.dawsons.co.uk

There might be a Dawsons in pretty much every city, but that’s because they keep it simple and they do it right. They’re got everything you need from instruments to PA equipment to accessories.


3. Johnny Roadhouse
123 Oxford Road
M1 7DU
www.johnnyroadhouse.co.uk

A part of the furniture on Oxford Road for many years, and perhaps the best known instrument shop in the whole city, you’ll find the staff helpful and the deceptively large store full to the brim with musical goodies.


4. Chase
58 Oldham Street
M4 1LE
www.chasedirect.co.uk

Got a gig in the Northern Quarter, doing your soundcheck and suddenly realise you’re missing a plectrum? This place can sort you out with that, plus lots more besides.


5. PMT Manchester
Unit 5
The Red Rose Centre
Regent Road
Salford
M5 3GR
www.pmtonline.co.uk

Nothing to do with ‘women’s trouble’ and everything to do with a huge range of instruments, equipment and technology, with plenty of product experts on hand to give you some valuable advice.