Rated 4.19 / 5 from 27 reviews
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Buchanan Music We provide private music lessons on the following instruments: bass guitar, cello, clarinet, flute, guitar (acoustic, classical, and electric), piano, saxophone, trumpet, viola, and violin/ fiddle at all levels.

We LOVE music. And, we want to share that passion with you. Every person employed at Buchanan Music shares a devotion for music and, more importantly, wants to share that love of music with everyone who walks through our door. It's only logical that we have a department dedicated to bringing out the music within you.Our program allows for the flexibility of each and every student. There is no enrollment fee to sign up for our lesson program.
Highlights and features
  • Bass, Cello, Clarinet, Fiddle, Flute, Guitar, Piano, Saxophone, Trumpet, Viola, Violin
Services
Piano Lessons
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Piano Lessons The piano is such a wonderful instrument; whether we want to play a solo piece or accompany other instrumentsit's always a joy to play! Through years of learning and teaching experience(s), I realize sometimes it's hard to play piano without sheet music; therefore, I also include "play by ear techniques" to my piano lesson(s), in order for students to play the songs they like without the sheet music.
Voice Lessons
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Voice Lessons No matter if you want to be a better karaoke singer, professional singer, or just want to learn your favorite tunes, I can help you understand your own voice and develop its potential in a comfortable and non judgmental setting.
People
Lyle Cady
Lyle Cady
Guitar, Classical Guitar & Bass
Lyle is a state certified music teacher with a masters degree in music and over a decade of teaching experience. Lyle majored in Classical Guitar Performance in High School and college, ultimately receiving his Masters in Music Education from Arizona State University.
Jennifer Dock
Jennifer Dock
Flute / Piccolo
Jennifer has been playing flute for 30 years. She received her Bachelor of Music in Performance from North Carolina School of Arts in 1991 and her Master of Music from Arizona State University in 1993. She is a member of the Arizona Flute Society and the National Flute Association
Kirk Johnson
Kirk Johnson
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
Kirk Johnson's musical journey began in Boston, Massachusetts where he began taking violin lessons with Project STEP. Through this program, he learned to play the violin while also learning theory and ensemble playing. In middle school, Kirk switched to the viola and started to take music more seriously.
Brooke Prestwich
Brooke Prestwich
Violin & Viola
Violinist Brooke Prestwich has performed orchestral, chamber and solo musicthroughout the United States and Europe. She toured Europe with the Rocky Mountain Camerata in 2004, the Utah Philharmonia in 2006, and the KUGAMI Orchestra in 2011. She has participated in music festivals around the country, including the Eastern Music Festival, National Orchestral Institute, Madeline Island Music Festival, and Eutiner Festspiele.
Jason Southard
Jason Southard
Guitar, Bass & Trumpet
Jason has been a professional musician for over 20 years and instructing for 15 years. In 2000, he won the Jimi Hendrix Electric Guitar Competition sponsored by Experience Hendrix LLC., Fender Guitars, and Musician's Institute
Sid Lewis
Sid Lewis
Sid Lewis founded the Chico School of Rock in 2000, and has since delivered over 15,000 music lessons, hundreds of children’s concerts, and has allowed countless children to realize their musical dreams. He developed the Lewis Method that makes the school’s curriculum unique and enjoyable, and handles all the enrollment of new students when he’s not rocking out with his students.
David Silva
David Silva
David Silva has been playing music and teaching in Chico for the last 10 years, and has graced many local bands, including MB&D and Crazygrass (whom with he still plays guitar). His warm and patient approach makes learning easy, and he welcomes new students on guitar, keyboards and voice.
Katie Barrett
Katie Barrett
Katie loves teaching just as much as she loves performing and writing music. She studied percussion and music composition at Chico State. She has experience in many different ensembles- jazz bands, symphonic bands, drum lines, worship teams, and even recorded a CD in a rockin’ all girls alternative/pop rock band from Chico
Johnny Lombardo
Johnny Lombardo
Johnny 4 Lombardo has been teaching and performing Upright, electric, and acoustic bass for twenty years. Performs regularly with The Chris Schadt Band, Crazygrass, Low Flying Birds, and funk/jazz/fusion band HUSH. 2008 Cammie award winner for the category for bassist of the Year.
Lorrie
Lorrie
Lorrie has devoted her life to the studying, teaching, writing, recording and performing of music. Being a virtuoso in both guitar and piano, she has toured extensively in the United States, Canada and Mexico and has recorded 9 Internationally distributed CD's.
Catherine
Catherine
I was introduced to music at an early age and started playing piano when I was 9 years old. My parents encouraged me to take lessons to enhance my passion, and by the time I was 15 years of age I had won several large piano and singing competitions in Taiwan.
Videos
Imagine being able to play the piano... after only one lesson!
Imagine being able to play the piano... after only one lesson!
Unique piano lessons. We focus on teaching how to play the piano. Our program is engaging & educational. Students receive a well-rounded musical education.
Anisa, Piano Party 2011
Anisa, Piano Party 2011
Anisa plays "Hallelujah" with her sister and dad. Great job you guys!
Elliott, Vehemence
Elliott, Vehemence
Elliott plays his original composition, "Vehemence" which means anger. Was he angry at Mrs. Robin for making him compose a song? The world will never know...
Robin Thorpe Piano featured on Fox News
Robin Thorpe Piano featured on Fox News
Robin Thorpe Piano was featured on Fox 17 News. Learn more about Robin and the method.
Rachel, Rolling Waves
Rachel, Rolling Waves
Rachel plays her original duet with her mom, Rolling Waves.
Rebekah, Sweet Lullaby
Rebekah, Sweet Lullaby
Rebekah plays her original composition, "Sweet Lullaby" at the Robin Thorpe Piano Party. Beautiful and enchanting piece.
Reviews (27)
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Jim Weaver
Jun 14, 2022
Randall at Buchanan Music performed a very professional adjustment on my Custom Shop Martin D18. He based the adjustment on how I play and the type of strings I prefer. I have owned a number of Martins over my 60 years of playing and I would trust this store with any quality instrument. It is one of the few stores in Arizona that is authorized by the Martin factory to service their instruments. The repair was on time and on budget. I highly recommend Buchanan Music in Mesa!
S. T.
Jun 01, 2022
I am a beginner guitar player and was having a tough time with Barr chords. I decided to take my old Yamaha FG730S to Buchanans Music to get the action set up to hopefully help my playing. Worked with Robert. Super nice guy and he said my guitar was still in good shape and he thought a professional set up would help a lot. So I dropped off my guitar for a professional set up and new strings. Robert said it would probably take 4-5 days. Robert called me two days later and said my guitar was finished. Wow!

And OMG what a difference a professional set up made. It plays so much easier. I can play my Barr chords I'm workin on with much less buzzing and muted strings and with open chords my old guitar now sounds fantastic. He also cleaned it up and polished it. It is so much better now than when I bought it new in 2008 (It sat in the closet and never got played for over a decade LOL).

If you are a beginner guitar player, take your guitar down to Robert and have him professionally set it up. It improved my guitars playability by leaps and bounds. It is well worth every penny. Its like I have a brand new expensive guitar. Thanks again Robert! I cant put my "New" guitar down. I absolutely love playing it now!
Kyle Westlake
Mar 31, 2022
Randall recently repaired 2 guitars for me! My black guitar took a fall out of the stand and put a dent in the fretboard and caused a weird buzz. Initially I was quoted for a fret dressing to get rid of the buzz but after Randall looked at it he said that it didn't need it and just fixed a fret that was knocked loose from the fall instead, saving me some money!

He also filled the dent and color matched it so it's less noticeable! My other guitar had the binding pulling away from the body, they humidified the guitar until the guitar was ready to accept the binding again. After a lot of hard work and patience, Randall was able to convince the binding to stay! He also stepped me through the process to properly humidify the guitar to make sure that it won't happen again. I will definitely be bringing my guitars back for any work in the future. Thank you!
Karen G.
Mar 16, 2022
They guys saved the day for me. I needed a travel case for my keyboard, everything would have arrived too late for my trip, these guys had some used ones and I called first. They explained what they had and I got there 5 min before closing. The owner Robert was so helpful. I found the perfect case to fly with my keyboard. I am so happy. Will absolutely come back.
Erika K.
Feb 12, 2022
Added a Whole Lot of Humbucker to my dad's 80's model Paul Reed Smith a couple years ago. About a year ago my dad passed away, but he absolutely loved the new addition to his beloved PRS. My brother now has it and loves the way that guitar feels! I remember being in the shop with my dad when he brought it in. He recieved excellent and knowledgeable service. Thank you from the Toto and Krispinsky family.
Vince
Jan 25, 2022
Went there to get a quote for guitar repair. Luthier named Randall there was rude and condescending. I won't be going back.
Scott S.
Sep 15, 2021
I would stay away from this place. I talked to a person on the phone about adding a synth controller to my guitar, he said they could do it. So I drove 45 minutes to their shop. The outside looked ratty and the inside wasn't a lot better. I had a guitar in a case and the box for my synth under my arm, he told me I needed to get a mask or leave.

I told him I was vaccinated and he repeated I needed to get a mask or leave. So, I got a mask and came back in the store and his next comment was "are you trying to sell me something", the tone was a bit rude, but I mentioned to him that we had talked on the phone. He told me to put the box for the synth on the counter and then, again in a very unfriendly tone asked me why I brought the whole system.

I told him that it came in the box and I brought the whole unit so it could be tested. He asked if he could see the controller and as I started to take it out, he looked at me like I was on drugs and said to me again, and this time in a pretty snyde way, why did I bring the whole box. That was the end for me, it was clear he did not understand enough about the system to know that you can't test the controller without the synth unit being present (pretty basic 101 kind of stuff for a guitar shop).

I have no doubt he didn't understand enough to do the work, but he was willing to spend my money to experiment and I guess have me test it when I got home after I paid him. Bottom line, very unfriendly people, location looks like it's in trouble and they don't appear to know how to do the work they are willing to take on at the instrument owners risk.
Marisa Farias
Aug 30, 2021
So happy that we found Buchanan Music! What a great shop. Randall cleaned up my 30yr. old silver Holton trumpet and even worked out a few dents to get it ready right on time for my daughter to start school band. He was super knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. Highly recommend this local small business! We can't wait to be back.
Mike P.
May 30, 2021
I had an emergency repair needed on a very rare valuable guitar. I called and spoke with Robert, who was extremely friendly and very knowledgeable. I showed him the guitar and he could tell by my body language it was very important to me. They had work in front of mine and Robert took excellent care with my guitar and had it ready the next day! His prices are very reasonable and to them you can tell it's about the customer's needs and taking care of their instruments.

I will be back to have Robert work on more of my guitars. Robert, I can't thank you enough for what you did for me. I think by the expression and tone of my voice you knew I was incredibly pleased. Thank you so much! Mike P.
Dylan Sorrell
May 12, 2021
I had a very specific problem with fixing my guitar, called all over the valley for someone who can help. these guys know what they are doing and provide excellent customer service. the guys are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend this place
Dan O'Neill
Apr 20, 2021
Took a couple guitars for set up and to repair a seriously cracked neck on one. Randall did an outstanding repair on the neck and two excellent cleaning and set up jobs, including cleaning the electronics to get a very clean sound back. He's very good, knowlegeable, skilled, conscientious, service oriented and fun to work with. Highly recommended.
John Davis
Nov 23, 2020
I recently had my Martin M-36 set up and repair done here by Randall, the repair work was excellent and it was one of the best setups done on any of my guitars. The guitar was done before the promised date! I will be using them again in the future. Highly recommended. Thanks!
Deborah M.
Sep 17, 2020
During the pandemic I decided to pick up the autoharp. I did my research and settled on a vintage1979 Oscar Schmidt 21. I had it for about a month and could tell it needed some "rehab". I just wanted to learn to play it, not diy upgrade it. So I called around and no one would even help me except Buchanan Music. I swear I would have lost any enthusiasm to pick this instrument up again unless they had helped me.

I was getting hand fatigue and could hear that the tuning was way off even though I thought I was tuning it. I picked it up today and it is like a new instrument to me. Very happy with the service I received and VERY cool store. They obviously know what they are doing here. I'll go back for sure.
Gerry M.
Jul 09, 2020
I had the fortune of working with Randall with the repair work for my Takamine Acoustic Guitar. I had some pretty serious bridge and saddle issues. Randall was very clear with describing to me what needed to be done to get my guitar back up to speed. He was very courteous, informative and professional with the way he conducted himself! I am very happy with the results so far but I think as I continue to work with my newly repaired guitar I will find that he did a great job. Again, the service I received was exceptional. Thanks Randall and he even had a mask on for each of my visits! Gerry
Rommel R.
May 25, 2020
After a minor accident with my brand new Franklin fretless bass, I felt the need to put it in the hands of an expert and trusted luthier. I looked no further than Robert Buchanan at Buchanan Music in Mesa. I've been taking various kinds of instruments to Robert over the years and I've always been impressed by the quality of his work, his professionalism, fairness and friendly personality.

He always takes the time to listen to what you need. It doesn't matter if it's a simple repair or a complex custom job, Robert will give you his thoughtful expert opinion to deliver quality work to your exact specifications. My bass is now repaired and back home from the shop. It sounds awesome and I am extremely happy with the results. I fully recommend Buchanan Music for any repairs or upgrades for all your prized instruments.
E. B.
Jan 24, 2020
I love this place. Beetween my two children I've been renting instruments for four years. Always helpful and kInd. True customer service!
Michael T.
Jul 14, 2019
I recently took a vintage Danelectro Doubleneck in for a six string side set up. They did a great job, it plays wonderful now. This was a project guitar I bought used. The previous owner had done a lot of custom modifications to the six string side, a Schaller 3D6 bridge and a Telecaster style lipstick pickup. I replaced all the tuners with Japanese Gotoh and replaced a lot of rusty hardware.

Since then, I have also taken in a vintage 1978 Ovation Balladeer for a pickup replacement. In addition, Buchanan replaced some vintage button tuners on a Limited Edition Gibson Les Paul Jr. DC with Grover Deluxe Tuners. It turned out nice, very good tuning stability. Buchanan has always done a good job on all my guitar projects.
John M.
Jun 22, 2019
A couple months ago, I bought myself a Yamaha acoustic-electric travel guitar (APXT2). When playing with others or with my stereo, the feedback howl made the guitar unusable, so I go looking for a sound hole cover. After six weeks of trying to find a cover, I found a US company that advertised a cover to fit the T2, but the Yamaha cover I received was too big for the sound hole.

I later found out that Yamaha does not make a cover to fit the T2. After exploring some other options, all unworkable to me, I headed for Buchanan's. That was a lucky day for me. Robert trimmed the sound hole cover I had so that it fit the sound hole wonderfully, in less than one day. Sounds great now amplified. From unusable to perfect --- that's what I call a very good result. I am grateful for the fine service I got from Buchanan. They're top notch in my book.
Rob H.
Mar 21, 2019
I recently bought a viola from this shop. Great overall experience - I will definitely check them out for future instrument purchases.
Sidney S.
Apr 05, 2018
Instrument for a student? No problem they will rent it or fix it. Broken key on a older instrument don't throw it away take it here. They are really smart not too busy like the big chain stores and they are really serious about helping you get the most out of a new or used instrument. This place rocks. No pun intended!
Art P.
Mar 07, 2018
After calling Fender Musical Instruments customer service to see if they can recommend a service center to perform a simple guitar setup. They sent me to Buchanan Music. First off, there's a plenty of junk guitars there. No name brands. Used amplifiers that have seen better days. I dropped off my guitar on February 9, 2018. No call back, no contact. It's March 6, 2018.

It was almost a month. My guitar was never touched. They didn't look that busy since I was the only customer in there both times at drop off and pick up. I keep wondering how they stay in business.are they selling drugs out of the back of the place or possibly money laundering? I can say. All I can say is.avoid the place like the plague. I called Fender Musical Instruments customer service to let them know that this place just makes Fender look bad.to used the words of our a55hole President.shithole.
Tim S.
Jan 09, 2018
I really hate to leave a negative review for a locally owned business - but I had a very poor experience here and want to warn anyone else that is considering Buchanan Music for an acoustic guitar repair or installation. I brought my new acoustic in to have a strap nut installed. The installation was performed, but the nut was installed at a terrible off-angle, with the result completely crooked.

I was totally frustrated by the result. Once the screw has gone into the neck heel, it cannot be 're-done'. the install is permanent. To their credit, they refunded the installation - but too late to repair the guitar. If a simple strap nut cannot be installed correctly - it does not lend confidence to other work being done at this shop, thus I cannot recommend Buchanan Music.
Michael Leonard
Jun 20, 2017
Brought in a classic acoustic Gibson for repair and consignment. It took a long time to sell, but they never gave up. Nice people dedicated to their profession. Great location near a great tamale joint. High quality equipment for sale and expert repairs.
Vic C.
Jan 21, 2017
When Robert ran the store it was fast and great. Robert know lives in Cali. I knew Robert as a friend and would get one to 2 days turnaround. Now it takes two weeks
Connie O.
Jan 21, 2017
Nothing more disappointing for your 7&10 year olds to have guitar lessons set up then you get there and they have no record of it. The most lack luster apology in history. Basically a shoulder shrug and oh well, Ill get your number and maybe he'll call you or something like that that. Not the exact words, but it was seriously just a, oh hum, type of response. I'm sure they're great guys and all, but man, I'm tired of poor customer service!
D. V.
Aug 30, 2014
Buchanan Music is an authorized Takamine dealer and Russ is the guy that we've dealt with in the past year. He is completely awesome. Sometimes calling, whomever picks up the phone, if it's a woman, it's a bit hard to understand her, but as long as we get Russ there's no issues. He was our go to when we needed to get our Takamine replaced, Russ helped us so much in sending our guitar to KMC Music, but also receiving it, which is another story in itself.

He made sure we got a good guitar this time. And about 6 months later, the guitar needed some adjustments and Russ did it. The guitar plays beautifully and we appreciate Russ' talent in working on guitars. You can tell he loves the instrument and is a master craftsman. We appreciate your work, Russ. Thank you for helping my husband develop his passion and love for the guitar.
Ryan Perkins
Dec 03, 2013
OK so here is the deal, I have known and gone to Buchanan's Music since I was about 16 years old. I am now 24 and the quality of work that come out of this shop is Fantastic and has never done me wrong once!. They are great and easy to work with, and the customer service is second TO NONE (and I'm really picky just ask them aha). Rush the lead guitar tech even lets me play my guitar for a few minutes after he sets it up just to see if he needs to tweak it for me!.

The whole staff is super knowledgeable about gear how its made and everything it can and cant do. There really is no complaint about this shop except for They USED and I stress USED to have a stock of not so great guitars. That Being said the newest Addition to the staff Todd Staples Has completely changed that around With the new addition of G&L guitars and Other guitars that are hand picked By Todd. (He also personally plays everything before he give the OK on putting it in the shop).

As I have grown up through the years, I love this shop more and more. To the point where me and my cousin Andrew Will not let anyone else work on our stuff. One more thing about them is its not just guitars, Almost all woodwinds, brass, and Stringed instruments they work on and Rent out! and they are just as knowledgeable about those as well. I mean if your looking for a Privately owned Local NO BS shop that shoots it straight and treats you like an actual valued customer instead of selling you junk for a hiked up price Then this place will quickly become your new home! -Ryan