Skyline Music: Best Cleveland Music Shop

Skyline Music is a fairly small shop tucked into 3000 square feet of space in the Dover Village Shopping Center in Westlake, Ohio. I never would have found this little gem if it wasn't for my ukulele obsessed son and his musically-inclined girlfriend. They have been singing the praises of this shop for years. I finally made the trek to the shop last year and it is now my go-to place for guitars, sheet music and gifts.

The Skyline Music website does a great job of informing the public of all the news and upcoming events. They boast eight lesson studios with an impressive 400-plus students visiting each week, top-notch repair facilities and loads of instruments and accessories. But more than all the basics, the shop is staffed by not only knowledgeable but personable musicians. I often do not know what to ask, or where to begin, but they are willing and able to direct a newbie or take an old pro to the next level.

Skyline has the feel of a friendly, neighborhood store. In fact, I have to relate this music shop to the one the Mr. Rogers often featured on his children's show. They may not carry every brand, but they are incredibly helpful and can point you in the right direction.

While visiting, check out the Takamine brand. Skyline carries their environmentally friendly guitar line made in Romania from managed resource European hardwoods. The glues and finishes are also said to be environmentally responsible. This affordable choice has a solid spruce top and a delicious sound, for under $200.

Guitar lessons are taught by accomplished musicians with impressive bios. A brief overview of the instructors;

• Michael Barna who carries a Masters of Music in Composition from Cleveland State and performs locally and as part of several groups.
• Cheryl Fitiak has a Master of Music in classical guitar as well as a focus on jazz arranging, theory, applied harmony and improvisation. She is a classical guitar soloist and has been teaching since the mid 70s in Cleveland, Ohio.
• Daniel Rectenwald is currently pursuing his Master's degree at the Cleveland Institute of Music and has been in the winner's circle in classical music competitions. He studies jazz and popular music and performs regularly as a soloist and with groups.

Whether you come in specifically for a guitar, guitar lessons, or just to browse; it is well worth the trip

Note that the regular business hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Skyline is closed on Sundays and major holidays.