I love Houston! One of the great characteristics of this city are the unique areas that have local flavor such as Downtown, Midtown, and one of my all-time favorite areas, Rice Village.
Rice Village is home to some great local businesses that many musicians already know about. But if you are new to the area, this list is a good starting point.
Amati Violin Shop
2315 University Blvd.
Houston, TX 77006
Website: amativiolinshop.com
They also have a Facebook page, found here.
Located near Rice University in Rice Village, Amati Violin Shop is a convenient music resource for professionals and students alike. The shop was established in 1984 and is owned by Master Luthier Peter Shaw. Amati Violin Shop makes, sells, restores, and rents out string instruments to beginners through professionals. They also do instrument appraisals for a small fee, and provide strings and other essential accessories. I have always enjoyed visiting the shop whether for repairs, or simply to pick up some strings as the atmosphere is welcoming. The staff is very knowledgeable, kind, and have a passion for music.
Dromgoole's Fine Writing Instruments
2515 Rice Blvd.
Houston, TX 77005
Website: dromgooles.squarespace.com
They also have a Facebook page, found here
This shop, located in Rice Village is family owned, and was once a typewriter shop! Dromgoole's has been going strong for over 50 years. Now they sell fine writing instruments, ink, stationary, journals, calendars, wedding invitations, and more. The selection of pens and pencils is vast, and a musician and composer are sure to find what they are looking for here with high end mechanical and manual pencils. Since they are family owned, customer service is phenomenal. As a music therapist that writes a lot of progress notes, I highly recommend a fountain pen. They even restore fountain pens!!! Check their website and click Pen Doctor for more information regarding restorations and repairs.
Half Price Books: Rice Village
2537 University Blvd.
Houston, TX 77005
Website: https://www.hpb.com/020
This branch of HPB is 2 stories! Since they are located near Rice U. they often have a great selection of records, cds, and music textbooks. The sheet music selection varies as many students frequent this hot spot for great deals.