Celebrating 60 Years! Serving the String Community Since 1962.
It was the Fall of 1962, while studying violin at the Curtis Institute, that Charles Avsharian began importing strings from Europe and New York City importers. While professionals received discounts from violin shops, students and the general public paid full retail prices. There were no discounts for anyone except the professionals. All others throughout the country had to pay dearly for much-needed strings. So, he broke all the rules and began selling them at a 30% Discount! Now, the rest of the story!
Soon after observing his son’s tiny business model, Michael Avsharian Sr. began a mail order business from the family home in Ann Arbor. It is still a family business, with sons Michael Jr. and Charles serving as Executive Vice President and CEO, respectively. Both Michael Jr. and Charles are accomplished violinists and teachers. Chenyi Avsharian (Charles’ wife “Tina”) has joined as COO. Tina is an International Gold Medal Violinist (click this link to enjoy one of her many recordings).
Today, Shar Music is the recognized market leader in North America as a supplier of instruments, bows, sheet music, cases, strings, and accessories. Our community encompasses all of the United States and Canada. Advanced players and professional musicians alike have come to depend upon Shar Music's unique offerings. We are also proud to be one of the largest suppliers in the United States of the Suzuki Method™ materials for young players. Whether you're a young beginner or an accomplished professional, we work hard to offer friendly and knowledgeable service plus only the best and legitimate products.
At our offices, showroom, production shop, and warehouse in Ann Arbor, we strive to hire individuals who truly love music and find inspiration in the Shar Music culture. If you speak with a Shar Music customer service or sales representative, chances are they have a musical background. Careful training follows to ensure that each customer’s needs are cared for. The goal of training is to provide support and satisfaction among all customers. Training includes acquiring product knowledge as well as how best to engage with a customer, educate and assist in any way possible.
At Shar Music, we bear the mission of create access to music for all levels of musicians. We thrive to invent ideal products for musicians, to maintain repairs of the highest quality, provide outstanding knowledge and customer service, and create the easiest, most accessible shopping experience for all.
