Anderson Music Co. Plans 75th Anniversary Celebration

Submitted by: Krystin Anderson

When Ernest Anderson started repairing and selling band instruments in the spring of 1938, he had no idea Anderson Music Company was destined to span four family generations, not to mention countless generations of area musicians.

Locally owned and operated for 75 years, Anderson Music Company is showcasing its milestone by hosting its more than 300 band accounts during a private celebration at Laurel Manor in Livonia on April 19.

A professional musician himself, Anderson initially started repairing instruments and giving lessons in his home.

“My mother wanted to take guitar lessons and saw his ad. That’s how they met,” explains Richard Anderson, president of Anderson Music.

After the pair married Anderson gave guitar lessons downstairs in the family's home, and

"That’s how they started. My brother and I grew up in the business. At 10 years old, I was helping repair instruments," Richard said.

Before long, the business grew and Ernest began repairing instruments at nearby schools. He opened the Anderson Music flagship store in Dearborn on Telegraph in 1952, where it still exists today in an expanded version.

Eventually sons Larry and Richard joined the family business, and ran it after Ernest died suddenly in May 1970. Sadly, Larry Anderson died earlier this year at age 80.

Today, Richard Anderson keeps the legacy alive with his daughter Krystin working by his side as general manager. Anderson Music now serves more than 300 school band programs throughout southeast Michigan – some since the 1950s – and has retail stores in Dearborn, Farmington Hills and Troy.

More than 5,000 area students currently rent Anderson Music instruments. And just as Ernest Anderson did years ago, Anderson Music still repairs instruments and offers lessons on everything from trumpet to bagpipes.

“Anderson Music has proudly served professional musicians, educators, students and the entire music community for 75 years,” Krystin said. “We’re throwing the party in appreciation of the music directors who’ve helped this local business succeed for three quarters of a century.”

Anderson Music Company is also celebrating its milestone with discounts on purchases at all three locations through the month of April. Customers should mention the 75th anniversary to receive a discount.