Harrison Music, a longstanding musical instrument retailer in Adelaide, has undergone a significant transformation. Now known as Harrison Music Violin and Orchestral Strings, the business has narrowed its focus exclusively to stringed instruments, bows, and related accessories.
Founded in 1989 and previously situated at 68 Grenfell Street, Harrison Music was once widely recognized for its extensive sheet music selection as well as a broad inventory of instruments.
Historically, the store offered a diverse range, including guitars, fretted instruments, brass and woodwind instruments, orchestral strings, PA and audio gear, electronic and acoustic drum kits, and percussion instruments, along with a vast new and second-hand sheet music collection.
In a recent announcement, Harrison Music Violin and Orchestral Strings revealed it now operates within Consortium Music, located on level three of Adelaide’s Myer Centre.
The company stated, “After many decades servicing Adelaide’s broader music community, Harrison’s Music has now downsized to be a small violin and orchestral strings specialist only. We sincerely thank our customers for their support over the past 30 years.” The post emphasized the continued dedication of the family team, encouraging patrons to seek their expert advice for selecting orchestral string instruments, accessories, or repair services tailored to unique needs.
The shop’s previous location on Grenfell Street has since been vacated.
Owner’s Decision to Downsize
Graeme Harrison, proprietor of Harrison Music Violin and Orchestral Strings, shared insights into the decision-making process behind the change. Originally planning to sell the business, Harrison instead opted six months ago to downscale operations.
He explained, “It became clear that potential buyers either had the financial means but lacked the time or interest, or had the time and passion but insufficient funds. With our lease ending and my approaching retirement in a few years, the scope of the business felt too demanding to continue as it was.”
The gradual wind-down led Harrison and his son Christopher to concentrate on their primary passions: violin making and repair services.
Partnership with Consortium Music
Harrison approached Consortium Music, a fellow music retailer, proposing to integrate orchestral strings into their offerings as an additional specialty. Consortium Music accommodated, providing space within their Myer Centre store.
“We remain Harrison Music, an independent entity, but now operate from within Consortium Music’s premises,” Harrison said.
Inventory Redistribution and Market Challenges
Before relocating, Harrison sold much of the existing stock at favorable prices, donating some to charity. New sheet music inventory was transferred to Consortium Music, while the second-hand collection found a new home at Page & Turner Bookshop, also located in the Myer Centre.
Harrison noted a noticeable decrease in customer spending since downsizing, attributing it to broader economic trends impacting retail.
“Business is quieter than it has been, and even maintaining the full-scale operation would have been challenging. The retail environment is tough, but by focusing on repair and crafting services — investments in the long term — we aim to sustain the business and continue enjoying our work,” he commented.
Recognizing the store’s long-standing community presence, Harrison shared a meaningful message posted on their storefront recently: a quote from Dr. Seuss, “Don’t be sad because it’s over. Smile because it happened,” reflecting the evolution of the business with optimism.
— The Violin Post Editorial Staff
