Nick Rail Music is celebrating 40 years in business and growth from a single Southern California music store into a multi-location retailer focused on instrument sales, rentals, repairs and music education. Since opening in 1986, the company has expanded its footprint across Southern California while maintaining a strong emphasis on supporting school music programs and musicians through retail services, private lessons and educational initiatives.
“Our goal is to help everyone find an instrument that speaks to them and to become the best musician they can become,” said owner Laura Penrose. “Our dedication to music education, and being owned and operated by active musicians, is what has differentiated us across the decades. We have a willingness to change with the times, stay focused on what is most important and serve the customer the best we can.”
The retailer commemorated the milestone with anniversary celebrations at each of its locations, featuring giveaways, raffle drawings, free restringing, special pricing, live performances and educational clinics. Remo also produced custom Nick Rail Music drumheads featuring the company’s 40th anniversary logo.
“It definitely feels crazy as a newer owner of such a legacy company,” Penrose said. “It feels odd that the company was established when I was only a year old! It also makes me feel proud and honored to lead such an amazing company and determined to last another 40 years.”
Looking ahead, Penrose said Nick Rail Music is constantly adjusting and realigning with what is going on in the MI industry — both on the manufacturer and consumer side.
“Things are constantly changing and we have to keep up with the times,” Penrose said. “We are integrating AI into more of our operations and are looking to expand into other territories and areas of consumerism.”
Penrose credits the retailer’s longevity to its longstanding investment in music education and community engagement. In addition to serving schools through rentals, Nick Rail Music regularly partners with local music programs by hosting clinics and master classes while donating to schools.
“I don’t think it’s crazy to say that Nick Rail Music has impacted most, if not all, music programs in the areas we service — everything from repairs, rentals, high quality products, clinics, master classes and professional development,” Penrose said. “We make donations to local music groups, schools and booster programs. We also bring in free master clinicians, performers, and other professionals to teach students about the music products industry and general musicianship.” MI
