About Us

History of Coulsons Music

Established in 1981. Coulsons Music was started in 1981 by Bette and Ray Coulson at 77 E Van Buren in Chicago. Ray previously had a shop  called Co-Di Music which specialized in importing foreign music.

Coulsons Music was located on so-called "Music Row" on Wabash, an ideal but competitive location in proximity to several conservatories and other music stores. Despite the competition, Ray's experience working at Lyon and Healy, Carl Fischer, Co-Di and Harris Teller meant the small shop survived.

As other stores shut their doors, Coulsons Music continue to thrive. 

After being a loyal customer for over 15 years, Francisco Ybarra decided to continue Coulsons Music in Chicago upon Bette Coulson's retirement. Francisco plans to bring a new and rich user experience to teachers, loyalists, and those looking at sheet music for the first time.

Today, Coulsons Music has a new home at The Shops at 900 N Michigan, adjacent to Steinway of Chicago and New Music School.
 
Meet the Manager
Ed Sasin
For 21 years, Ed Sasin worked for that famous musical establishment of higher learning, Carl Fischer of Chicago, in the Band and Choral Departments. For the past 15 years he has devotedly waited on and helped the diverse clientele of Coulsons Music.

Our Current Store
900 N Michigan Ave, Level 6
Chicago, IL 60611

Hours
Monday-Thursday: 10 am to 8 pm
Friday & Saturday: 10 am to 7 pm
Sunday: 12 pm to 6 pm