Our Story

Serving the Brazos Valley Since 1979

A Local Institution Since 1979

The String and Horn Shop opened its doors in 1979 with a simple mission: to provide the Brazos Valley with quality instruments, honest service, and genuine expertise. Over four decades later, that mission hasn’t changed — and neither has our commitment to the community.

We are proudly headquartered at 119 N. Main Street in Bryan, Texas, inside the historic Duke & Ayers building, which dates back to 1876. Walking through our doors means stepping into a place where music and history intersect.

What Sets Us Apart

We are not a chain. We are not a big-box retailer. We are your neighbors — musicians, parents, and music lovers who understand what it means to find the right instrument, get it repaired quickly, or help a student thrive in their school band or orchestra.

Our team has over 100 combined years of experience in instrument sales, repair, and music education. We serve everyone from kindergartners picking up their first violin to professional performers who need the best.

Community & Recognition

We have been honored as a Best of the Brazos Valley award winner, a recognition that comes directly from the community we serve. We are proud to be a trusted partner with Bryan ISD, College Station ISD, and school districts throughout Central Texas, providing director-approved instruments and dependable service.

Our Journey

1979

The Shop Opens

The String and Horn Shop is founded in Bryan, Texas, beginning a decades-long commitment to serving the Brazos Valley's musicians.

1990s

Growth & Recognition

We expand our repair services and become the region's most trusted instrument rental provider for school band and orchestra programs.

2000s

Downtown Bryan Legacy

We establish our home in the historic Duke & Ayers building on N. Main Street, becoming part of downtown Bryan's cultural fabric.

Today

Still Going Strong

With over 100 years of combined technician experience and a team that genuinely loves music, we continue to be the Brazos Valley's music headquarters.

Our Team

Susan Rieger

Susan Rieger

Owner & Manager

Susan has been at the heart of The String and Horn Shop for decades, ensuring every customer receives personalized attention and expert guidance. Her passion for music education drives the shop's commitment to students and educators throughout the Brazos Valley.

Paul Rieger

Paul Rieger

Owner & Band Specialist

Paul brings decades of experience in band instruments to The String and Horn Shop. His deep knowledge of brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments helps students and professionals find exactly what they need.

Harold Turbyfill

Harold Turbyfill

Master String Repair Technician

Harold is one of the most respected luthiers in Central Texas. With decades of experience in violin, viola, cello, and bass repair, Harold restores instruments to their full potential and keeps student instruments playing beautifully.

Patrick Wuensche

Patrick Wuensche

Band Instrument Repair Technician

Patrick's expertise in brass and woodwind repair is unmatched in the region. From routine maintenance to complex overhauls, Patrick ensures every instrument that leaves our shop plays at its best.

Come Meet the Team

Stop by our downtown Bryan store — we'd love to meet you and help with whatever you need.