Topic overview
In brief
- Guitar Works in Evanston is closing at the end of August 2026 after nearly 50 years of service.
- Owner Terry Straker cited rising costs and declining sales as the main reasons for the closure.
- The shop has been a significant part of the local music community, creating lasting memories and relationships.
Summary
In Evanston, Illinois, Guitar Works, a cherished music shop, is set to close its doors at the end of August 2026 after nearly 50 years of operation. The owner, Terry Straker, cited rising costs, including skyrocketing tariffs on instruments imported from China and increasing property taxes, as significant factors contributing to the store's declining sales. The decision to close has left many customers and musicians feeling a deep sense of loss, as the shop has been a hub for the local music community, fostering relationships and memories over the decades. Straker reflected on the store's history, recalling high-profile musicians who visited and the personal memories he created there, including moments with his daughter. As the store prepares for its final days, the community is coming together to celebrate the legacy of Guitar Works, which has been more than just a retail space; it has been a family for many who walked through its doors. The closure marks the end of an era for both Straker and the loyal customers who have supported the shop throughout the years.