A Sound Education got its start in 2001, when two lifelong friends, Mike Doerr and Patrick Sheridan, decided to act on an opportunity. Mike and Patrick have known each other since the second grade. Neither ever imagined they'd find themselves owning the fastest growing music store in Chicago's Western suburbs.

It began when the well-known suburban music store that Mike managed closed its doors. The two friends quickly made plans to open a new business with the teachers and students from the now-closed store. Fueled on dreams and borrowed money, A Sound Education was founded. Both Mike and Patrick worked part-time jobs at night to keep the new store open during the day.

Two years later, Patrick graduated from college and the pair decided to expand the store as a result of the popularity of their lesson program. Four years later, the business expanded again to make room for the ever-expanding showroom.

Today, the store occupies two-and-a-half store fronts and proudly serves countless students and customers every day—and has been making musicians since 2001.

For more information about our lessons, visit our Lessons section.