MUSCATINE, Iowa–In 2010, Ritchie Sound and Lights started as a live production company. As the business grew, owner Mike Ritchie wanted to tap into his love of music to bring a music store to Muscatine. He shared, “I’ve been around instruments and live music most of my life. Also, we hadn’t had a music store in town for several years, and I really thought it was something that a town of our size really needed.”

Ritchie Sound and Lights opened its music store in March of 2017. After moving to three temporary locations, Ritchie Sound and Lights settled in its permanent location at 818 East Eighth Street in Muscatine.

Inside, customers will find a full selection of supplies for playing and caring for a variety of instruments. “We try to keep all the things people really want and need in stock,” Ritchie said. However, if a client needs a specialty part or accessory, Ritchie will always gladly help them get it. “Our inventory is still growing all the time to accommodate even more needs, but of course, just about anything we don’t have in stock, can be ordered for a customer,” he emphasized.

For students taking private instrument lessons or playing in the band or orchestra at school, Ritchie Sound and Lights can supply them with an instrument through their rent to own program. By partnering with an instrument rental company, Ritchie Sound and Lights offers all manner of name brand band and orchestra instruments at a low monthly cost to renters. If a student stops playing an instrument, they may return it and stop renting it without a fee. If a student switches to a new instrument or needs to transition to a different size or style, they may also do so without penalty. If a student knows they would like to stick with their chosen instrument, they may also pay off their remaining balance early at a notable discount.

As in their earliest days, Ritchie Sound and Lights continues to provide equipment for live events. If you would like to consult with them about a performance or special event, Ritchie encourages you to contact him by visiting the store, calling him at 563-261-7457, emailing him, or sending a Facebook message.

Over the years, Ritchie has found he really values getting to work with all of his customers: “I really enjoy working with the public. I’ve been involved in retail for most of my life, and really like it.”

This winter, Ritchie Sound and Lights joined the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to provide Ritchie a chance to give back to the community that has supported him and to meet even more outstanding customers. “First, I really want to be more involved in the community and interact with other local business people,” he stated: “Secondly, I thought it would be a good way to get our business out in front of more people. They seem to really be doing a nice job for local businesses.”