Ellman's Music Center was founded in 1958 by Gil Ellman.  Throughout that time we have remained committed to our founding philosophy: provide quality instruments from reputable manufacturers and stand behind those instruments by offering exceptional service.

Gil, a former professional saxophonist, apprenticed for several years with renowned Chicago repair technician Leo Cooper.  His expertise landed him a job as instrument department manager at Chicago's Carl Fischer Music.  Gil's wife, Joan, studied music education at DePaul University and taught music for more than 25 years.

Originally located in Chicago's Loop, we moved our store to Naperville in 1963.  Our goal is to provide customers, whether student or professional, with the best possible tools to become accomplished musicians.  It has been our privilege to provide thousands of people with the knowledge and skills needed for a fun, exciting, and successful musical experience.

One of Ellman's greatest strengths is its knowledge of the needs of school music programs.  As a major supplier to many area schools, we offer a complete line of high-quality school instruments from a wide variety of reputable manufacturers.  Gil's extraordinary repair skills were a foundation for the business in 1958, and that legacy continues today.  An award-winning, 4100 square-foot, on-site repair facility provides service for all instruments we sell or rent, as well as instruments bought elsewhere.

Music plays a vital role in the Ellman family.  Gil and Joan's children, Mike, Sue, and Pete, grew up involved in the day-to-day operation of the store and now that Gil and Joan have retired, Mike and Pete run the store. Each are professional musicians with over 28 years experience.

The Ellman's Music Center staff offers instruction and expertise in all band and orchestra instruments. We are well-versed in the difficult choices musicians and musicians' parents must make.  

Ellman's Music would like to see every child have the opportunity to be involved in the wonderful world of music (ask about our educational supplement "Music & the Brain").  Hence our involvement with the Musical Instrument Bank (a non-profit organization bringing instruments to those in need), and a division of Urban Gateways .  If you have an instrument you would like to donate or have questions about how you can help, contact us.  You may also bring the instrument to donate directly to Ellman's Music, 508 W. 5th Avenue, just south of Naperville North High School. Directions to our store can be found here.