THE STORY OF CALIFORNIA KEYBOARDS

Founded in 1976 predominantly as a piano and organ store, California Keyboards has grown into what is the most comprehensive music store in the San Joaquin Valley. In addition to being Kern County’s only ‘full-service’ acoustic and digital piano dealer, California Keyboards sells guitars, band and orchestra instruments, sheet music, and sound equipment. In addition, they provide instrument repair and music lessons.

In 2000, California Keyboards was purchased by Ed Tomlinson, owner and founder of Performance Piano Company. In order to facilitate Ed’s vision for a more comprehensive music store, California Keyboards was immediately relocated from Ming Avenue and Stine Road to California Avenue and Stockdale Highway. The construction of lesson studios ushered in a new era that continues to this day in accommodating the large demand for music instruction in the community.

With a variety of music lessons being offered, the progression from piano dealer to ‘full-line’ music store was under way and product offerings were expanded to meet the demand of the new students.  Tomlinson says, “We believe every child and adult should be able to enjoy music. Studies show that music makes you smarter and we know that music programs in our schools help countless numbers of kids succeed scholastically and beyond. We want to be a small participant in the joy and confidence music can bring to the lives of so many.”

Necessitated by continued growth, California Keyboards moved to Oak Street in 2006. This proved to be a more central location and provided additional space the growing company required. In late 2017, the store moved to its current location at 2408 Brundage Lane in Bakersfield.  The new facility boasts a dedicated repair shop and separate areas for an instrument showroom and music studios.  In addition, the store features a 78-seat recital hall, something Tomlinson has always wanted.

By offering superior products at competitive prices and by fostering a friendly, fun atmosphere with a knowledgeable staff that is always eager to help customers pursue their musical ambitions, California Keyboards has a great reputation among professional musicians, music educators, and students of music alike.