The Early Music Shop Reviews 

1,067
TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

4.7

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Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Evaluating 436 reviews, reviewers overwhelmingly had a great experience with this company. Customers consistently praise the excellent quality and wide variety of products, finding them suitable for their specific needs. Many highlight prompt and secure delivery, with items often arriving sooner than expected and well-packaged. The service is also frequently described as excellent, with helpful staff ensuring a smooth ordering process. However, some customers also noted issues with delivery delays, orders not being shipped, or items arriving damaged or not as described. Additionally, a few reviewers were not happy with communication regarding order status or product availability, leading to uncertainty.

What people talk about most

Product

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of product quality, with many describing items as first-class,... See more

Delivery service

Clients share positive opinions on delivery service, with many reviewers highlighting prompt and timely... See more

Quality

Reviewers mention positive feedback about quality, with many customers expressing satisfaction with the... See more

Service

People report positive experiences with service, often describing it as first-class, excellent, and beyond... See more

Order

Customers consistently note positive experiences with order processing, highlighting prompt handling and... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I bought a Fipple recorder as part of my campaign to keep arthritic fingers moving. It’s great. Makes a good sound but best of all the holes at the foot of the instrument are perfectly placed for my... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

They carry more obscure parts and instruments that are hard to get from other places. The delivery took a bit longer than expected, but that might be just because of the current global crises, so can'... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The recorder bag I bought was exactly as described and fits all my recorders snugly. Shipping from the UK was reasonable, and the package arrived quickly. I would buy from this company again. I... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I got in contact with The Early Music Shop and was put through to the Snape Maltings branch. The member of staff (I think her name was Esther) was fantastic! She went above and beyond to check the rec... See more

Company replied


Company details

  1. Music Store
  2. Musical Instrument Rental Service
  3. Musical Instrument Repair Shop
  4. Musical Instrument Store
  5. Sheet Music Store
  6. Used Musical Instrument Store

Written by the company

The Early Music Shop is the largest source of historical musical instruments worldwide. We are an independent music shop specialising in Early Music instruments, accessories and printed music. Our expert staff have years of experience helping you to find the perfect instrument for you!


Contact info

4.7

Excellent

TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

1K reviews

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1-star

Asks customers to review

This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative

Replied to 75% of negative reviews

Typically replies within 1 month

How this company uses Trustpilot

See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.

4.7

All reviews

(1,067)

440 reviews in the last 12 months

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Companies on Trustpilot aren't allowed to offer incentives or pay to hide reviews. Reviews are the opinions of individual users and not of Trustpilot. Read more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent service

I was very pleased with the instrument I purchased which arrived extremely quickly. I would certainly purchase from them again.

February 19, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Great to hear this, glad we were able to help! Enjoy your purchase.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Good products

Good products, fast delivery.

February 20, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Great to hear this, thank you!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Quick service

The service was quick, even considering the horrible weather. The music arrived in perfect condition. I look forward to buying from them again. 5 stars!

February 20, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Thank you very much - we aim to deliver, whatever the weather! We look forward to welcoming you back.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

great selection of early music…

great selection of early music instruments and knowledgeable staff

February 19, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Thank you! Glad we could help out with your purchase.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Lovely Sopranino recorder

Lovely Sopranino recorder - delivered quickly and a really nice sound. Very happy with this beautiful little instrument.

February 18, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Thank you - enjoy!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Delivery was timely, good selection.

Delivery was timely, and in good condition. Good selection of instruments. Was able to get a better alternative to the Yamaha recorderwith much nicer sound for only $30 more.

February 18, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

This is great feedback, thank you. We're glad you found the right instrument for you.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Buying an expensive instrument remotely—made easy and stress-free

Buying a very expensive instrument remotely can be incredibly stressful—so many details, so much trust involved, and you want everything handled perfectly. Alfie at The Early Music Shop made the whole process smooth from start to finish.

Communication was fast, clear, and genuinely friendly, and every question I had was answered with professionalism and patience. I always felt informed and reassured at each step.

If you’re considering a serious purchase from a distance, I can honestly say you’ll be in excellent hands here. Highly recommended.

February 16, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review. We completely understand that making a significant purchase at any distance can feel daunting, so it’s especially lovely to hear that the process felt smooth and reassuring throughout.
Alfie will be delighted to know that his communication and care made a difference, and we'll be sure to let him know.
Thank you again for your trust and recommendation.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I appreciate the shops’ inventory and…

I appreciate the shops’ inventory and delivery from UK to Western Canada. A store that I can count on if I manage to get talented. 🙂

February 12, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

We're always on hand! Much talent already, we've no doubt!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Fast

Fast, beautifully packed and not too expensive.

February 13, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

We'll let our packers know. Thank you!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely perfect

Absolutely perfect! Efficient and really helpful, delightful to talk to.

February 12, 2026
The Early Music Shop logo

Reply from The Early Music Shop

Thanks Caroline. Do let us know if there's anything else we can help you with.

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