By Pete Whyatt
For musicians over many years Chas E Foote’s music store was a land mark in Golden Square. Charles Ernest Foote started the shop in Hornsey Road in 1920. In the 1930s it relocated to Soho and was bought by the Della-Porta family — the founders of Premier Percussion — where it sold instruments in various locations around Golden Square for the next 80 years.
Last year when the landlords increased the rent they were unable to continue trading in Soho so Foote’s was purchased by its sales director, with the financial help of investors who included Pink Floyd’s drummer, Nick Mason. They then moved the shop to Store Street.
Foote’s has a wide selection of musical instruments on display including drums, percussion, woodwind brass, string and orchestral instruments. Anything more esoteric can be ordered in. The staff are all musicians, have a great passion for their instruments and take pride in offering excellent customer service. They offer musical instrument rental and hire schemes which are ideal for children who can outgrow their instruments or adults who are tentatively thinking about taking up music but are unsure about committing to buying an instrument.
Downstairs there is a practice room which can be hired with or without drum kit. It can also be used for small group practice or tuition and workshops. Foote’s also provide lessons and tuition covering a wide range of styles and instruments and can guide you through the grades towards formal exams. Pupils of all ages and abilities are welcomed and classes range from beginners to advanced.
Foote’s will be promoting a regular musical event at lunchtime in the shop on the first Wednesday of every month. The Icarus Club will be a platform for high-quality, original songwriters to perform their work in a conducive acoustic setting. The first event will be on October 2. They will also be providing music for the Store Street Shindig on October 19, 12– 5pm (part of the Bloomsbury Festival, Oct 15-20).
Chas E Foote, 41 Store Street, London WC1 7DB