MUSIC WORLD ACADEMY Deeply Rooted in the local music scene of Thunder Bay
Music World Academy Ltd. is a prominent family-owned music retailer and service provider based in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Serving the Northwestern Ontario region for nearly half a century, it has grown from a specialized lesson studio into a comprehensive “musical mecca” for professional and hobbyist musicians.
History
The story of Music World Academy is deeply rooted in the local music scene of Thunder Bay:
- 1976: Humble Beginnings: The business was founded by Cosimo Riccio, a professional accordionist. It originally opened as a small storefront on Simpson Street, where the primary focus was teaching accordion, guitar, and drums.
- Expansion into Retail: As the popularity of his lessons grew, Riccio began selling instruments to his students. Over the decades, the business transitioned from a teaching academy to a major retail powerhouse.
- 2011: Going Digital: To keep pace with the modern market, the company launched its online webstore, expanding its reach from a local shop to an international supplier of musical gear.
- 2013: Modern Showroom: The store moved into its current expansive location on Simpson Street, boasting over 7,500 square feet of showroom space. This facility is now one of the largest displays of new musical instruments in Northwestern Ontario.
Dealer Profile
Music World Academy is recognized for its massive inventory and its “family-first” approach to customer service.
Management & Operations
The store remains family-owned and operated. Cosimo Riccio continues to lead the business alongside his wife Angela, their children (Enzo, Joe, and Emily), and daughter-in-law Pam. This multi-generational involvement has fostered a reputation for personalized, expert advice and a welcoming atmosphere.
Core Offerings
- Instruments: The showroom typically stocks over 500 guitars, 20+ drum sets, a vast array of digital pianos, keyboards, brass, woodwinds, and orchestral strings.
- Service & Repairs: They maintain a full-service repair department with technicians experienced in stringed instrument setups, structural repairs, and electronic work for amplifiers and P.A. systems.
- Education: While retail is now the primary driver, the store’s legacy as an “Academy” persists through music books, workshops, and occasional clinics featuring world-class musicians.
Authorized Brands
Music World is the exclusive or primary regional dealer for a massive list of industry-standard brands:
- Guitars/Amps: Fender, Gibson, Martin, Taylor, Ibanez, Paul Reed Smith, Gretsch, Marshall, Orange, and Vox.
- Drums/Keys: Pearl, Tama, Yamaha, Roland, and Korg.
- Audio/Pro Sound: Bose, Mackie, QSC, and Shure.
Location
- MUSIC WORLD ACADEMY 443 Simpson St, Thunder Bay ON P7C 3J3
For more information, you can visit their official website at MUSIC WORLD ACADEMY
