TOM LEE MUSIC: A LEGACY IN SOUND
For over half a century, Tom Lee Music has stood as a cornerstone of the North American and Asian music industries. From its origins as a specialized piano retailer to its current status as one of the world’s most respected full-line musical instrument dealers, the company has maintained a singular focus: bringing the joy of music-making to the community.
A Storied History
The Tom Lee Music legacy began in 1953, when founder Thomas T.V. Lee opened a small musical instrument shop in Wan Chai, Hong Kong. Driven by a “music farmer” philosophy—cultivating the love of music where it didn’t yet exist—the business flourished.
- 1960: The company became the exclusive distributor of Yamaha in Hong Kong.
- 1969: Tom Lee Music expanded to North America, incorporating in Vancouver, British Columbia.
- Growth: What started as a humble piano shop on the Canadian west coast evolved into a massive retail operation, eventually becoming the exclusive representative for the Steinway & Sons family of pianos in several major Canadian regions.
While the Hong Kong and Canadian operations now function independently, they share the same DNA: a deep-rooted commitment to quality and education.
Strategic Locations
Today, Tom Lee Music operates a network of flagship showrooms and specialized galleries across Canada and Asia selling a wide range of musical instruments, equipment, and accessories both online and in physical stores.
Tom Lee Music offers a comprehensive selection of musical products and related services.
- Instruments: A vast array of instruments are available, including acoustic and digital pianos, guitars, drums, keyboards, synthesizers, band instruments (flutes, trumpets, saxophones), and orchestral strings.
- Audio Equipment: The company sells professional recording equipment, live sound gear (PA speakers, mixers, lighting), and DJ equipment (turntables, controllers).
- Accessories & Publications: In addition to instruments, it provides accessories, maintenance care kits
- Repairs: Expert repair services are available for a wide variety of instruments, from acoustic pianos and guitars to brass and woodwind instruments.
- Rentals: Rental services include instruments for students, piano rent-to-own programs, and concert & artist piano services for events.
Canada (Tom Lee Music & Steinway Piano Galleries)
The Canadian headquarters is located in a beautifully renovated heritage building in Downtown Vancouver. In total, the Canadian arm operates 12 locations, including:
- British Columbia: Vancouver (Granville St.), Richmond, Coquitlam, Langley, and Victoria.
- Steinway Piano Galleries: Exclusive specialized showrooms in Calgary, Ottawa, Markham, and Mississauga, catering to the world’s most discerning pianists.
Hong Kong & Macau
The Asian operation is a retail powerhouse with approximately 15 stores in Hong Kong and one in Macau. Its 30,000-square-foot flagship in Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the largest musical instrument outlets in Southeast Asia.
Commitment to Musicians & Education
Tom Lee Music is more than a retailer; it is a cultural institution. Their commitment to the “music-making experience” is reflected in several key pillars:
The Tom Lee Music Academy
The company believes that education is the bedrock of the industry. Their academies offer:
- Yamaha Music Education System: A world-renowned curriculum for children as young as three.
- Versatile Instruction: Lessons in piano, guitar, violin, drums, and voice for all ages.
- Performance Opportunities: Regular recitals and “Play-A-Thons” that give students a platform to showcase their progress.
Community & Philanthropy
Tom Lee Music has received numerous awards, including the Vancouver Board of Trade Business and the Arts Award, for its sustained support of local culture. They provide instruments and sponsorship for:
- The Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra
- Major music festivals (e.g., Blueridge Music Festival)
- University music programs (UBC, VCC, and Douglas College)
- Charitable initiatives, such as fundraising recitals for disaster relief.
Technical Excellence
To support professional musicians, they maintain state-of-the-art service departments. This includes certified piano technicians, instrument repair workshops, and specialized “House of Worship” consulting to help community organizations optimize their sound and stage equipment.
“Our aim is to provide every person with an enjoyable music-making experience by delivering quality music products and services… in an inspiring retail environment.
” — Tom Lee Music Mission Statement
For more information, you can visit their official website at tomleemusic.ca
