Under a big, unmistakable blue roof on South Cobb Drive, Dirt Cheep Music has been helping young musicians take their first steps -- and seasoned ones rediscover their passion -- for more than four decades. Now celebrating its 41st year, the store remains a Smyrna favorite thanks to a simple formula: honest service, deep community roots, and a whole lot of heart.
“We’re family-oriented, through and through,” says Aaron Rathbone, who now owns the store his father opened in 1984. “We’re not just here to sell stuff. We’re here to make sure people feel supported and inspired.”
Supporting Young Musicians
And never more so than during the back-to-school season, when students across Cobb County are gearing up for band and orchestra. The store comes alive in late summer with the sound of questions being asked, mouthpieces being tested, and proud parents snapping photos of their child’s very first instrument.
“Starting band or orchestra can be overwhelming, especially for parents who aren’t familiar with instruments themselves,” Aaron explains. “Online misinformation can lead to purchasing unreliable instruments that frustrate a kid to the point of giving up. That’s why we prioritize matching families with dependable instruments at accessible prices.”
Making music accessible has always been a priority at Dirt Cheep. Their beginner-friendly line of flutes, clarinets, and violins is designed to offer solid quality without the high price tag. And for families ready to invest in something longer term, the store’s preowned and professionally refurbished instruments provide another great option -- without the sticker shock.
“We’re not here to push the most expensive thing on anyone,” Aaron says. “We want students to feel confident, and that begins with a reliable instrument tailored to their needs. Sometimes that’s brand new, and sometimes it’s a well-loved instrument that we’ve expertly restored.”
Aaron notes that in Cobb County, most students stay in band or orchestra for two to three years. This trend is evident at nearby schools like Campbell High, where band programs thrive with Dirt Cheep’s support. “If that’s the case, buying -- whether new or used -- is always more cost-effective than renting,” he says. “Plus, we have a generous trade-in program. So families can feel good knowing they have flexibility as their child grows or switches instruments.”
In addition to instruments, Dirt Cheep offers maintenance, supplies, and expert advice for families throughout the school year. Whether someone needs a quick repair before a concert or help picking out reeds or rosin, they’ll find someone on staff ready to assist with a smile.
A Welcoming Community Hub
Of course, what keeps people coming back to Dirt Cheep isn’t just what they carry -- it’s the way they make customers feel. The team has built an atmosphere that’s part music shop, part community hangout. Rows of well-loved guitars, nostalgic decor, and the friendly buzz of conversation set the tone the minute you walk in.
“Our crew -- Mark, Steve, Aldo, Carter, Pritch, Gabriel -- they’re all passionate musicians who love what they do,” Aaron says. “But more than that, they’re approachable. Nobody’s here to make you feel small. We want everyone who comes in, especially first-timers, to feel welcome.”
It’s that welcoming energy that has helped generations of Smyrna families start their musical journeys. From wide-eyed kids to curious retirees, people of all ages find inspiration and comfort in the vibe at Dirt Cheep.
“One memory that always sticks with me is the Cookes,” Aaron says. “Seleana got her first clarinet from us when she was a kid, and years later, she came back with her husband to pick out one for their son. They were all grinning ear to ear. I snapped a photo -- it was a full-circle moment. And the best part is, that kind of thing happens here all the time.”
The store’s role in the community isn’t loud or flashy -- it’s steady, dependable, and full of heart. Families often come in for one small item and leave with a little more confidence, a good laugh, and maybe a story or two from the staff.
And as Aaron looks ahead, that’s exactly how he wants it to stay.
“What gets me up in the morning is knowing we’ll still be here for the next Seleana, the next kid who lights up when they find the right instrument,” he says. “We’ve modernized a lot behind the scenes, but the feeling when you walk in the door? That’s still the same.”
Aaron grew up in the aisles of Dirt Cheep, watching customers come and go, instruments change hands, and music come to life. Now, he sees his father’s legacy in parents bringing their children for their first instrument, hoping to ignite a lasting passion.
So whether it’s your child’s first year in band or you’re dusting off the guitar you haven’t played since college, the team under the blue roof is ready to assist. Not because they have to -- but because they love to.
And after 41 years, that’s something worth celebrating.
Visit Dirt Cheep Music
Looking to rent, buy, or repair an instrument? Stop by and see why Smyrna loves Dirt Cheep Music.
2415 South Cobb Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080
770-433-0196
www.dirtcheep.com
Open Monday–Saturday. Closed Sundays.
“You don’t have to know anything about music. You just have to walk through the door.”