Business Details
Your Trusted Source for Musical Instruments & Expert Services
Established in 1887, Cookes Sound & Light has been a cornerstone of Norwich's musical community for over 130 years. Our family legacy began with Arthur William Cooke's piano business and evolved through generations to meet changing musical demands, including the Rock 'n' Roll revolution of the 1960s. As fifth-generation custodian Matthew Morrison leads our team, we continue to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation across our core offerings. Our expertise spans instrument sales, professional sound and lighting installations, repair services, and music tuition. With a heritage of understanding musicians' needs, we cater to both seasoned professionals and beginners through our physical store and comprehensive online platform.Our commitment to quality extends to supplying leading brands while offering bespoke advice tailored to individual requirements. The introduction of our installations division over 30 years ago expanded our capabilities to serve diverse venues including educational institutions, hospitality venues, and places of worship. We maintain rigorous after-sales support through maintenance contracts and responsive customer service. Located in Norwich's historic St Benedict's Street, we balance our deep-rooted tradition with continuous adaptation to contemporary musical technology. This enduring dedication to musical excellence has earned us the trust of local communities and professionals across East Anglia.
Services
Musical Instruments
Sound Installations
Lighting Systems
Guitar Repairs
Music Tuition
PA Systems
Audio-Visual Solutions
Instrument Financing
Music Lessons
Professional Consultations
Highlights and features
- We offer five generations of musical expertise since 1887
- Our installations team has over 30 years' experience in professional AV systems
- We provide free on-site consultations for tailored sound solutions
- We maintain after-sales service with annual maintenance plans available
- Our expert staff combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology
What people say
Professional friendly service
Excellent after sales experience
Helpful throughout the process
Quality of the equipment
Reasonable price
Services
Sound Installations
We design and install professional sound systems for diverse venues including schools, restaurants, and places of worship. Our process includes free consultations, tailored recommendations, and complete installation. We offer supply-only options, full installation packages, and annual maintenance plans to ensure optimal system performance.
Guitar Repairs
Our specialist repair service, The Guitar Medicine Man, handles all types of guitar and bass repairs. Located in our Norwich store, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. Phil, our expert technician, provides comprehensive repair solutions for both vintage and contemporary instruments.
Music Tuition
We connect students with qualified tutors for various instruments including guitar, piano, and woodwinds. Our recommended instructors offer lessons for all skill levels from beginners to advanced musicians. Teaching formats include in-person sessions and online instruction through affiliated music schools.
Lighting Systems
We supply and install professional lighting solutions from basic setups to complex stage grids. Our systems cater to venues requiring architectural lighting, performance spaces, and multi-functional areas. We work with major manufacturers to provide reliable equipment matched to each venue's specific needs.
Audio-Visual Solutions
We create integrated audio-visual systems ranging from simple projection setups to multi-screen installations. Our solutions include equipment selection, system design, and complete installation. We specialise in zoned audio controls and networked systems for educational institutions and commercial venues.
People
Matthew Morrison
Managing Director
Fifth-generation leader of Cookes Sound & Light, Matthew joined the business at 14. He specialises in guitar and orchestral instruments, overseeing the company's expansion into professional installations while maintaining its traditional values.
Questions
What musical instruments do you sell?
We offer acoustic and electric guitars, basses, classical instruments, ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, harmonicas, and orchestral instruments including violins and cellos.
Do you provide sound system installations?
Yes, we design and install professional sound, lighting, and audio-visual systems for schools, restaurants, places of worship, and other venues across East Anglia.
Are music lessons available?
We connect students with qualified tutors for guitar, piano, woodwinds, and brass instruments through our network of recommended music teachers in Norfolk.
Do you offer instrument repair services?
Our in-house repair specialist, The Guitar Medicine Man, handles all types of guitar and bass repairs using traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques.
Can I get financing for instrument purchases?
Yes, we participate in the Take it Away scheme offering interest-free finance for musical instruments, equipment, and tuition through Arts Council England.
What are your store opening hours?
Our Norwich store is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, with online ordering available 24/7 and nationwide delivery options.
