The story of Plum Grove began when founder, Rick Thacker, started violin lessons at age three.
In high school, Rick began teaching neighborhood kids violin, and providing them with instrument
rentals. This small endeavor helped to pay Rick’s way through college, and planted the seeds
to what would become a destination business for musicians all over the world.
After graduating from the Chicago School of Violin Making (2009), Rick married his best friend,
Elizabeth, (also a violin teacher). The two of them grew Plum Grove as a premier violin shop
and studio in Northwest Indiana. Plum Grove became known for its professional-quality rental
instruments, world-class instrument repair services, and creative lesson environment.
In 2010, Plum Grove took over operations of Fine Arts Music Programs in Beverly, Chicago.
In the following years, Plum Grove began to expand into other musical instrument types
including woodwind, brass, percussion, guitar, and keyboard. In 2014, Plum Grove experienced
its largest expansion when it partnered with Accent Piano Studio and opened the Plum Grove
Music Education Center.
Plum Grove has been named as one of the Top 100 Music Dealers worldwide by the National
Association of Music Merchants (NAMM.)
This prestigious honor ranks Plum Grove in the top 1% of music dealers in the world.
Plum Grove continues to serve Northwest Indiana, Chicagoland, and beyond with the most
remarkable experience in musical instruments and education.
Whether teaching a lesson, putting a beautiful instrument rental into the hands of a child,
or restoring an aged instrument to its former beauty—Our mission is to “Share Joy Through Music.”
"I first heard about Plum Grove through a friend, and I have always gone back for the low prices, friendly and quick service, and the wonderful quality of work." - Julie, Violist
