40 Years of Musical Expertise
Welcome to Zebra Music, a cornerstone of the music community in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, proudly serving musicians locally and across the UK for over four decades. Founded in November 1983 by Rob Swain, our family-run shop has built a legacy of passion, expertise, and dedication to music.
At Zebra Music, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of musical instruments and accessories. We are proud stockists of renowned brands such as PRS, Tanglewood, Levinson Sceptre, Vintage, JET, Ortega, Crafter, NuX, and many others. Whether you’re looking for guitars, amps, pedals, accessories, or parts, our carefully curated selection ensures quality and variety for every musician.
Beyond retail, we provide professional guitar set-ups and repairs to keep your instrument in peak condition. We also offer music lessons for all skill levels, helping aspiring musicians hone their craft with guidance from experienced instructors.
Our Story
Zebra Music, formerly known as Zebra Muzik, began as Rob Swain’s vision to provide musicians with high-quality instruments and exceptional service. With a deep-rooted passion for music, Rob opened the shop in 1983 to cater to players of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Over the years, Zebra Muzik grew to become one of the area’s leading musical instrument retailers, earning a reputation for stocking iconic brands such as Fender, Marshall, Yamaha, Ibanez, Tokai, and Peavey. These brands, alongside our commitment to quality, helped establish Zebra as a trusted destination for musicians across the East Midlands and beyond.
The 2000s & 2010s brought challenges, with the shop facing a significant downturn due to changing market trends and economic pressures. However, 2019 marked a turning point for Zebra Music. Rob Swain Junior stepped in, bringing fresh energy and a vision to revive and rebuild the business. The focus was clear: prioritise quality instruments from brands we believe in, deliver exceptional customer service, and create a welcoming environment for guitar players of all skill levels and ages. Under his leadership, the shop regained its footing, re-establishing itself as a vibrant hub for the local music community. In 2020, Rob Junior officially took over the running of the shop, working alongside his father to blend tradition with innovation. In 2025, we rebranded to Zebra Music, symbolising this new era of growth and dedication to excellence.
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
10:00 – 17:00
10:00 – 17:00
12:00 – 17:00
10:00 – 17:00
10:00 – 17:00
10:00 – 17:00
CLOSED
Why choose Zebra Music?
As a father-and-son-owned business, we understand the importance of community and personal connection. For over 40 years, we’ve been more than just a shop—we’re a hub for musicians to connect, learn, and grow. Our knowledgeable team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect gear, offering expert advice and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Ilkeston, Derbyshire, Zebra Music is here to support your musical journey. Whether you’re a local artist or visiting from afar, we invite you to explore our shop, try out our instruments, and experience the Zebra Music difference.
Proud Stockists Of
