About Chick Music
From a single piano shop to a cornerstone of the Athens music community — our story spans more than eight decades of family ownership and dedication to musicians across Northeast Georgia.
Where It All Began
Chick Music started as Chick Piano, a small shop serving Athens musicians. In the mid-1960s, Billy Van Shepherd and Anne Hunter Shepherd purchased the business from Mrs. Chick, transforming it into the full-service music store the community knows today.
Anne Shepherd (1929–2022) — a Statham High School graduate and University of Georgia alumna — led the store for decades after Billy's passing in 1988. Under her steady hand, Chick Music grew into a trusted resource for instrument sales, rentals, repairs, and lessons.
One remarkable piece of our history: Mrs. Pascal, Mr. Chick's original secretary, kept meticulous daily records of store happenings in 1966 — a window into the early days of a business that would become an Athens institution.
Our Story at a Glance
Chick Piano opens its doors, beginning decades of service to Athens and Northeast Georgia.
Billy and Anne Shepherd purchase the store from Mrs. Chick, renaming and expanding it into Chick Music.
Mrs. Pascal, the original secretary, keeps detailed daily records capturing the rhythm of store life.
Billy Shepherd passes away. Anne Shepherd continues to lead the business with dedication and heart.
Anne Hunter Shepherd passes at age 92, leaving behind a legacy of community, music, and family.
Rooted in Athens
For over 80 years, Chick Music has called 240 West Clayton Street in downtown Athens home. We've supported local school band programs, provided instruments to generations of students, and earned recognition as a favorite local music store — voted Best Music Store in Athens for our customer service.
Being family-owned means every customer who walks through our door is treated like a neighbor. Whether you're renting a first clarinet, repairing a treasured saxophone, or exploring a new guitar, you're part of a story that stretches back to 1942.