News Summary
Nearly 60 years after jazz legend John Coltrane’s passing, Giant Steps Music Corp. in Chattanooga, TN thrives as a vital hub for musicians. Founded by Mike Bauer in 1977, the store has expanded from an instrument repair shop to a retail powerhouse, generating over $1 million in annual revenue. Specializing in wind and string instruments, it serves school bands and orchestras, drawing customers from afar. With a commitment to Coltrane’s legacy, Giant Steps continues to nurture the music community through outreach and a dedication to quality repair services.
Chattanooga, TN – Giant Steps Music Corp., a key establishment in the local music community, continues to thrive nearly 60 years after the death of jazz legend John Coltrane. Founded in 1977 by Mike Bauer, the store has evolved from its beginnings as an instrument repair shop to a comprehensive retail and rental outlet, generating over $1 million in annual revenues.
Bauer, who remains the driving force behind Giant Steps, chose the name during a saxophone lesson with his instructor, Ed Leamon. The store initially focused solely on repairs but expanded its offerings in 1983, creating a unique destination for music enthusiasts and budding musicians alike. Giant Steps specializes in wind and string instruments and currently carries an inventory of 300 wind instruments and approximately 100 string instruments, including seven basses.
About 60 percent of Giant Steps’ business is tied to school bands and orchestras, which has helped the store establish a reputation as a reliable supplier in the region. Musicians have been known to travel from as far as Arkansas to shop at Giant Steps, reflecting its importance as a music resource in the South. To enhance its presence, the company has recently expanded its personnel, hiring additional staff to engage with local school music directors. Since 2018, the store has increased its traveling representatives from one to four, allowing it to reach new areas including Knoxville, Dalton, Rome, and the Atlanta vicinity.
Repair services remain integral to Giant Steps’ business model. Mike Bauer’s proficiency originated during his high school years when he began fixing instruments using tools handed down from his father, a former airplane mechanic. Self-taught in the nuances of instrument repair, Bauer still utilizes the first bench motor he acquired 55 years ago. The total value of his repair equipment is estimated to be around $500,000, much of which Bauer has made or modified himself. Despite employing many over a century-old repair technology, his techniques continue to be effective and highly regarded.
Giant Steps operates under the ethos of honoring John Coltrane’s legacy, aiming to embody the spirit of creativity and excellence that he represented. The name of the store itself serves as a tribute to Coltrane’s influential work, which continues to inspire a rich tradition of music in Chattanooga and beyond.
As Giant Steps looks to the future, Bauer’s commitment to the business is unwavering, though he remains uncertain about retirement. He believes that ceasing work could adversely affect his health and vitality. In moments of reflection, Bauer expresses a desire to return to playing the saxophone, an endeavor he has set aside to focus on nurturing the next generation of musicians.
In the competitive landscape of music retail, Giant Steps Music Corp. has carved a niche, cementing its role as a trusted partner in music education and performance. With a legacy rooted in repair and customer service, along with an ongoing commitment to outreach, Giant Steps continues to resonate with musicians across generations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Giant Steps Music Corp.
- Times Free Press: Jessica Kelley
- Chattanoogan: Giant Steps Musical
- News Channel 9: Westside Plan
- New York Times: Volkswagen Union
- Wikipedia: John Coltrane
- Google Search: Musical Instruments
- Google Scholar: Music Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music Retail
- Google News: Chattanooga Music
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
