HB Woodsongs

Spotlight on HB Woodsongs: 50 Years of Music and Community

For more than 50 years, HB Woodsongs has been a gathering place for musicians, families, and students in Boulder. From its roots as a small folk shop to its role today as a trusted hub for rentals, repairs, and community connections, the store has helped shape the local music scene for generations.

In this Community Spotlight, Gary Gutierrez of The Lesson Studio sits down with owner Sondra Blanchard to talk about the history of HB Woodsongs, its impact on the community, and her vision for the future.

Community Spotlight: Sondra Blanchard of HB Woodsongs

An Interview with HB Woodsongs Owner Sondra Blanchard, hosted by Gary Gutierrez of The Lesson Studio

Gary: Thanks so much for joining us, Sondra. We’re excited to feature HB Woodsongs in our Community Spotlight. Your store has been a cornerstone in Boulder for decades. Can you share a little bit about its history?

Sondra: Sure. Woodsongs started back in 1971 as Folk Arts Music. Fun fact, the music shop in the TV show Mork and Mindy was actually based on Folk Arts. Over the years, the store moved around downtown, including a location off Broadway and one where Foolish Craig’s is now. At one point, Jon Eaton and Craig Ferguson owned it. Jon later went on to start Woodsong’s Lutherie, and Craig started Planet Bluegrass. Dana Flitcraft eventually took over the retail side, and when she retired my partner Shawn and I were able to purchase the store. Shawn had worked at Woodsongs for 14 years, and it’s actually where we met. When he passed away three and a half years ago, I stepped in to carry the store forward. It really has such a rich history, full of connections that have gone on to shape music in Boulder and beyond.

Gary: That history is incredible. What makes HB Woodsongs special today, and what are you most excited about moving forward?

Sondra: Inclusivity is a huge priority for me. I’ve been involved with Women of NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants), which encourages more women to step into all roles within the music industry. I want the store to be a place where everyone feels welcome, especially young people and women. I’ve also been expanding community outreach and experimenting with new offerings. On the retail side, we’ve been adding more pedals like Earthquaker Devices and are now looking into Electro-Harmonix. We’re also a Yamaha, Taylor, and Martin dealer, and we’ve been bringing in more keyboards. Our consignment program keeps the selection eclectic, which makes it fun for customers.

Gary: Speaking of customers, what instruments are beginners really drawn to right now?

Sondra: The Taylor GS Mini is by far our most popular. Lower-end Martins, especially the D series, sell really well too. Yamaha models like the FSA100 and FG800 are also top choices. It’s tough to keep those entry-level instruments in stock because they move so quickly.

Gary: I know a lot of our students rent before they buy, and we often recommend your rental program. What should families know about it?

Sondra: First, we make sure students are getting a solid instrument that will last, whether it’s Yamaha, Eastman, or others we carry. Our pricing is competitive and we’ve worked hard to keep it affordable for parents. We also take the time to fit students properly rather than just handing them something to walk out with. Repairs are handled right at our store so kids can get their instruments back quickly. The rental program requires only a two-month upfront commitment, and most rentals are rent-to-own, so every payment goes toward purchase if families choose. If a student wants to switch instruments, up to 12 months of rental payments can transfer. Families can even rent online through our website and have instruments delivered directly to schools before classes begin.

Gary: That is a huge help for parents. Beyond rentals and retail, what are some ways HB Woodsongs engages with the community?

Sondra: We partner with groups like the Boulder Philharmonic, Boulder Symphony, and Boulder Opera Company to host musical “petting zoos” where kids can try out instruments. At Planet Bluegrass festivals like Telluride, RockyGrass, and Folks Fest, we set up booths that have sparked a real love for music in so many kids. I also try to support the community by keeping our advertising local with Boulder Weekly, KGNU, and BVSD schools.

Gary: Where do you see HB Woodsongs heading in the next few years?

Sondra: Growing our online rental program is a big focus, especially reaching under-serviced areas where access to instruments can be limited. I’d also like to bring back our group classes, which were paused during COVID. On the marketing side, we’ve added Julia Jackson to help amplify our social media presence and keep us connected with the community. Another exciting development is that we’ve reintroduced fretted instrument rentals. We now offer Bristol guitars, mandolins, and banjos for $30 per month, as well as Yamaha Pacifica electric guitar and amp packages for $50 per month.

Gary: That’s fantastic news, and we’ll definitely make sure families know about those options. When is the best time for parents to come in for rentals?

Sondra: The earlier the better. Early to mid-August is ideal, since that’s when the most options are available. But really, anytime before Labor Day is best if you want the widest selection.

Gary: That is great advice. Sondra, thank you so much for sharing the story of HB Woodsongs. We’re grateful for our partnership and look forward to continuing to send students your way.

Sondra: Thank you, Gary. It means a lot to be featured, and I’m excited for what’s ahead for both of us.

www.hbwoodsongs.com