Neon lights flickered overhead, glistening like the dreams of countless musicians and music lovers who had walked through its doors. Amidst the bustle of Newcastle's Central Arcade, JG Windows music store stood as an iconic sanctuary for artists and enthusiasts alike for over 116 years. But as the final notes fade away, the beloved shop is now permanently shuttered, leaving behind echoes of melodies, laughter, and memories.
On November 29, 2024, history was made as the store's doors closed for the last time, bringing to end a legacy established back in 1908. The once-thriving hub for musical instruments, sheet music, and vinyl records became another casualty of the modern retail climate, struggling to compete against online giants and dwindling sales. With the announcement of its closure, 17 loyal staff members found themselves unemployed, and the North East music community collectively mourned the loss.
Among those who felt the blow was Neil Tennant, lead vocalist of the iconic synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys. "Very sad to learn this renowned music shop is closing in Newcastle," Tennant shared on the band's official Facebook page. He continued, "as a teenager, I used to visit after school and ask to listen to David Bowie in one of their stereo listening booths. It will be much missed." His poignant reflections resonate with many who treasure their own experiences at JG Windows, harkening back to times spent browsing for records and instruments.
Maximo Park's frontman Paul Smith also chimed in, recognizing the store's significance. "I have spent many hours rummaging through the CD and vinyl sale selection. It’s terrible news for the city center,” Smith described. His sentiments encapsulate the feeling of nostalgia woven throughout the fabric of the Newcastle community.
For many, JG Windows provided not just products but also connections – to fellow musicians, to history, and to craftsmanship. David Brewis from Field Music reminisces about the role JG Windows played as "essential part of the music community" within the North East. He noted how it served as a gathering spot, where aspiring musicians would post ads for band members on the walls at the foot of the stairs.
“From cradle to grave” is how musician Rob Tickell described the store, illustrating its comprehensive offerings from school instruments to serious rock gear. Tickell recalls the patience of the staff, who welcomed young patrons with open arms, allowing them to explore and dream without judgment. "They were incredibly tolerant of young boys who would spend hours staring at guitars before finally getting the courage to ask to try one," Tickell added. This narrative of support and mentorship is echoed time and again by those who frequented the shop.
Karen Mavin's recollections are particularly heartfelt. She bought her son Nadeem's first trumpet from JG Windows, and now he’s releasing his own music. “The staff were so helpful,” she reflects, framing the store as more than just a retailer but part of her family’s musical evolution. Another customer, Terence Anthony, recalled how he purchased his sons' first guitars at the shop, vowing, "Windows staff were exactly what music shop people should be. They offered nurturing and encouragement at every turn."
The decision to close JG Windows was not made lightly. Store director Andrew Little explained, "Despite our best efforts to transform and adapt through streamlined operations and launching new offerings, we have been unable to compete against falling margins and rising costs along with the general shift within the UK to online shopping, streaming, and downloads." This insight provides clarity on the economic pressures facing local businesses, especially those rooted in traditions prior to the digital age.
With each instrument sold and each record spun, JG Windows became not just a retailer but a cornerstone of the region's cultural heritage. Its presence enriched the musical fabric of Newcastle, serving generations across decades with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Community support was palpable leading up to the closure, with many taking to social media to express their sadness and share fond memories.
One user poignantly noted, "So sad. Always had to make it a trip to Windows. My grandpa used to get the bus downtown well past his 80s to choose his piano sheet music. Every department was interesting, even if you didn't play music." This sense of communal loss is felt deeply among those who cherished the shop, who saw it not just as a store but as part of their lives and stories. A sign on the store’s window encapsulated this bittersweet farewell: "It is with great sadness we announce JG Windows has closed permanently. Thank you for your support, custom, and friendship."
Dreams and hopes often been realized within the walls of this storied establishment. Many local artists learned to play their first notes on instruments bought from JG Windows, their first steps toward musical creation taken within its welcoming embrace. For them, the closure signifies more than just losing access to music supplies; it reflects the end of cherished memories and experiences tied to the store's legacy.
Among those who mourn are not just musicians but everyday people. Many expressed frustration and dismay over where they would now go to try instruments before making important purchases. One tearful customer expressed, "There's no way I would buy, say, a new guitar online. I want to try at least two or three and pick the one. Instruments are so personal to me; it feels impossible to think of going without JG Windows.”
The closure has raised broader questions about the future of small music retailers globally. With the rise of online shopping, many local stores face similar challenges, struggling to carve out their niche against powerful e-commerce players. Unfortunately, many such shops have already shut their doors over the years, sparking concern for the fate of remaining establishments.
Today, as the final dreary note lingers after the last string has been plucked and the final record played, JG Windows has solidified its place within Newcastle's history. Yet, it has left behind memories of joy, discovery, and community. Reflecting on what this closure means, store general manager Alex Cole noted, "Generations of musicians and music lovers, including my family and myself, bought their first instruments or recorded their first songs at this iconic arcade store. The city will be quieter without it." The cultural reverberations of this loss will continue to echo for years to come, forever changing the rhythm of Newcastle’s vibrant musical ambiance.