Reinventing piano practice spaces
March 7, 2025 - Rudolf Zoltner
Honestly, I have been following the activities of Shavkat Mamadjonov, a Dubai-based businessman, for quite some time. Although I don’t know him personally, based on his achievements, I consider him a highly creative and ambitious individual. What he has built in the piano market is more than commendable.
I’ve never been to Dubai, but the idea of it excites me. The skyscrapers, the luxury, the camel rides in the desert, maybe even moving pianos, who knows? One day, I’ll write an article about sipping Arabic coffee there. With a camel. But today is not that day. Because today, we talk pianos.
I recently came across a very interesting product that his business distributes: the Music Booth. I think it’s brilliant. Those of us who have been working in this industry for years constantly hear the same complaint: the piano is too loud. And so, we come up with all sorts of solutions: silent systems, various soundproofing methods for apartments. Some piano dealers have already recognized this issue, and many have set up rehearsal rooms next to their showrooms, expanding their business with a new branch while also gaining additional marketing and commercial benefits.
Shavkat took it a step further. I had to know more. So, I reached out to Shavkat and asked him a few questions.
Rudolf: You're bringing the practice space to the pianist. Is that correct?
Shavkat: You’re absolutely right. MUSIC BOOTH was developed to offer a "mobile" practice room that enables musicians to rehearse anytime, anywhere without limitations. Traditional rehearsal spaces are not always accessible, so our goal is to provide soundproof, self-contained solutions that can be placed in homes, hotels, schools, music stores, and even public spaces.
Rudolf: Okay, but how does it get there? Is it like a giant IKEA set that takes three days to assemble and makes you reconsider your life choices?
Shavkat: Haha, not quite! The MUSIC BOOTH is delivered in modular components, making it easy to transport and assemble on-site with a detailed manual. We plan to expand internationally, and MUSIC BOOTH can be shipped and assembled worldwide.
Rudolf: And the most important question - how well is it soundproofed? How much sound leaks out during practice?
Shavkat: MUSIC BOOTH provides 45dB sound isolation, making it ideal for hotels, residential areas, and commercial spaces. A pianist can play inside even at night without disturbing others. Each MUSIC BOOTH is equipped with a silent ventilation system, ensuring fresh airflow without compromising soundproofing. We also offer optional climate control solutions.
(Rudolf's eyes light up, an idea is brewing) I think I’ll recommend it to my young neighbors, maybe it will finally put an end to those midnight howls and screams, not to mention their endlessly creaking bed.
But let’s not get distracted by coffee talk again - back to pianos!
Rudolf: I assume you manufacture it in multiple sizes. I saw that an upright piano fits inside, but have you considered making one large enough for a grand piano?
Shavkat: Yes, we offer customized sizes and branding to match different needs. MUSIC BOOTH is designed for various applications, including Podcasting, Strings & Woodwind, Voice Over, and other musical instruments, making it a versatile solution for different creative fields.
To enhance accessibility and convenience, we have developed the MUSIC BOOTH Mobile App, which allows users to manage daily bookings, process payments, and control access to the booth effortlessly. The app is fully integrated with our smart-lock system, enabling musicians to unlock and use the booth seamlessly without physical keys. This innovation provides a secure, user-friendly, and automated solution for both musicians and venue operators.
Rudolf: I figured as much. Since we also work in piano software development, I noticed that you have several apps as well. Do you offer additional features? I assume pricing varies based on size?
Shavkat: Yes! Optional features include enhanced soundproofing, custom interiors, built-in recording systems, and adjustable lighting to personalize the experience. Pricing for a MUSIC BOOTH varies based on customization, but we ensure it remains competitive compared to traditional soundproofing solutions.
Rudolf: Here’s an idea if you’re planning to expand north - add a coffee machine to the booth. And if you go even further north, say Scandinavia, you might want to consider something a little… stronger. 🍸
Ok, and what’s next? What’s your big vision for the future?
Shavkat: Our mission is to make MUSIC BOOTH a global solution for musicians and creatives who need flexible, high-quality soundproof spaces. We are actively expanding distribution, developing larger models, and continuously improving our smart technology to enhance the user experience.
Final Thoughts
The industry needs to understand that our job isn’t just to sell pianos - it’s to promote piano playing itself. Piano teachers do this at the playing level, but we, as piano professionals, must do it at the instrument level.
Do you know what the most recognized word in the world is? Coca-Cola.
And what do you see when you step outside? Coca-Cola ads everywhere.
Are we doing the same for pianos? Are we out there, reminding people daily that playing the piano is fun, fulfilling, and life-changing?
Let’s be honest, the piano industry is not having its best era. That’s why we need to do more than ever before. We need to push forward, fight harder, and offer more and more value, more services, and more innovation.
This is exactly why I founded this magazine and write such articles: to encourage the industry, showcase creative solutions, and inspire others. Because, in the end... a well-placed solution is worth more than a waiting customer.
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