With numerous community events and performances throughout the year, summertime San Jose is a great place for music fans and musicians alike. For those interested in picking up the guitar or finding something special for the guitarist in their life, Silicon Valley offers a variety of resources.
Guitar Center
Guitar Center has developed a reputation as the go-to place for guitarists in the Bay Area, and for good reason, too. Ranging from beginner instruments to custom shop mods, Guitar Center offers a wide variety of instruments for guitarists of all levels with a friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Guitar Showcase
Offering a mellower vibe, Guitar Showcase is an ideal place for beginners. The shop offers a month of free guitar lessons with the purchase of most new guitars. Guitar Showcase also has an extensive collection of rare and vintage guitars for boutique enthusiasts.
Fine Fretted Instruments
For those who want to go unplugged, Fine Fretted Instruments offers a wide selection of acoustic axes. Specializing in classical and flamenco guitars, the shop also carries a plethora of instructional materials, including books, videos and CDs. In addition, Fine Fretted Instruments offers high quality and affordable instruction for players of all skill levels.
San Jose Rock Shop
This San Jose musician’s hangout is a great place for experienced players, and the shop caters to many local bands and artists. While not a guitar store per se, it deserves a mention because of the many services they provided, such as guitar and amplifier repairs and modifications, guitar lessons, and studio space. Check out their website for more details.
Gryphon Stringed Instruments
Located in Palo Alto, Gryphon Stringed Instruments offers electric, acoustic and classical guitars. However, what sets this place apart from most guitar stores is the variety of other stringed instruments, including harps, mandolins, banjos and ukeleles. Gryphon is a great place for those looking for something a little more exotic.
The Starving Musician
For guitarists on a budget, Starving Musician offers a great place for affordable used and new guitars and accessories. Starving Musician is also a great place to bring a used ax to sell or trade.
