In the sprawling metropolis of New York City, where the cacophony of honking taxis and chattering crowds is as symphonic as a concerto, musical instruments can suffer from wear and tear. Just as a maestro fine-tunes an orchestra, skilled instrument repair artisans stand ready in every neighborhood to restore harmony. Here’s a curated list of ten exceptional instrument repair shops nestled within the city’s diverse boroughs. Each shop, much like a unique note in a melody, contributes to the vibrant tapestry of New York’s musical scene.
1. Matt Umanov Guitars
Address: 273 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 673-3883
Website: mattumanovguitars.com
Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Matt Umanov Guitars is a veritable sanctuary for stringed instruments. Renowned for their detailed craftsmanship, the team specializes in guitar repairs, restoration, and custom setups. Whether it’s a beloved vintage acoustic or a modern electric, the luthiers here approach each instrument with the reverence of an artisan sculpting a masterpiece.
2. Sam Ash Music Stores
Address: 333 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 239-7777
Website: samash.com
Sam Ash, a well-established name in the music retail world, also offers comprehensive repair services. Situated near Penn Station, this location provides convenient access for musicians on the go. Their team of experienced technicians tackles all types of instruments from brass to percussion, ensuring that every note rings true again.
3. The Guitar Shop
Address: 163 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (212) 877-6900
Website: guitarshopnyc.com
The Guitar Shop on the Upper West Side is like a cozy nook for musicians seeking both repairs and an enjoyable exchange of musical ideas. With an inviting atmosphere and an array of services tailored to guitars and basses, this shop combines technical skill with a passion for music that lingers in the air long after the last string is tuned.
4. Brass & Woodwinds
Address: 1401 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (212) 730-6577
Website: brassandwoodwinds.com
In the bustling vicinity of Times Square, Brass & Woodwinds stands as a refuge for horn players and reed enthusiasts. With a dedicated focus on wind instruments, the expert technicians are akin to alchemists, transforming flawed brass and wood into the instruments of angels. Their meticulous attention to detail makes them a cornerstone of New York’s vibrant music community.
5. Brooklyn Guitar Repair
Address: 272 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 622-2275
Website: brooklynguitarrepair.com
Nestled in the heart of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn Guitar Repair offers customized service tailored to the individual needs of musicians. The shop’s ambiance is enriched with the scent of sawdust and freshly polished wood, creating a serene environment for both musicians and their instruments. From fret leveling to pick-up installation, they ensure each guitar resonates with perfection.
6. A&M Music
Address: 4467 Broadway, New York, NY 10040
Contact: (212) 740-1200
Website: am-music.com
A&M Music, located in Washington Heights, has carved out a reputation as an affordable option for quality repairs. This neighborhood shop provides a myriad of repair services for guitars, basses, and even orchestral instruments. Customers appreciate the familial atmosphere, where patience and understanding guide each interaction.
7. The New York Violin Shop
Address: 1013 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (212) 382-3700
Website: newyorkviolinshop.com
The New York Violin Shop is a tapestry woven from the threads of craftsmanship and musical tradition. Situated near Bryant Park, this shop specializes exclusively in string instruments. Their expert luthiers treat each violin, viola, and cello with the utmost care, ensuring that the voice of each instrument remains as eloquent as its history.
8. Aloha Music
Address: 388 N 6th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 388-3898
Website: alohamusic.com
At Aloha Music in Williamsburg, the vibrant artistic spirit of the neighborhood seeps into every corner of the shop. This player-friendly space combines instrument sales with repair services focused primarily on guitars and ukuleles. The staff’s laid-back attitude dissolves any apprehension, fostering a welcoming community where music thrives.
9. NYC Guitar Repair
Address: 25 W 14th St, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (646) 759-6363
Website: nycguitarrepair.com
NYC Guitar Repair, tucked away in the Flatiron District, prides itself on cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship. Their diagnostic tools are state-of-the-art, allowing technicians to address contemporary instruments while honoring the heritage of classic models. Musicians can trust that their treasured guitars will be returned with newfound vitality.
10. Village Music Shop
Address: 226 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 675-5100
Website: villagemusicshop.com
The Village Music Shop serves as a cultural landmark in Greenwich Village, a hotspot for musicians and music aficionados alike. Offering comprehensive repair services across an array of instruments, the shop embodies the ethos of community weaved through musical collaboration. Here, every repaired instrument is not merely restored but reborn, ready to inspire a new generation of song.
As each neighborhood adds its distinctive flavor to New York’s rich musical landscape, these instrument repair shops serve as vital threads in the fabric of the city’s artistic expression. Whether it’s a guitar that yearns for a new lease on life or a violin in desperate need of expert hands, there’s a perfect match waiting in the heart of NYC.
