Love, love, love this place. Mr. Phil is a true gentleman--kind, welcoming, and professional. My child comes here to learn guitar, and I ended up joining the class myself. It's been an amazing experience. We also bought a new guitar from them, and they fixed our old one as well, which was a huge help. Ethan, the teacher, is incredibly professional and a pleasure to learn from. Highly recommend. read more

See all

Catherine was amazing and so informative without being overbearing. I came in to buy a guitar for a college grad gift. He was with me and she guided him to the perfect guitar for him! I would definitely recommend Guitar Merchant and may even go back for myself! Thank you Catherine. read more

Guitar Merchant - Erick choosing a fabulous guitar just right for him! - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

Phil is a doll! He is knowledgeable, interesting, helpful, and this place is a little slice of heaven. It has a place in the back where musies can get together and showcase their skills. this is what makes the industry beautiful. This is what music is all about. It's more than parts and instruments. It's connection. Highest recommendations :) read more

Guitar Merchant - Behind the curtain ... making music happen! - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

These guys are great. I stepped in just to check it out as I grew up in the valley but never stopped here. Immediately it felt like I was with family. Had a great conversation with Cyrus as I checked out their very cool boutique inventory. If I weren't saving for a dumb quad cortex I would have bought several guitars and pedals as their deals are stellar. Highly recommend. read more

I realized it's been a while since I wrote my review, and there's additional details I would be remiss not to mention, so here is a 2025 update! I need to mention at the top of this review that if you are a new player and looking for a guitar (electric or acoustic), bass (electric or acoustic), amp, pedals, capos, picks, strings, straps, cables, just about anything you need... look no further, this is THE place where you can get hands on with the gear, play it, feel it, and talk to KNOWLEDGEABLE staff about what to select. Prices are VERY reasonable, especially since they have generally done work on the instruments here before they hit the floor, this isn't your big-box "pull a guitar out of the shipping box and slap a price tag on it" store, this is a business that cares about instruments, and they take care to make sure any instrument for sale on their floor is in the best possible condition prior to sale. Guitar Merchant will take care of you! And if you are new to your instrument, they have the most amazing teachers, more on that later. I can't say enough nice things about the owner Phil... this place is a result of his vision and decades of hard work. The more time I spend here the more respect I have for the man... truly collaborative, always open to new ideas, and an incredible mentor for the community. The way he treats the staff here as not just employees but members of a family and trusted collaborators... everything is done out in the open, he always asks their feedback, the guy truly understands servant leadership and taking care of customers. And that's just the business side! You'll be hard pressed to find anyone who cares more about music than Phil St. Germain... he walks the walk and talks the talk. He truly believes that music is one of the greatest human creations and the venue he has built and the shows that he hosts prove this! Now the guitar store staff: There's Catherine, who is Phil's right-hand and does everything from scheduling to running the sound board... she is an incredible audio engineer, she plays the sound board like an instrument and has a ton of experience with live music shows. She's a huge reason for the success of this business, and is the one who is on top of everything and makes sure things run like a well oiled machine. If you are taking lessons here, you'll likely work with her to get scheduled, and she's always on top of communicating, reminding, and making sure that students and teachers can focus on the learning process and not the logistics. She's amazing. Then there's Ethan and Sylvana, who are the techs/luthiers that do a lot of the repair and setup work... and they really know their stuff! This isn't like some of the bigger stores where it's a crap shoot when you leave your guitar with them, these two really care about guitars and will not rest until they are in the best possible condition. I've watched them spend literally hours on details that most other techs would just brush off... when you take an instrument into Guitar Merchant for any work, be it a string change or a full setup, they will take great care of it and you can rest assured you will get your gear back in tip-top shape! Now on to the teachers, there are so many here, and they are all amazing people, but I can only speak to a handful that I have direct experience with, and I list them alphabetically here: Giuseppe Alleva - I can't think of a more inspiring teacher, when you hear his personal story and how music has enriched his life (and what he's overcome to continue to play/teach it) you are sure to be moved. Not only is he a great and patient teacher, he's just an all around nice guy. Both a guitar teacher and a band coach (yes, that's right, they offer BAND COACHING, something I could have used back in the day), Giuseppe is an inspiring teacher and a great human being. Nathan Douglas - My son took bass lessons from Nathan and went from a complete neophyte to a gigging musician in under a year. Of course, some of this has to do with my son's dedication and talent, but Nathan's enthusiasm and hands-on "gigging" approach to collaborative playing, and his general teaching method, played a big part in my son gaining confidence playing with other people. Nathan is a truly sweet guy and a wonderful teacher who I can't recommend more highly. Justin Hale - My teacher, who has brought me back to a love and curiosity of guitar that I'd thought I lost. As someone who has played for decades, it takes a special teacher to be able to help a student tear down all their bad habits and start over. Justin is INCREDIBLE, this guy has forgotten more about music and guitar than most people could learn in a lifetime... what he is doing teaching music in West Hills is beyond me, but boy am I lucky he's here... Justin will give you a music education on par with the best music conservatories... he is fantastic, and I could talk guitar with him for days and never get bored. read more

Went in for a gift certificate for a friend's son and like usual the folks at Guitar Merchant were super helpful and got me what I needed. We should be grateful for a local business like this! read more

Guitar Merchant is an AWESOME place to shop and learn music. Phil, the owner is an amazing person who sincerely cares about his customers and his employees and goes over and beyond to accommodate you in every way possible. The prices are right, the instruments are all top quality, the instructors are excellent, and the opportunity for you to learn the instrument of your choice is only up to you. Phil is the coolest car around and he will make it happen for you. You will not find a better group of people, musicians, or friends to learn from and play music with. It's a solid place, with a great vibe, and really good people. May God Bless Guitar Merchant! read more

Everything went well. Phil and his staff are really nice people. And, I believe the way he treats his employees and customers is second to none! Small store but he has quite the inventory. Plus he has one of the best stringed instrument repair technician around. So, don't hesitate to stop by and have a look at his inventory. If you don't see what you are looking for, he can find it. read more

Phil helped me find my new guitar and provided such kind and attentive service and offered future help with ny purchase. 100% better than my experience at Guitar Center. read more

Love this place! The owner is amazing and is willing to give out free knowledge. The prices are lower then anywhere else I've been and the quality is better. They fixed my 2 guitars and I am completely satisfied. read more

Guitar Merchant - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

The venue was amazing! You could tell a lot of time went into curating the look. It's cozy and artistic-- not like those hardcore venues with blank white walls with holes in them. I don't know what these older reviews are talking about when they say there's no air conditioning, I was there for an open mic a couple weeks back and I felt fine even though I was wearing jeans and a long sleeve dress shirt. Their open mic pricing is very fair, free entry, and $8 for two full songs. The crowd is very supportive, and Phil is the greatest. read more

I started bringing my son here for guitar lessons this past summer (2022). Our experience has been great. Phil is very knowledgeable about instruments and music in general. In speaking with him, it's easy to tell that he does this out of passion. Myles ('M') has been our guitar instructor. He's very personable and easy to jam with. We started with acoustic but have transitioned into electric as the songs my son are played with an electric guitar. Price wise, this business is also reasonable. I've purchased some equipment online and here at the shop, and the prices at the shop seem to match those online. Although it's a small store, there seems to be a good variety of equipment. You can find something here for all level of enthusiasts. While they doesn't advertise it, they do rent equipment here as well. If you are looking for someone to help you start playing an instrument, this is the right place to come to. read more

As a parent of a kid with musical dreams, I am overwhelmed by the love and support that Guitar Merchant shows for the aspiring and the musically inclined. Guitar Merchant has been truly tremendous in their nurturing and encouragement of my kid and, of course, I have nothing but admiration for Guitar Merchant because of the level of care they have. Finally, I can only add that Guitar Merchant enriches our lives, and I mean this with all of my heart. I needed to share this golden place with others who also might be musically motivated. read more

One of the best places in the West Valley for everything Music. If you remember a time before the mega-corporate music stores existed, your local mom & pop shop provided all that you need, and it was within your neighborhood. Guitar Merchant is that local neighborhood shop with an abundant Curriculum and a super friendly staff. Every Wednesday night they have an open mic night which totally reminds me of the old coffee houses of the 1990s. They're open late on Saturday Nights if they have a live music performance. If you are into supporting your local music shops, and you happen to be out in the West Valley, it would behoove you to check out Guitar Merchant. read more

I never knew about Guitar Merchant. It was one of the places that I passed a number of times and never really took notice of. Last night a friend of mine invited to me a show he was having there and I was very surprised. Yes, they are a guitar shop and it appears that they have several rooms were they give lessons but they also have a very nice small stage set up in the back of the facility. It is a spacious, intimate, yet airy environment. It was not claustrophobic or stuffy at all. Truly, it is a really nice small space where musicians can perform. As a life-long musician I truly appreciate places like this. It is a place where musicians, or, as in the case of my friend, bands can perform and get their chops together in front of a crowd of invited guests. If you are looking for this type of environment I recommend checking this place out. read more

Guitar Merchant - Cryptic Chaos - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

Excellent service. Phil the owner made sure that we were well taken care of. Being that it was the first time at the shop . He demonstrated all the different types guitars he had at the shop for sale . He offers private lessons. Also made us feel very welcome at his shop . I definitely made a friend for sure . Coming back to take a course on how to play a ukulele . Thanks Phil for being so phenomenal. And being a part of our community read more

This place is gold! I recently moved to this area of the valley. I was worried about having a great music place in the area being far from Hollywood and peeps I knew. I needed some work done on my guitars but was unsure of the quality I'd get. So I brought one guitar in. Not my fav, but one needing a bit a work. Omg, they did a great job. My cheap just play and whatever guitar sounded amazing after they finished. So I brought another guitar that needed some more serious work, 25 yr old acoustic. They made it sing. So I felt good enough to bring in my baby guitar. The one I don't like others to play. Due to conditions out of my control, it had severe intonation issues and some other minor issues. It now plays great. Tldr. Great place for guitarists. read more

Admittedly biased (my son is the drummer in the band Faded Youth a band which was developed and continues to develop out of this venue ) I cannot say enough about Phil St. Germaine who continues to bring a personal touch to this awesome establishment and live venue. This is his baby and he treats it so . Staff and instructors are tops. Bring a guitar in you probably gonna get it back that day or soon after; same goes for amp repairs. They feature guitars, accessories, amps, Ukuleles keyboards, and did I mention live venue with recording capabilities ? Open mic every wed ( zoomed for now) and one more time: Phil and Myles will treat you like a human more than a potential sales op. World Peace Through Music. read more

This venue and its owner have been the absolute best! Check them out for music instruments, lessons and access to new music. Great vibes and great people. read more

See all

This review is only based on the back room (used to be called the Verity Room) where they hold small concerts/shows. It's a nice intimate space (since the bands are unknown to everyone except their friends and families), but totally not intended for a bunch of kids jumping around. There is no ventilation or air conditioning. Imagine a small room, with a lot of teenagers, in the West Valley, in May! Almost passed out from heat exhaustion. All this for ten bucks and no drinks! Unless it will mean a lot to whoever you're going to see, you should pass. read more

I was sent to Phil by Godin Guitars to have my daughter's uke examined. I was afraid the joint was compromised or flawed in the back of its body. Phil was amazingly welcoming and honestly didn't have any immediate financial gain in the matter. He took a look and offered to keep the instrument in his shop so that Godin's sales rep could give a second opinion. All worked out well, no charge. Absolutely there were smiles & handshakes. I'm sure we'll be back! read more

I took my fourteen year old daughter to buy her own guitar and it was a marvelous experience. The owner is charming and helped her try every guitar she was interested in, gave her somewhere to sit and quietly play them and encouraged her to both take her time and encouraged her musically. It was a lovely, peaceful and positive hour or more. My daughter fell in love with her guitar that day and plays every day (all day!). I wish we could have made it to the open mic nights as I am sure they are positive and fun nights - next time we visit L.A for sure. Thank you for the great experience and the perfect guitar read more

Guitar Merchant has been a staple of the West Valley for over 20 years and offers musical instruments, classes, and open mic events. Phil is not only the owner but cares deeply about his customers and treats everyone with the utmost priority. Can not recommend any higher. read more

I brought my son here for his first lesson. Booked It with Phil who is the owner. He was very nice and welcoming. Our instructor was Nick and he was also very nice and wasn't rushing us for our 30 minutes introduction. My 8 year old says he can't wait to be back. This location is for the new one on saticoy. It was very clean and has some front parking but the lot isn't too big. read more

Phil is the man! This place is a gem in the valley! If you want quality music lessons and a clear communication with schedule and available, Phil is great! My son loves learning and it's so close to home. read more

What a gem for the West Valley to have a spot like this. Thank you Phil, for setting me up with a great deal on a Seagull guitar.

My 15 year old son has been taking drum lessons here for two years. His 12 year old brother started drum lessons last summer. They both have Matt as their teacher and enjoy coming to lessons every week. I bought my 15 year old a guitar from Phil and he just started guitar lessons with Chad today. Back in January, I bought a refurbished guitar here for my 9 year old. Emily and Phil put a great deal together for me. Lessons are reasonably priced. Teachers are very nice and patient with energetic boys. I could easily go to a guitar store closer to my house, but my sons and I like Phil too much to go anywhere else! read more

Guitar Merchant - My littlest guy with the guitar we bought at Guitar Merchant. - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

Phil helped me out with my guitar. Thanks PHIL !! Amazing place ! They have live events too!! read more

The staff at the store were extremely knowledgeable and friendly. I didn't feel pressured to buy anything. I bought a guitar for my daughter and felt the price was fair. read more

i went here to help setup and bartend a friend's show that was held in the back room. OMG. NICEST PEOPLE EVER working there. they were SO sweet, very helpful and kind ! i wish i remembered their names. :[ read more

As others have mentioned, Phil and Emily are great! They embody the true essence of a community-oriented business. Great selection, reasonable prices, and lots of helpful tips from Phil, Emily, and the whole Guitar Merchant family. They also have a nice group of music teachers for all kinds of instruments. Being that I work with kids professionally, I always keep this place in mind to refer families for after-school activities to keep their kids learning and having fun. They even have a great summer rock band camp for kids! Always a good option, whether you play an instrument already or are interested, just stop in and check the place out. Rock on guys, thanks for all the help. read more

As a singer-songwriter, Guitar Merchant has one of the best and friendliest open mics in town (every Wednesday night). They have a great staff and crew including, Phil, Emily, Bill, and their amazingly hilarious host. They make artists feel welcome and supported, what more could you ask for? Oh wait, did I mention there's free parking???? I drive out here all the way from the Westside, so it must be good! Plus, they have a great store and private lessons. You can't go wrong at The Guitar Merchant! read more

I came to Guitar Merchant to see a friend play and saw a great show with some really talented people in it. I also left with a new Capo. The staff was friendly and knowledgable. I would definitely come back again. read more

Guitar Merchant - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

Very Nice Place. Very Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Went to look for a beginner guitar I was gonna buy from some Poker winnings. Too bad things were out of my price range. So not to go for your first guitar but definitely to checkout if you like guitars. They offer guitar lessons too. Oh and they are connected to the Piano store next door. read more

Great establishment. Owner Phil St. Germain's "Phil"osophy is to teach people to play instruments and give them a performance venue. They sell acoustic and electric instruments that are good quality, inexpensive, and easy to play so as not to frustrate new students. They also have instruments on consignment. They have a full complement of teachers covering classical, rock, jazz, and folk styles. They also have lessons in songwriting. Young students can group together for band workshops. The Wednesday open mic is one of the best. Always a supportive audience for new people or pros polishing up. There's a real stage with lighting and full sound system with an engineer (Bill). There's a grand piano, a drum kit and onstage bass and guitar amps. Emcee East Coast Al makes all performers comfortable. And no alcohol; people come for the music and actually listen. I've been going for about four years. It's my weekly highlight. If you need strings, service, instruments, or just want to schmooze a bit, it's the place to be. read more

I co-host a Bluegrass/ Acoustic music jam with my husband, Norman at The Guitar Merchant on the first Sunday of every month from 12 Noon - 3:00PM (shameless plug) and have to say they are an exceptional music store and venue. If you are looking for a place to play or sing or perform this is it. Wednesday night there is an open mic night as well. If you are looking for something special for the musician in your life for the holidays or anytime, this is the place to get it. I have taken my Mandolin in for adjustments and re-stringing, etc. and usually get it back the same day! I cannot say enough good things about The Guitar Merchant! read more

Guitar Merchant - Music Venues Near Me - West Hills, California

PLEASE NOTE: This review is for the Amp Repair service. I dropped off my amp recently for a tune-up and repair which is outsourced to another individual. The staff at GM kept me apprised of the status and were very friendly. Also, they called with a quote prior to authorizing the work, which I appreciated. The work was done right and I am satisfied so far; however, the repair took longer than indicated and I had to make a return trip to the stir in order to pickup my amp dust cover as the tech had forgotten to send it with the amp. Overall, I recommend going to GM as they have a great staff and are one of the last real music stores and local venues, but do not expect a quick turnaround on amp repair. read more

Have been doing business with the Guitar Merchant for the last 5 years. It is a great place to learn and buy merchandise. One of the last local neighborhood guitar and music schools. Phil is the owner and treats everyone like a family member. Highly recommended. read more

As a professional musician for over 40 years, I have never been to a music store/school or venue that has the sincere, thoughtful and knowledgable staff that Guitar Merchant has on board. It starts at the top with owner Phil....A man whose kindness and willingness to make a difference in the community through music is unparalleled! His generosity and "go the extra mile for you" personality is so refreshing and appreciated by all his customers, the students who study there and the musicians who perform there! Emily, the store manager (and an excellent guitarist/singer songwriter) really knows her stuff. She is really "in tune" with todays market place, and it shows in her expert advice on lessons, instrument purchases and putting together the great shows in their venue. The Guitar Merchant is a "one of kind place" that has the integrity and joy for music in all its forms that is so lacking in the big corporate stores. The personal and informed attention you receive, will make you feel "heard" and have you coming back time and time again for all your music needs - whether it be to purchase an instrument, study with their top notch teachers, or attend an event, recital or show at their extremely cool venue on the premises. Can't say enough about how great this place is! read more

This place is a solid go to when you need new gear, used gear, repairs, or lessons. The owner is one of the most honest people you can deal with, and will tell you the real condition of the equipment he sells you. The community here is so loving, and feels like a creative family. I moved to the Westside, but still haul out to the valley for any repair or gear needs. The back room offers a great live venue, perfect for a Chance to catch local live music. read more