when it comes to any stringed instrument: Tom's the man! I've been trusting all my guitars to him for more than 20 years. whether it's a rebuild of a freight damaged guitar, adjusting action, or installing, trouble shooting or replacing electronics: I'd recommend him absolutely. . . read more

Tom is not only a teacher of luthierism but of life itself. He has forgotten more about music and instrument fixin' then a full life of heavy study that any human can do. If you want to know more..... just drop in and ask a question. Plan on stayin' a while. read more

Local Music - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - South Salt Lake, Utah

When it comes to deciding whom to trust with your guitar, it's important they know what they're doing. And Tom certainly knows what he's doing. But it is even more important they know why they are doing it. You won't find anyone more passionate about music than Tom. If he is not busy, and you have the time, he will lay down enough wisdom for you to chew on for months--and not just about guitars. It's like going to church or a philosophy class, but infinitely better. Tom is a Utah treasure! read more

It's not a bad place to go and Tom is a very good person A little hard to fine but overall I got my first guitar and I'm loving it

Bought my first quality finger style guitar from Tom decades ago. Sold a Rolex watch in order to purchase it-happy I'm rid of that watch and happy to still play that guitar, among others. He also turned me on to a most excellent instructor. A real slice of life at Tom's raconteur luthier shop where selling and fixing guitars and other instruments is just a small part of any interaction with Tom and his varied "clients." He has gone to the mattresses as it were (no store front) but that hasn't stopped him from fixing and building more stuff. Give em a call. read more

My trip to this store was... interesting to say the least. I stopped in looking for a baritone uke (which he did actually have one, though I did not end up buying it). I had to crawl through a graveyard of guitars to get to his ukes, and at that point there was no doubt in my mind that he does repair work. There were guitars and guitar skeletons everywhere. The shop seemed almost in chaos, but to me it gave the vibe that Tom probably knows what he's doing when it comes to instrument repair. read more

My experience with Tom was top notch! As a beginning student he helped me understand what needed to be done, took the time to explain not only how things worked but why they needed to be fixed and he did it in a way that didn't make me feel less than. The time it took to repair and restring my guitar was quicker than anyone else could had done it, all along keeping the price reasonable and fair! Outstanding customer service and a real mom & pop shop experience! read more

This place is awesome for repairs. Tom the owner and luthier loves to chat, so go when you have some time to shoot the breeze. I saw the guitar he fixed for a 9 year old musician and ACDC fan, you could barely see where the finish was glued, and the instrument sounded great. The store itself is as a small town feel from another era. They don't have a huge instrument selection but did notice some beautiful mandolins. read more

Tom repaired my guitar which had dried out and warped after moving to Utah from California. He is incredibly knowledgeable about guitars, and music in general, and is fascinating to talk to. I would trust him with any guitar issue; he is a master craftsman. read more

Tom was amazing! I called the store on labor day to see if they were even open. Despite not technically being open Tom answered and said that his policy was, "if I'm in the store I'm open." I needed a humidifier for my acoustic guitar and he was very knowledgeable about his products and even persuaded me to purchase the lesser expensive product letting me know they do the exact same thing. He had a very inviting and charming personality and helped me with all of my questions I will definitely go back for future guitar needs. read more

Visiting SLC from Boulder, my first stop is always Local Music to see Tom. You never know what kind of vintage guitar you'll find, and I love playing one of his custom Gypsy instruments. Going to Local is like walking into the den of a professor. Chat Tom up, you'll get some knowledge. read more

I am not often compelled to write reviews for businesses, but this place deserves ten stars. Tom at Local Music is a master at his craft, and walking through the door of his store is always a worthwhile experience. If clutter or dust bothers you, visit the nice guys at Acoustic Music... but if you're looking for honest answers to questions regarding instrument repair, buying, playing, selling, learning, or even listening to music, visit Tom at Local Music. There is no other place in the valley with the same knowledge of music and instruments with a value that is almost wrong. I often want to pay Tom more just based on everything I've learned from him. If you are going to Local Music for the first time, do not expect a place like Guitar Czar or Summerhays. You will most likely have to wait, and finding a place to stand could be a challenge. Trust me though, it is worth it. I have had two mandolins and a guitar fixed by Tom over the years, and you'd never be able to tell by looking at them. I would trust him with a 1940 Gibson or a 65 Martin if I owned either. ;-) I can easily spend an hour (or more) at Local Music hearing Tom's stories and gaining something from them. If you start talking about musicians, he will likely pull out some discs for you to listen to... anything from The Carter Family to The Dillards, to Paul Simon. I always leave feeling happy that I went in. In my opinion, that is the kind of impression local business owners should leave with their customers. I will keep going back, and I recommend Local Music to anyone, whether they're buying their first instrument or their fiftieth. read more

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I bought a used Ovation that needed a setup. Called Tom in the afternoon to see what time he closed and he said he would be there till 6:30. I got there at 6:20 and he look at the guitar and repaired and adjusted as we talked. He fixed the bridge and nut and replaced the strings. I will return to Local Music when I need any guitar work done in the future. read more

I inherited an old J-45 with some major issues to it. I looked around and found this guy Tom with all these 5 star ratings on Google and decided to give him a try. After he was finished, my guitar now plays like a dream and even an expert could not tell the guitar had been repaired when I had him inspect it for an insurance valuation. Tom was a great guy to talk with and he even had some guitar tips that have helped make me a better player. This guy definitely knows guitars and other stringed instruments and seems to enjoy visiting with his customers\friends as well. I have sent everyone who mentions they have any guitar issue to Tom. Very reasonably priced as well. Can't say enough! read more

I wish i could have checked it out more. I tried to go in to see the selection of guitars but upon entering i had both employees just stare at me like i shouldnt have been there. They were deep in conversation with a customer who was blocking the entrance. I stood there waiting for a few minutes hoping for one of the employees to greet me or say, "what can i help you find?" No such greeting was given. Instead they continued to block the pathway and stare at me like they wanted me to get out. I simply turned and left realizing they obviously didnt care about making me a customer. read more

They helped me pick out a great harmonica, while they were closed. Had a nice little chat. Better than going to any big shop, great charm, people that care, interesting conversation, etc, etc. read more

Nice guy and knows his guitars, but he will talk your ear off. Only go in if you have time to spare as you will be there for a while. I do enjoy supporting small, local businesses and it's a fun shop to visit. He also has some pretty cool old stuff laying about if you dig around a little. A little organisation would help, but might harm the small shop ambience of the place. read more

If i could give this shop a zero I would. I carried a very expensive new guitar here for a setup and after waiting for an ENTIRE month it came back with approximately 15 dings. I will NEVER set foot in here again and wouldn't recommend this shop to my worst enemy. For repairs in SLC I highly recommend Brian at Acoustic Music. His turnaround is excellent and he won't wreck your guitar. read more