NYC Guitar school is one stop for learning guitar, restarting guitar, singing or wanting community…read morewith other musicians (there are also ukulele, bass lessons - and a ROBUST rock band program). In addition to classes there are many events at NYC Guitar School from open mic, workshops, guest talks... SONG LAB is a great new addition to that line up - members and non-members alike can join. Song Lab is a 3 hour block - everyone involved (ALL levels of singers, bassists, rhythm guitars, lead guitars) are taught their part of the chosen song by one the amazing teachers at NYC Guitar School. By the end of the 3 hours the song is played as a group in a performance type setting. Past SONG LAB songs include Rebel Rebel, Sweet Child of Mine, Creep, My Girl. SONG LAB is an amazing way to start playing with other people, test your skills, learn new skills, learn a song you have always wanted to play in record time, meet other musicians that you will see again in either virtual or in person classes, open mics, or join in rock band. My overall experience with NYC Guitar school and their top tier teachers has been so gratifying - I highly recommend Song Lab to anyone new or seasoned - it is a lot of fun.

Never having sung before in my life, I was a bit nervous and uncomfortable booking a voice lesson…read moreahahaha but in my 27th year on this floating rock I have learned that life is WAY too short to not do things you want to do just because you may be a bit embarrassed. I have found leaning into discomfort is where the comfort is. I walked into NYC guitar school on the 7th floor of 251 W 30th St ready to test my vocal prowess. The entrance is beautifully curated, with guitars coating the walls every direction you look. Immediately I was struck with a creative energy that I was excited to be around. I checked in and sat on the couch as I was about 15 minutes early. My middle school basketball coach would always say "if you're on time you're late." I normally am late but on the off chance I'm not I love to throw that quote around. Gaby, the girl giving my lesson, came in and got me off the couch. Her vibe was RAD. As we walk down the hall into a separate sound proof room thoughts began running through my head. "She better not give me any kind of compliment about my voice or she will create a monster..." I thought to myself while picturing my band selling out the Garden 8 nights in a row. We sit down, and she asks me what kind of music I like. I begin to give my spiel that I give everyone about how I love the Red Hot Chili Peppers and J. Cole, but I'm not a corny J. Cole fan as I saw him at the house of blues in 2010. I am always hopeful this will build some credibility... She immediately names DEEP cuts from both artists that I didn't think there was any chance she would know. "I'm in the right place..." I say to myself. I begin to tell her how I have never sang, but think I have good energy for it and how I kinda think I have a nice voice hehe haha. "You don't need to be a great singer to be a great frontman," she says. BIG mistake, Gaby. That is the first step to creating a monster. She begins to ask about me and what I like to do and I coyly tell her I have a major passion for writing. I'm really shy (shy monkey emoji). "What kind of stuff do you write?" She asks. I told her I write in my journal a lot, as I don't want to tell her the bulk of my writing is yelp reviews she'll think I'm a nerd hahaha. I eventually do tell her my unrelenting passion for writing yelp reviews, and we share a laugh. She then asks "have you written any songs?" I mean of course I have, but haven't we all? I initially resisted giving her a hard yes, but eventually did tell her "I have written a few..." "Will you sing one for me?" she asks. I was taken aback. My internal dialogue "She wants me to sing? In front of her? wtf?" I then immediately snap back into reality that I did indeed pay for a voice lesson, so she probably needs to hear me sing ahahaha. I said the same to her and we had another good laugh. She was so great at calming my nerves, saying things like "I PROMISE you I've heard worse," "Just have fun with it!" I have a bit of a moment here, sitting across from the stranger with anxiety rushing to my head preparing to sing when I hardly even sing to myself seriously. I take a deep breath and begin: "I knew right when I seen ya, I knew that, that I need ya Where you from, Valentina? What's your drink, tequila soda? That's your friend......" Alright I can't give y'all all of it, come to one of our shows at the Garden to hear the rest. My voice cracked a couple times in the beginning, but once the nerves died down a bit I felt I did it justice. "WOW! That was actually really good!" Gaby says. "You have a nice voice and a unique sound which is rare!" Maybe she was gassing me up a bit, but I'm taking that compliment and RUNNING with it. She immediately tells me to keep going and runs to her piano and starts playing notes to try and get the key I am singing in. Once she finds it she runs over and picks up her acoustic guitar, and starts playing chords along with my voice. Next thing I know I am singing this song that I wrote playing over chords, that was so F'in cool. Overall, the experience just made me realize how I need to be around these kinds of creative people more often, it's just so inspiring. Gaby gave me some things to work on until our next lesson! THANK YOU NEW YORK CITY GUITAR SCHOOL! GABY IS THE GOAT! IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__

I didn't end up purchasing anything, but as a music lover, I wanted to see what was available. Very…read morecomplete store. The guys working there are so kind and attentive! They let me play one of their pianos for a little bit. Will be back for a guitar soon.

I ordered a fender telecaster made a Mexico model player series from guitar Center earlier this…read moreyear. When it arrived in the mail, the toggle switch was missing the knob and there were three dings on the guitar that were very noticeable. It was packaged like someone retarded packaged it. It was just wrapped in Styrofoam and packaging tape like a blanket wrapped around a guitar. Needless to say I was disgusted and I will never buy another single thing from guitar center. I'd give them zero stars if I could.

When I came to Edward I didn't have much Piano experience. I have now been working with him for a…read morelittle over a year and I have improved SO much. The piano has become a real passion of mine. Edward is an amazing teacher. He has a lot respect for the piano and music in general and it shines through in his teaching style. He not only is able to teach technical ability but also musicality. Edward is well versed in classical, jazz, and music theory and is able to teach all of them. Edward really cares for his students and goes the extra mile to send them resources, customize his teaching approach, and host virtual and in person recitals. Overall, I am very happy with Edward as my teacher and look forward to continuing with him.

I've been studying piano with Edward for seven years now. He continues to challenge me and teach…read moreme new ways to approach practicing and playing. He has completely changed the way I play and expanded my repertoire. He is always encouraging and insightful. He's flexible about scheduling and is always completely engaged during a lesson. Sharing performances with his other students in remote and in-person recitals has also helped to build our self-confidence. I'm so happy to have had the opportunity to study with this gifted musician and teacher.

Sometimes you stumble upon a gem of place that is world famous and you don't even realize it. Here…read moreI am 5 years on and realize just how amazing this store is! 2019 Was traveling around the 50 states and hopped into this place as I was passing by... Just blown away by the instruments they had! Not sure how long I was in there, but everything from droolworthy original D'Angelicos, original Epiphones and more... So much of music's history of the past to the present. After I get home and watching guitar videos I keep seeing this store pop up. Keep saying 'Hey, I was there!'... Do. yourself a favor and stop by. See the amazing selection of instruments they have on hand / display. The staff was super friendly and always willing to help when I asked. Thanks guys! Look forward to seeing you again!

Sometimes you stumble upon a gem of place that is world famous and you don't even realize it. Here…read moreI am 5 years on and realize just how amazing this store is! 2019 Was traveling around the 50 states and hopped into this place as I was passing by... Just blown away by the instruments they had! Not sure how long I was in there, but everything from droolworthy original D'Angelicos, original Epiphones and more... So much of music's history of the past to the present. After I get home and watching guitar videos I keep seeing this store pop up. Keep saying 'Hey, I was there!'... Do. yourself a favor and stop by. See the amazing selection of instruments they have on hand / display. The staff was super friendly and always willing to help when I asked. Thanks guys! Look forward to seeing you again!

Matt is the Man! The team is top notch. There's a reason why touring musicians will bring in their…read moregear when in town. Matt's been working on my basses for years. Yes, there is sometimes longer than normal wait times, but it's worth it. There have been a few times when I've asked, "I know it's only 4 days away, but I need this set up by Thursday" and it's done, so when he takes a while to set up one of basses, I don't fret. He's also done a lot of custom work for me and I'm always happy. Matt also built my #1. Any questions about pedals, Jimmy's your man. I recently rehabbed my pedal board and Jimmy helped me put it together right at the counter. To the those who feel the place is "kinda cliquey", the guys know their customers. So while it might feel a little intimidating to new comers, bring in your gear, get to know the guys and you'll be treated right.

Treats even my budget guitars like they are worth a million. Has made my every piece better than…read morenew. Nothing but respect and camaraderie from the staff at the store. Matt Brewster is truly an artisan and an artist, and deserves every ounce of praise you hear about him and more.

They are absolutely so cordial so helpful and so kind. I highly recommend them This is the placeread more

Whether you're in NYC or Alaska THIS is the ONLY place to bring your horn for repairs!!!! And they…read morehave an incredible array of new and collector's horns, mouthpieces, reeds, virtually anything you need. Honest, reliable, solid and technically proficient to the highest degree...Jon, Rachel, and the guys are the musical equivalent of NASA engineers!!!!

Brought my tenor in here for a post resolder. Clay caught a few other problems on the horn and now…read moreit plays awesome. Price is about what you would expect for midtown.

Recently brough my Selmer Mark VI tenor saxophone to John for well-needed, overdue overhaul. I've…read morehad the instrument for over 40 years, and it has never played this well. John took his time and is a true perfectionist.

I took the absolute beginner class and my instructor is Antoinette, the owner! I've never played…read morethe violin but had some music background and I'm glad I opt for the absolute beginner class, setting my ego aside. Her instructions were clear and she's friendly and firm at the same time. They also offer the option to take the class only or purchase a student violin at a discounted price. I got the violin as I see myself continuing my education. NYC violin studio offers violin for all without the intimidation and at a fair price.

Excellent teachers and a fun approach to learning violin. I am a late starter and found my teachers…read moreto be respectful, helpful, and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend them especially for adult beginners, the best.