The Fret House

(3 reviews)

•$$$$

Lee is a consummate professional. I am on my second bass...he never disappoints. Excellent work!!!!…read moreHis communication is second to none!!! Living in Atlanta I have ZERO ISSUES sending any instrument across the country for his artistry. Highly recommend!!!!

GMW's history dates back to the mid-1980s and was initially formed by a team of founder Lee Garver…read moreand well known luthier Neal Moser, who had worked with BC Rich, Wayne Charvel among other well known guitar makers in California. At that time at least 50% of guitars in rock were made in California with notable exception Kramer, of Neptune, NJ and, of course, Gibson. GMW initially became known for repainting, customizing and refurbishing guitars but at some point GMW moved into hand-made custom guitar production as a boutique guitar maker. About fifteen years ago, Moser left to form his own company and Lee remained to run GMW and build guitars on his own with a small staff. Having dealt with Lee on two custom guitar orders I can honestly say he's a tremendous guy and a pleasure to do business with. Old school by nature, custom orders get custom attention with phone calls and emails. The client is never ignored or felt like a number. Communication is quick and timely and Lee responds to email in a matter of minutes. I've had him return emails to me at 8am EST when he is on west coast time. From order and initial deposit to completion, build time can vary substantially. My first build was a Charvel-style single humbucker super-strat that took roughly three months. The other project, just completed, is a telecaster that took a total of nine months due to detailed work on the neck - stainless frets and trapezoid inlays. Quality is unsurpassed at GMW. There is no assembly line production unlike say, Carvin, there is true hand construction including assembly and final setup by Lee himself. Painting is done by staff and GMW is known for custom paint jobs that larger guitar makers either can't or will not undertake. Prices are very reasonable by custom guitar standards. I would guess 50% of the cost of a Jackson or an ESP custom order. Tremendous bang for your money. You will not be disappointed. Check out gmwguitars.com for more information. If you're not Rockin', you're not Livin' - JMP

Bella Music Studios

(14 reviews)

My daughter has been taking piano lessons for a few months now with Vanessa, and she definitely has…read morelearned so much! Vanessa is very patient, talented, and so good with kids. The studio is always clean and quiet. Occasionally the parking spaces are full, so we end up parking on the opposite street, but usually we are able to find a spot in-front. Prices are very reasonable, and it is so easy to communicate with both Jody (studio owner) as well as Vanessa. The studio offers lessons for several instruments and voice lessons as well, but my daughter has only taken piano so far. My daughter loves her weekly lessons here and her teacher as well!

My daughter took voice lessons with Montana here for a few years. She really enjoyed her time there…read moreand Montana was super fun and nice. She always looked forward to her lesson each week.

Woodsound Studios

4.0

(22 reviews)

Normally I would rate this place like. 3-4 But some other lady was in charge today. She took…read moreforever to get all the cables and it counted to out time. But the reason I am going for one is that when me and my band were exiting some guy began insulting us like crazy and she was right there talking with him and agreed with him as he cussed us out and criticized our playing. I won't be returning and will be going to Musicians Performance Studio from now on.

Woodsound is absolutely top-tier. I've engineered my own projects here and have mixed and mastered…read morerecords in these rooms, and the results speak for themselves. The acoustics are dialed in, the rooms sound incredible, and everything translates exactly how you want it to. Every session feels professional, inspiring, and effortless because the space just works with you, not against you. You can tell Tim really cared about this place when he designed it and truly understands sound. If you're serious about recording, mixing, or mastering at a high level, Woodsound is the real deal. Easily the best studio in Covina and in the area.

GMP Guitars

(1 review)

Had a problem with my Fender J-Bass Rosewood fretboard. Went in to see Dan, and he did an amazing…read morejob with the repair while I waited! I'm so glad to find GMP Guitars. They build one of a kind guitars that are rare works of art. If you want a guitar that will gain in value over time, and one that your family and friends will admire at the incredible craftsmanship, go see Dan at GMP Guitars.

From the owner: GMP Guitars strives to produce the highest quality custom instruments on the market today! With the…read moreexperience and talents of our GMP Team combined you can expect the finest built custom guitars and basses possible to offer our customers. We take great pride in each and every guitar and bass that we make. From our incredible finishes.... to that sweet tone and playability that you will always find in a GMP! "GMP... Say it Proud... and Play it LOUD™!"

Singer Music

4.3

(32 reviews)

The employees were all so nice and helpful and were knowledgeable about the topics we asked about…read more They have a good selection of instruments and other music needs. Value is good since it's so close to home, and I don't have to drives miles n miles just to get guitar strings.

Don't have much time coming here or many interactions but did come here once to pick up an…read moreinstrument I rented and overall the vibe was good and the worker at the front was very helpful.

Mike's Guitar World

(15 reviews)

I was incredibly heartbroken when Mike suddenly passed a couple of months ago. This amazing man and…read moremusician with a heart of gold has left quite a legacy. I want folks to know that he leaves behind a son who is busy trying to expand the business his father worked diligently to build up. They've hired a couple of new talented folks to boot. Please consider them for lessons during this odd time of remote learning. I'll always be grateful for all the assistance I received during my time there that made me a better guitarist, vocalist and even began piano to broaden the scope of my music life.

Since my original review in 2016, Mike and his staff are still some of the best in the area, with…read morerespect to musical knowledge and teaching ability. Both of my children's musical abilities have grown on an almost exponential level. He truly cares about teaching and he has a great love of music. He has fostered and nourished their love of music and he has been instrumental (pun intended), in their continuing journey. Because of this, I am extremely confident that music will always be a positive part of their lives. Keep up the great work Mike!

Ste Claire Studios

(4 reviews)

Good teachers that teach good music. Thank you Ms. Susie. Friendly at home staff at it's finest.read more

I emrolled my daughter a few months ago and she is enjoying her piano class with Mr Elijah. He is…read morevery knowledgeable and patient with them. He makes sure that they understand the lesson. One more thing that is really nice is, when you go on a vacation they will coordinate and schedule a make up class hassle free! I definitely would recommend them to parents who want their kids to learn music

Morey's Music Store

(185 reviews)

As soon as I walked into the store, a staff member greeted me and offered help--even though he…read morelooked busy handling some paperwork. He asked what I needed, and I explained that my acoustic guitar had a broken peg tuner. I already had the replacement part with me, so I handed it over. Instead of jumping straight into recommendations or upselling, he immediately tried to fix it on the spot. Once he confirmed it was repairable, he quickly cut the string, replaced the tuner, and got everything back in place. The whole process took less than 10 minutes! I live in Carson, so driving out to Lakewood and getting it fixed the same day was such a relief. This guitar isn't for professional use--it's for my daughter who's just starting to learn--so having it ready right away saved me a lot of time and hassle. He even tuned it by ear in seconds, which was really impressive. Overall, a smooth and pleasant experience. I really appreciated the quick, no-nonsense service and would definitely come back again for future repairs!

Today was my first time here and it was amazing and had AC! They fixed up my violin string for a…read morevery cheap price! The staff was also super kind and polite! Will be coming back soon.

Jim's Musical Instrument Repair

4.9

(27 reviews)

Went there to fix my sons flute and (I didn't catch his name!) but he looked at it real quick, saw…read morethe problem, played a few notes just to make sure it's working properly, and gave it back to me and said no charge. He said a simple fix like this I can't charge for. First time receiving such kind and honest service at a business. I was taken back and insisted on paying but he refused. Thank you to the person that helped me! That was the kindest service I've ever received. definitely will be coming back.

when my husband found his dad's clarinet that hadn't been played since... 1970?! I thought, "this…read moreis a lost cause." but then I remembered Jim Mettler who used to repair our shop's instruments in Pasadena (decades ago). I googled him & lo and behold not only was he still around but he had his own shop! In San Dimas!! I sent pics of the moldy & crusty clarinet thinking I'd be told to take a hike, nope :) they were like, "no problem! bring it in!" they did a great job & the crew that works there is awesome, just awesome. I highly recommend! :D - a couple before & after pics:

D & J Piano Movers

(263 reviews)

I called D & J on a Sunday and left a message because they were closed. Not only did they call me…read moreback on Sunday , they were super helpful in finding a time for a pick up and delivery the next day. They were affordable, friendly and so communicative. I couldn't have asked for a better experience with a first time delivery like this. Both Jenny and Dan are super kind, patient and knowledgeable. Their team took great care in transporting a baby grand piano that is over 100 years old from over 30 miles away.

My nephews have recently been taking piano lessons and asked my mother if they could have our…read morepiano. My mom told them they had to ask their auntie if it would be okay, in which I did say yes and told my brother that he will have to find a moving company to help move it to his house if he wants it (had no idea that there were piano movers). My brother ended up finding D & J Piano Movers, who are right out of Azusa. My brother called them on a Wednesday night and they gave him a quote right away (it cost $200 to move the piano about 8- 10 miles away from my house). D & J Piano Movers was great because they did let us know that they would be able to pick up the piano this past Monday (it would have been earlier but my schedule didn't work to be where I would be at home during designated times). On Thursday, they let my brother know that they would come on Monday between 9- 11 am. They called on Monday morning to let us know that they be arriving in about 15 minutes. They parked on the curb by our house around 8:50 am and got ready to start moving the piano out of our living room. The process was smooth and easy. I also asked them to take a box to my brother's house that held all the sheet music and music books. Overall, it was a good and positive experience and appreciate that D & J Piano Movers was able to give us a time frame to when they would arrive. And also give us a call when they were going to be on their way. And I am glad that our family piano can go on to the next generation to be used and hopefully just as loved as I had in my childhood.

Aleks's Piano Movers

4.9

(431 reviews)

Had a great experience with tuning and cleaning services!…read more Pricing was very reasonable at $250 combined. Vladimir was very good with communication upfront, and really friendly and competent. Originally had planned for tuning only, but he showed us some unexpected clean up needs and got to work on both. He's also a good pianist, so we got a little show at the end when he showed us how well tuned our piano was!

A good friend generously gifted me her medium grand piano that she no longer had room for. I needed…read moreprofessional movers from Long Beach to Culver City to make sure I took good care of my friend's gift, and Aleks has provided exceptional service from the moment I reached out. Very responsive to messages, solid communication, and a very safe, prompt and careful move brought the piano to me in excellent condition. As the staff finished reassembling the piano, I heard music from the other room where I was working, and was delighted to see one of the staff playing the most skilled and beautiful music from the piano! It was then that I knew they had for sure moved the piano with care. They appreciate the beauty and art of it. Vladimir, the tech who played, came back a week later to provide a detailed cleaning, voicing and tuning. He taught me some aspects about how to care for the piano and clearly knew exactly what he was doing with the instrument. Very fairly priced and very high quality service. Couldn't recommend more!!

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

11 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

David S.

0

1

0

14 years ago

Hello. I have recently relocated from Sonoma County in NorCal. A few weeks ago, I brought an entry level Acoustic/Electric bass online, used. As usual, I like to have any guitars I purchase (from any source),checked out by a shop before I bring them home. After calling around, and stating that I would like a luthier/repairman check out the guitar I just purchased. Dave told me that there would be someone who could check out my guitar on the spot, and bring it in. When I arrived, Dave and Tom greeted me, and Tom offered to look at my guitar. After about 25 minutes of going over my bass and making a few adjustments, Tom declared my "new" bass ready to take home and play. What a pleasant surprise. Both Tom and Dave were more than kind, helpful, informative and hospitable. A couple of weeks later, I brought a semi-hollow body Washburn in to have gone over, re-strung, and I asked them what it might need to increase it's playability. Once again Tom removed the old strings, and spent 25 minutes or so, cleaning, adjusting, restringing and going over my Washburn. when I asked him how much I owed him, Tom stated that there would be a minimal charge, in addition to the price of the new strings. A young man behind the counter also helped me with a connector on my trusty Korg px-4 "headphone amp/ mini microprocessor ". I walked out of The Fret Shop with enough change from a twenty to buy a taco. BOTOM LINE : The Fret House, Tom, Dave, and the young man behind the counter could not have done anything more to satisfy me. It is so refreshing to know that good, honest people still exist in this world of "Clueless Customer Service:. I GLADLY RECOMMEND TOM, DAVE, AND THE STAFF AT THE FRET HOUSE TO HELP YA WITH ANY GUITAR RELATED NEEDS. i FEEL BLESSED TO HAVE "DISCOVERED" THIS OLD FASHIONED, EARTHY, AND FRIENDLY GUITAR SHOP, AND WILL CONTINUE SEEING THEM FOR ANY FUTURE GUITAR NEEDS. CALL ME IF YA HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. DAVE @ 707-494-4470. read more

Paul C.

0

3

1

19 years ago

I've been doing business with the Fret House since about 1975(?); and have always enjoyed being treated with respect by knowledgeable, friendly, and patient employees. They focus most of their attention on acoustic guitars- carrying many of the best upscale brands- but also always have a good selection of quality more budget minded guitars too; as well as a number of banjos, dulcimers, dobros, mandolins, etc. Lots of cool electric guitars and amps there too, though (some of the hard to find boutique amps, as well as Fender, Mesa Boogie, Roland, etc.). They're an authorized Fender dealer and repair facility as well. The owner John Seymour, sets up every guitar that he sells before it's put on the wall (even the cheap ones); guaranteeing that whatever you pull, it'll play right. They don't do that at Guitar Center or any of the other chain stores.. I've purchased almost every one of my 12 guitars there. The Fret House also has private lessons in all styles; with some phenomenal players as teachers. They also have rentals, band instruments, and carry lots of effects, and accessories. Downstairs, there's an intimate concert hall set up- where they have a "Hoot" on the first Saturday of every month; and a surprising number of national acts perform for an audience of maybe 50. Average ticket prices are $15! Killer! A newsletter can be subscribed to that will keep you informed as to who's coming to town. Without reservation, I give The Fret House 5 stars. They're everything a professional musician looks for, and everything a "band mom" needs at the same time. They even sell CDs by independent artists- supporting local musicians. Quit d^&kin' around with places that - well know.... really don't deserve your hard earned cash. These guys know what they're doing, and do it! read more

Chad V.

39

3

1

7 years ago

Terrible customer service except for Kevin and a young Asian gentleman. I just went to pick up my bass after a set up. When I walk in no one acknowledges me although there are no other customers. I try my bass and my initial perception was that the action had not been lowered. The tech with brown hair in a pony tail and glasses immediately responded "that's not true" in a defensive manner. He never spoke of the change in spec and went ton tell me how my neck was in bad shape and he lowered the saddles. I asked for a pair of scissors to cut the tag off of my case. Instead of providing these with me the older man with long white/grey hair asked that I rip off the tag and deal with the string at home. I paid and left. I won't return. I don't care if it's local or if Kevin and Henry are cool. read more

Al S.

0

1

0

14 years ago

I love The Fret House! Last year I got my L.P. re fretted there by a guy who really knew what he was doing and it never played better, not even when it was new. They have always given practical advice and I really appreciate not having to deal with a bunch of "hipper than thou" dudes that know more about Pro Tools than chord structure, not that I have anything against PT's. They are the real deal! When you are there you are in a real music store, not a big box sales center. They definitely speak "musician" at The Fret House. I just wish I could have taken the whole place to Georgia with me. Do you think they would consider opening a store out here? read more

Ronnie H.

27

4

0

12 years ago

Great staff great gear I first started going right 1993 I bought a Mesa boogie Mark III I still have that amp this place has the best of the best equipment what you're looking for they carry Mesa boogie amps and make curious finger guitars rest guitars and on acoustic their top the lines probably Marmer Taylor but these guys have really nice stuff they got a great staff they got great guitar teachers my son's going to go here and have guitar lessons read more

Matt Z.

386

7

3

12 years ago

I have been here several time lbs they have always been very helpful and kind I recently took my acoustic in the other week to get it setup and a pickup installed I was nervous because my acoustic was worth well over 1500 but they did an amazing job it plays great and the pickup sounds great I even had my guitar finished before the date Ty told me although I haven't bought a guitar from them their quality in repairs and service is great read more

Steve A.

44

64

0

13 years ago

I have heard some horror stories from others I know, but my experience has been average. I do like that their prices are fairly reasonable and a solid inventory of guitar music and methods. I've never had to really talk to anyone in the store, so I can't comment on how knowledgeable they are. read more

Scott D.

385

4

2 years ago

I have an original #1 Boogie Bodie made by Lynn Ellsworth solid one piece Birdseye maple looking to sell i heard Lynn use to sell his bodies from Puyallup wa. To the original owner a museum piece for sure . read more

Tim F.

0

8

73

15 years ago

I love this place. Good people. Very cool venue if you want to see some new and used talent... and a great opportunity to test out new songs. Highly recommend... just have a beer first. read more

Dick L.

0

15

3

6 years ago

They have always been real helpful. I have been going here for years and will continue to go here.

Tim M.

5

34

14 years ago

amazing hometown staff that knows their stuff! check them out!

The Fret House - musicalinstrumentsandteachers - Updated August 2026

People who viewed The Fret House also viewed

Mike's Guitar World

(15 reviews)

I was incredibly heartbroken when Mike suddenly passed a couple of months ago. This amazing man and…read moremusician with a heart of gold has left quite a legacy. I want folks to know that he leaves behind a son who is busy trying to expand the business his father worked diligently to build up. They've hired a couple of new talented folks to boot. Please consider them for lessons during this odd time of remote learning. I'll always be grateful for all the assistance I received during my time there that made me a better guitarist, vocalist and even began piano to broaden the scope of my music life.

Since my original review in 2016, Mike and his staff are still some of the best in the area, with…read morerespect to musical knowledge and teaching ability. Both of my children's musical abilities have grown on an almost exponential level. He truly cares about teaching and he has a great love of music. He has fostered and nourished their love of music and he has been instrumental (pun intended), in their continuing journey. Because of this, I am extremely confident that music will always be a positive part of their lives. Keep up the great work Mike!

Black Oak Guitars

4.2

(5 reviews)

I bought a guitar from Sweetwater and I took it to have him take a look at it to make sure…read moreeverything was correct and intact. He gave a good inspection told me everything was fine. I learned he's been 20 years. Very knowledgeable good guy. I'd recommend him to everybody.

I've called this guy at least 4-5 times over the past year and every time I call him, he tells me…read morehe's booked up for the next 3 or 4 months. I guess he doesn't need the work. Not very friendly over the phone either.

Jim's Musical Instrument Repair

4.9

(27 reviews)

Went there to fix my sons flute and (I didn't catch his name!) but he looked at it real quick, saw…read morethe problem, played a few notes just to make sure it's working properly, and gave it back to me and said no charge. He said a simple fix like this I can't charge for. First time receiving such kind and honest service at a business. I was taken back and insisted on paying but he refused. Thank you to the person that helped me! That was the kindest service I've ever received. definitely will be coming back.

when my husband found his dad's clarinet that hadn't been played since... 1970?! I thought, "this…read moreis a lost cause." but then I remembered Jim Mettler who used to repair our shop's instruments in Pasadena (decades ago). I googled him & lo and behold not only was he still around but he had his own shop! In San Dimas!! I sent pics of the moldy & crusty clarinet thinking I'd be told to take a hike, nope :) they were like, "no problem! bring it in!" they did a great job & the crew that works there is awesome, just awesome. I highly recommend! :D - a couple before & after pics:

Bella Music Studios

(14 reviews)

My daughter has been taking piano lessons for a few months now with Vanessa, and she definitely has…read morelearned so much! Vanessa is very patient, talented, and so good with kids. The studio is always clean and quiet. Occasionally the parking spaces are full, so we end up parking on the opposite street, but usually we are able to find a spot in-front. Prices are very reasonable, and it is so easy to communicate with both Jody (studio owner) as well as Vanessa. The studio offers lessons for several instruments and voice lessons as well, but my daughter has only taken piano so far. My daughter loves her weekly lessons here and her teacher as well!

My daughter took voice lessons with Montana here for a few years. She really enjoyed her time there…read moreand Montana was super fun and nice. She always looked forward to her lesson each week.

Stringed Instrument Services

(37 reviews)

This is a Fender authorized service center. I found them on the Fender website…read more SIS replaced an intermittent pickup switch on my Fender Duo Sonic. My guitar is now better than before. These guys are friendly and professional! Cool workshop, good vibes all around. I would definitely recommend!

I recently bought a Fender precision bass and wanted to get pick-up and bridge covers installed…read more In order to keep the warranty, I had to get them installed at an authorized Fender servicer. There aren't too many of them in my area, and the one closer to me was charging way too much. This place is a bit out of my way but the price I was quoted was much better than the other place, so I decided to check it out. I made the appointment with Jerry, who seems to be the main person here. Since I live far away, he was able to accommodate me by getting it done in less than an hour. It was a fairly simple job of just drilling some holes on the bass and installing the covers, but I appreciated his willingness to work with my schedule. The work was clean and didn't see any dings or scratches on my new bass. I've been to some places in the past where I found all kinds of scratches afterward. If I'm in the area again, I am going to bring some of my other guitars and basses for a basic set-up. Please note that this place is by appointment only, and you can't wait inside the shop while they work. The door is kept locked (for a good reason). You need to knock on the door to enter.

Rockstars of Tomorrow

(10 reviews)

I'm so so happy I found this place! I am taking voice and guitar here with Kevin and so far have…read morejust been focusing on voice. I have had many voice lessons in the past, and I can tell Kevin really a) knows what he's talking about b) gets the most possible done with me in the lesson minutes (timely and efficient) c) is very fun and upbeat d) such an amazing musician e) highly qualified, having majored in music pedagogy in university, and traveled the world performing f) communicates clearly and effectively! I chose a random song, "Peaches" from Super Mario Bros and he knew it, and was able to play it in the correct key on the keyboard for me to sing to. I had so much fun and I surprised myself when following his modeling. He used his voice so skillfully and brings the passion through the dynamics. Such a good price for how much I'm getting out of it! I know voice lessons in general aren't cheap. I hope he gets nicely compensated, because he deserves it.

My time spent in this studio was epic. Each person was truly a thrill to play with, I wouldn't…read morechange a thing. Thanks Guys

Soto Shop Customs

(7 reviews)

Ector was friendly and invited me to his shop where I saw his workspace. I could tell he knew…read moreguitars by the guitars he made and had on his rack, I played a few of them and they were great. He set up my Strat which was about 45 years old. He improved the action and overall feel. He had it back quick. I would definitely recommend Ector and plan to bring my Taylor acoustic to see what he'd charge to fix a crack in the body.

Ector is thee guitar guy too!!! Been to him about 3 times now all for different projects! One for…read moremy Amp, mandolin, and acoustic electric guitar and without a doubt he was able to fix everything! Great prices and has always given me a discount! Super honest guy and local as well!!! Check him out you won't regret it :)

DongXing Musical Instruments

(3 reviews)

Great company to deal with. Excellent quality at great prices. Highly recommend them!read more

Very professional Mr. Liu! And the people are very kind and have many years of repair experience!…read more This is not the first time I have come to buy. It is highly recommended!

Rev It Up Rehearsal Studios

(12 reviews)

Well this a clean studio with decent PA. However the guy that was working there became a bit upset…read moreas we finished at 11pm which is when we started breaking down our equipment . Which took about 30 mins. There were no other bands following us. I guess he wanted us completely out by 11pm? Either way not sure this studio is used to bands and musicians. When you have 2 guitars, vocals, bass and large drums and you're the last band you shouldn't make plans to be leaving at 11pm.

My band Innominate has been rehearsing here for about 5 years. We're here once a week and all I can…read moresay is that Jerry, Dave and the rest of the rev it up crew do the most for their clients! Awesome place for: band practice, dance rehearsals, self rehearsals, etc. good pricing and good equipment.

AyanisTek