For more than four decades, Pittsburgh Guitars has been a fixture on the city’s historic South Side.
Known for its deep selection of new, used, and vintage stringed instruments, the shop combines old-school charm with expertise, making it a favorite for players at every level.
A Brief History
The store first opened in 1979, founded by musician and Beatles devotee Carl Grefenstette, who originally collected and sold instruments to the Broadway production Beatlemania!
Over the years, the shop became a hub for both local players and touring acts, counting members of Nirvana, The Kinks, Cheap Trick, and Social Distortion among its customers.
In 2011, longtime employee John Bechtold took over the business, continuing the legacy while keeping the shop rooted in its neighborhood.
In 2024, Pittsburgh Guitars proudly marked its 45th anniversary, celebrating its long history as one of the city’s most trusted music retailers.
What You’ll Find
Instruments: A broad range of electric, acoustic, and bass guitars, plus banjos, mandolins, and ukuleles.
Vintage gear: The shop is well known for its vintage and pre-owned instruments.
Authorized dealer: Brands include Martin, Rickenbacker, Gretsch, Yamaha, and more.
Repairs: Full-time on-site repair services for guitars, basses, and ukuleles, with amp repairs also available.
Lessons: Private lessons are offered on guitar, bass, and ukulele.
Shopping options: Instruments are available both in-store and through the shop’s website.
Visiting Info
- Address: 1305 E Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
- Location: Right on the main strip of the South Side, surrounded by restaurants and bars.
- Parking: Metered street parking and nearby public lots.
- Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Fri–Sat: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Closed Sundays (holiday hours may vary)
Why Musicians Go There
Pittsburgh Guitars has earned its reputation through expert service, fair trade-ins, and a carefully curated inventory.
The staff is frequently praised for their knowledge and personal approach, helping customers find exactly what they need, whether that’s a first guitar or a rare vintage treasure.
