Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Musical Instruments in Rochester
Bernunzio Uptown Music has been a cornerstone of Rochester's music community since 1974, offering an unparalleled selection of vintage and modern fretted instruments. Our expertise spans guitars, banjos, mandolins, and ukuleles, with decades of combined experience guiding both novice and professional musicians. We pride ourselves on meticulous instrument restoration, personalized service, and fostering a vibrant musical culture through community events.Our team of certified technicians ensures every instrument meets exacting standards, while our global shipping network delivers instruments safely worldwide. With a reputation built on integrity and passion for music, we remain committed to connecting musicians with their ideal instruments.
Services
Guitar Sales
Banjo Sales
Mandolin Sales
Ukulele Sales
Instrument Appraisals
Music Lessons
Instrument Repairs
Vintage Instrument Restoration
Global Shipping
Music Events
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of specialized expertise in fretted instruments
- Our certified technicians provide expert instrument restoration services
- We guarantee secure worldwide shipping for all instruments
- Our inventory includes rare vintage instruments unavailable elsewhere
- We host free community music events and jam sessions monthly
What people say
Excellent service
Perfectly packed
Knowledgeable staff
Rare instruments
Worldwide shipping
Services
Vintage Instrument Sales
Specializing in rare vintage guitars, banjos, and mandolins from the early 20th century. Each instrument undergoes detailed authentication and professional evaluation. Our collection features iconic brands like Gibson, Martin, and Fender in original, preserved condition.
Modern Instrument Sales
Offering premium new guitars, banjos, and ukuleles from top manufacturers including Eastman, Gold Tone, and Fender. Every instrument receives professional setup before shipping. We maintain relationships with builders for custom order assistance.
Instrument Appraisals
Expert valuation services for vintage and modern instruments conducted by experienced appraisers. We provide detailed documentation for insurance, estate planning, or sale preparation. Our team stays current with market trends and auction data.
Music Lessons
Personalized lessons for guitar, banjo, mandolin, and ukulele taught by professional musicians. Our instructors accommodate all skill levels from beginner to advanced players. Lessons focus on technique, repertoire development, and musical theory application.
Instrument Repairs
Full-service repair shop with certified technicians specializing in fretted instruments. Services include neck adjustments, crack repairs, electronics installation, and complete restorations. We maintain vintage instrument integrity while improving playability.
People
John Bernunzio
Owner
John Bernunzio founded the store in 1974, building a reputation as an expert in vintage instruments. He personally evaluates rare instruments and maintains relationships with collectors worldwide. His deep knowledge of instrument history and market trends guides the store's acquisitions.
Julie Bernunzio
Sales Manager
Julie manages customer relations and online sales operations. She coordinates global shipments and ensures packaging meets strict safety standards. Her expertise in customer service has earned multiple testimonials for exceptional transaction experiences.
Robbie
Luthier
Robbie leads the repair department with specialized skills in instrument restoration. He performs precise neck resets and structural repairs while maintaining original instrument characteristics. His technical expertise ensures optimal playability for both vintage and modern instruments.
Michelle
Sales Associate
Michelle assists customers with instrument selection and provides detailed product information. She demonstrates instruments for remote buyers and ensures accurate descriptions. Her musical background helps match players with appropriate instruments.
Sam
Appraiser
Sam conducts professional instrument evaluations using market analysis and historical data. He prepares documentation for insurance and estate purposes. His expertise covers both common and rare fretted instruments across multiple decades.
Questions
What types of instruments do you specialize in?
We specialize in fretted instruments including vintage and modern guitars, banjos, mandolins, and ukuleles. Our inventory features rare collectibles and premium new instruments from top manufacturers.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, we provide secure worldwide shipping with specialized packaging to ensure instrument safety. Our shipping department has extensive experience handling international deliveries.
Can I purchase instruments sight-unseen?
Many customers buy instruments remotely using our detailed descriptions and photos. We provide additional videos and measurements upon request to ensure informed purchasing decisions.
Do you host live music events?
We host monthly jam sessions for bluegrass, old-time, and ukulele players. These free community events feature experienced leaders and welcome all skill levels in a supportive environment.
What repair services do you offer?
Our repair shop handles setups, crack repairs, electronics installation, and complete restorations. Certified technicians maintain vintage instrument integrity while improving playability and structural stability.
How do you authenticate vintage instruments?
Our experts verify authenticity through construction analysis, historical research, and market comparison. We provide documentation detailing instrument history and provenance when available.
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