Some of the guitars you’ll find at Guitar Riot. Credit: Courtesy of Guitar Riot.
Founded more than a decade ago, the local guitar shop Guitar Riot is an exclusive independent regional dealer for Gibson, Fender, and Martin guitars. The company offers repair services, custom work, and a “carefully curated” consignment program.

After a decade in the Artcraft Building, the store has relocated to a custom-designed space at 4517 Lorain Ave. It’ll hold a grand reopening celebration beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1.

The event will feature live music performances, exclusive discounts, gear raffles and opportunities to win Gibson and Fender guitars. The new facility offers on-site guitar repairs by luthier Jay Pawar and amplifier repair services by Joe Golden.

“Our mission has always been to create a welcoming environment for musicians of all levels,” says owner Brent Ferguson in a press release. “We are excited to offer the largest inventory of its kind between Chicago and New York. We can’t wait to see familiar faces and welcome new ones!”

“Guitar Riot was the first tenant of our new Highland’s Project, and the development pivoted on their reputation and contacts,” adds property owner Dave Ferrante. “After all the turbulence that surrounded the closing of the Artcraft Building, we wanted to make sure they hit the ground running. The location is tailored completely to their needs, and, in addition to a completely refurbished showroom, it also includes separate acoustic and electric guitar showcase rooms and three private demo rooms.”

Ferrante notes that local guitar hero and instructor Michael Bay has moved his Guitar Conservatory to the building.

“We now have an entire first-floor building dedicated to selling guitars, repairing guitars, building guitars, and teaching guitar,” he says. “And when customers need a break, they can sign up for wellness lessons at the location’s newest tenant, Free Hearts Fitness and Wellness Center.”

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Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.