Pimentel Guitars

We found this guitar shop online, as a "fun things to do in Albuquerque" listing... it was a totally unexpected delight! Rick was so accommodating with his time, showing us around the shop and speaking with a passion that is embodied in every instrument in the place. You don't have to be a guitarist or musician to enjoy and appreciate the Pimentel story... it's craftsmanship at its peak! Breathtaking!!

The Pimentels make, by hand, some the best guitars you will have ever played. The family owned store promotes many cultural events (often in conjunction with National Hispanic Cultural Center - a great venue) showcasing classical music. In addition, the shop also teaches guitar at all levels. The personal attention at Pimentel & Sons is something sadly missing today's world. You won't find this kind of awareness and helpfulness at the big box guitar stores.

I've been taking classical guitar lessons from Gustavo Pimentel at the shop for about six months. In that time I've gone from being a fumble fingered novice to a not too shabby beginner. Gustavo is knowledgeable and patient, and he is able to give me exactly the balance of indulgence and discipline that I need to keep progressing. In the process I have had the opportuntity to get to know the Pimentel brothers who have been making guitars in New Mexico for many years. They are never too busy to stop and show me that latest inlay, or rosette, or the many individual guitars they craft entirely by hand. I am now the proud owner of a Pimentel concert classical guitar, and it is a thing of beauty. I've played many other guitars, but this one stands above them all. I've been in the shop many afternoons when folks who are unsure exactly of what they want come in, and Rick takes his time to make them feel welcome, shows them around the work shop, shows them the incredible attention to detail that goes into each guitar - and by the time they are done looking around, maybe they still don't know if they want to buy something, but they know about the process and they understand what goes into creating these wonderful instruments. If you are thinking about lessons, or are in the market for a guitar that is handmade especially for you and nobody else, then you owe it to yourself to drop in and let the Pimentel guitar makers give you a look at what they do.

They did excellent work on the fretboard, neck, and bridge of my octave mandolin, all at a fair price. They listened to my concerns. The instrument sounds great now.

My husband and I dropped by on a whim on the way out of town. We weren't sure what to expect on the outside, but we were definitely not expecting the personal tour we got (FOR FREE) through the entire store. We learned so much about how they make their guitars from turquoise inlays to bending the frames. I never expected such a friendly experience, especially without calling ahead. we got there right as they opened though, which might have helped. We even were invited to play on some of the guitars on hand. I cannot recommend this place enough if you're interested in guitars at all!

Great family-part of the history of New Mexico. Honest hardworking master craftsmen. I highly recommend their work, our family has several Pimentel guitars and they are truly works of art.

Unhelpful, bad businessmen. Continually disrespectful throughout transaction processes and as well into the rest of the interactions with them. Horrible customer service and never even attempted to make amends or extend and extra hand for resolution.

The Best guitars period. Truly works of art, and the whole family is very friendly and helpful. can't say enough good things about pimentel guitars!!!