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We got to know Gresham Guitar through the store's singular owner, Shine Beck. From the start, it was obvious that Shine wanted to provide a space where music lovers could take their time and enjoy the process of picking out their 'perfect' musical match.
With a life steeped in creating and listening to music, Shine offers a unique understanding of what musicians need and want.
A no-pressure approach, paired with patience and space to test the waters with a new instrument allows those looking for a special instrument plenty of time to peruse, test, and vet their new purchase.
If you're in the Pacific Northwest, be sure to check out this incredible space for those making music, those that love music, and aficionados of unique instruments. Gresham Guitar Shop is well worth the trip!
Cleo the cat keeps the instruments safe. All photos by Gresham Guitar.
8 years
Knowledge of the product, support, and personalized service.
Local music festivals and donations to local school music auctions.
My parents were musical, and I have been around or involved in music my entire life. It was natural, yet unplanned to eventually end up owning a music store. I used to hang out in music stores just because the vibe was so good. I try to create a great vibe in my store.
My favorite was helping a mother and her daughter at the counter while working for a local music store in my area.
As is common, the parent wanted her daughter to start on an acoustic guitar, but she wanted to play an electric. When asked by the mother for my confirmation that an acoustic was the right way to start playing, I politely said, “I started with an electric and have been playing for over 40 years”. Needless to say, I got a less than appreciative look from mom. Seeing that they were going to leave, I asked if I could show them something. I took them over to an amp that had a guitar already plugged in and I looked right at the young lady and said, “I know what you want to do….this!” I hit an “A” power chord with lots of distortion.
She actually got misty eyed and nodded her head. Someone listened to her. Made my year!
Unfortunately, I do not have time to teach. When I had more time available to teach, it was to players with 10-20 years of experience. My focus was on how to color their solos and tell a story. Soloing is about beginnings and endings, highs and lows, notes…..and the spaces between the notes.
Shine Beck, Owner of Gresham Guitar
Ohana Ukuleles provide the best selection in the price range that my demographic most commonly purchases. They display well, have an outstanding tone-to-value ratio, and they are consistent.
I like supporting a brand that is owned and operated by a company with a family feel. Each time I call it is like talking with an old friend. The owner is available and personable. All their staff is chosen with care, and it shows.
It begins with the consistent and personal service I receive from the entire staff at Ohana. They are always friendly, knowledgeable about their product, and they have a deep enough line to have alternatives available, even when a particular model is not in stock. The job they do packing their instruments for shipping is unmatched in the industry.
The TK-70W*. It has a unique midrange frequency balance that is quite nice.
Editor's Note:
*while the TK-70W is now retired, its sister uke, the TK-70R, also offers a nice balance.