My friend recommended this shop to me for in depth lessons on classical guitar and music theory. What I found was a community staple with a rich history that welcomed me in like family. Lessons with Kenneth are very fulfilling, adapting to your needs and learning style. Tomas Sr and Jr are warm and friendly, and have inspirational dedication to their craft, customers, students, and community. Their guitars are worth the investment, and their repair service is excellent. Very grateful to have found this place. read more

Great luthier. Was going to purchase a high end classical guitar when salesman suggested I check out Candelas Guitars. Purchased a handmade classical guitar that sounds and plays great. read more

If your into guitars and especially Latin Music instruments this might be the coolest place in the country. 4 generations of Luthiers have resulted in amazing instruments. The nicest and most hospitable store I've ever visited. If you're a guitar connoisseur, this is a must!! read more

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Growing up in East Los Angeles in the 60s and 70s, I had musician friends who always spoke with admiration about the family owned business Candelas guitars. Once I retired I decided to take guitar lessons at Candelas, and continue to admire the great teaching from Kennith Del Rio, and Tomas Delgado. This is the best place not only for guitar lesson's but also a place where everyone who works there makes you feel like family, Guitars are made there which become works of musical art. I encourage anyone interested in guitars, to visit and enjoy a true musical experience. read more

Candelas, it was great. Very nice people who provided history of the candelas shop. It's a family owned business. The guitars a known to best in the world. I will be going back. I highly recommend this place to visit. read more

I've been coming here for a year now and it's great I learned so much Im coming here today right now

Best instrument repair shop around town with a long history. They replaced my bass strings perfectly. I 100% recommend.

I love this place. I brought an electric guitar in for repair and left with my first acoustic guitar. They also teach here and I'm taking lesson. The shop is full of rich guitar history its family run and has been one of the cornerstones of Boyle Heights. They have provided many celebrities and classical guitarists their instruments. I totally recommend anyone to come in and enjoy the history and pick up an instrument it's been life changing. Everyone is friendly and encouraging. Shout out to my teacher Kenneth!!! read more

Loretta, thank you so much for helping me today! Folks, if you need help with your instrument from good, knowledgable, and kind peeps. . .come here. I had one of those small annoying issues that requires clear thinking and patience to figure out. Loretta steadily and systematically took the time to determine exactly what was wrong and saved me from continued bafflement and misery. "Is it the pick-up? Is it the cable? Is it the battery? Is it the amp?" --one of those kind of scenarios. I couldn't believe the woman's patience! In the end, the store made a BIG sale with me: $4.33 for a replacement battery. Loretta from heaven thank you and bless you!! read more

If you're looking to have someone build you an instrument, go elsewhere. In 2016 I gave Thomas a list of specific dimensions and traits for a tenor ukulele, along with $1k cash to get it started. I was told it'd be nine months, not over a year. Well, a year went by. Then a few more months. Then it was 2018. I went to get my ukulele. It was awful! He made the neck 2mm wider at the nut, had a wooden bridge saddle and nut (I'd requested bone for both), a ninth fret marker (ukuleles have a tenth fret marker), had those fake impression peg tuners that I had said NOT to use, and to top off the depth of incomprehension, was strung low to high D G B E with the standard tenor ukulele strings I had left that were clearly labeled. And the action AND the intonation sucked. It's like he couldn't read or even knew what the heck a tenor ukulele was! I wasn't in the mood to wait another two years for another build (which was, in all fairness, offered when I expressed my profound dissatisfaction). So the instrument had the tuners changed, nut and bridge replaced, and restrung. But it still played poorly. I wound up accepting it in the hopes that some aging would help it play better as has been the case with some fine string instruments. While the wood did eventually dry and open up a bit, it is still not a very well made instrument. The neck isn't even in the center of the body. The action is crude and unfriendly, and it is not particularly well intonated near the body making it rather useless for my purposes. I have since spoken to other guitarists who were also very dissatisfied with their instruments built at this shop. Under the previous generation it seems that some very nice instruments were produced, but apparently that is no longer the case. So if you are a serious musician looking for a competent luthier in Los Angeles, I would direct you instead to German Vasquez Rubio. I played some of his instruments and they were quite nice. I waited five years to write this review so I could see how the instrument settled in over time. Other than the expected opening up of the drier wood, the instrument still just feels rather crude and clunky, with poor action and intonation. Due to the thickness of the bridge itself it is not possible to shave the saddle down any further. In fact, every piece of wood on the whole thing is too thick. Top, sides, back, neck, all of it is quite crude and clumsy, and has the feel of a poorly made student level instrument, not the precise and well balanced feel of a professional instrument. Avoid this shop at all costs, they seem to be incapable of the delicate work that is necessary to create a fine professional quality instrument. And the secretary is a moron. When I called and asked if Thomas was there so I could pick up my revised instrument I was told yes. When I arrived I was informed that he had left at lunchtime. It was 5pm. So even with the little things, it's terrible service and terrible work at Candelas. Avoid at all costs. There's nothing good here. read more

Great historical landmark in the heart of Boyle Heights!!! Tomas Delgado and his family welcome all levels of inspired guitar students willing to learn. I encourage young students to visit and learn the history behind the art of Candelas amazing instruments, they'll leave inspired, enlightened and energized!!! read more

Awesome place to visit and buy if you are serious about string instruments. A true gem find in East LA! This place makes guitars, violins, harps, and ukuleles. Many are one of a kind. The sounds that come out of these masterpieces are stunning. Usually they project out, like an opera singer in the highest pitch and volume. Amazing California music maker, going on second generation and getting the third ready. I love it! Thanks for being around. read more

I've always wanted to learn and play guitar... I first picked-up a guitar when I was 20 years old (year 2000) and at that age lessons seemed impossible because I didn't have a steady income and Youtube had not started. Sure enough after 6-7 months due to school and work I put it in storage never to see it again. Up until last year (May 2018) I came across my old acoustic and decided that now at 37 years old I should finally accomplish this goal. I did some research and went with another instructor that I did not seem to connect with nor did the lessons seem to be what I was looking for and I seemed kind of lost. I came across Candelas Guitars and met Loretta, Kenneth and Tomas; I liked the way I was welcomed and I sensed the connection that I was looking for. I started my lessons with Kenneth in August 2018 and I am learning the way that I always wanted to. Almost a year later I am still here and the more I listen to classical guitar and the genres that play this instrument the more I love it with a passion. If you seem lost and don't know where to start I highly recommend you start here. You are never too old to pick-up an instrument. You owe it to yourself to accomplish this long-term goal read more

Candelas Guitars - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Boyle Heights, California

When a person enters Tomas' guitar shop, they will first be overwhelmed by the amazing number of instruments of great diversity. Tomas himself is a person of incredible grace, eloquence, and internal poise. His knowledge and expertise goes beyond any top-end schooling because his experience is what rules. Guitar making runs in his family for decades. His craftsmanship is hard to compare with any other guitar maker due to his personal jacket of undying passion for building a better guitar. If you're there to find out the value of an instrument you own or need repaired, Tomas will greet your inquiry with a rich sense of equanimity and professional integrity. If you have a sense of how much your guitar is worth, he will intercept your ambitions with a quiet clarity and a keen understanding of the marketplace. He will transform your world of fantasy into a reality due to his absolute respect for the idea of honesty. Therefore, I would highly recommend Tomas for his incomparable craftmanship should you need a guitar made or repaired, and his ubiquitous understanding of the marketplace if you need to appraise an instrument you own. read more

Taking guitar lessons at Candelas has been a great investment. Kenneth Del Rio is a great instructor and is very patient. He walks you through the material and made sure I learned to read music. There are no shortcuts only results! If anythig else, stop by the shop and check out the awesome handmade guitars! read more

This is a review for the private guitar lessons Candelas offers, led by their teacher Kenneth (though having looked at Candelas' great selection of wonderfully and traditionally hand-crafted guitars, I hope to write a review for a guitar in the near future!) What a positive experience this past year has been with Kenneth and Candelas. I came in with that common statement: "I've always wanted to play guitar, so I thought I'd finally try it out!" Kenneth asked me what kind of music I was interested in learning and playing with guitar, and wanted to make sure I understood these lessons were going to be focused on the classical style of playing. I knew this coming in, so you should know this as well if you're coming in expecting otherwise. However, Kenneth did explain to me how learning classical guitar can provide a fantastic, unique foundation when trying to eventually learn other styles of playing. My experience may differ from other students, since I'm sure Kenneth's approach to introducing classical playing differs depending on various things about a particular incoming student. For beginners though, he always stresses one thing. You will learn to read music first! I found this to be awesome and very beneficial, but just consider this in case you already know that this approach isn't what you're looking for, though I'm sure particularly with classical style playing, learning to read is integral anyways. From beginning and onwards (I had weekly classes), I found myself actually beginning to read music the first lesson, getting to learn arpeggios around my 4th lesson, and being introduced to my first small solo piece 2 lessons after that! The instruction provided was easy to grasp, very clearly explained and broken down, and proper habits were heavily, heavily emphasized and often reiterated. If there's one thing I can definitely share of Kenneth's approach to teaching, it's this: you come in these lessons not to show what you think you can play well enough (though of course if you can, then even more awesome!), but rather you come into every lesson to show the habits you've been constantly ingraining in your practice. Showing how your habits, no matter how small, are coming along, over whether or not you absolutely nailed that technique or memorized that piece from last class. Everything else would be too much to go over but finally, the vibe of these classes, at least in my experience, has been very relaxed. Emphasis and stress on habits and practice, but overall relaxed in instruction and comfort in the learning environment provided by Candelas. I love the intimate little space, it's just so inviting and warm. These lessons are done at your pace, while Kenneth patiently listens and then relays feedback accordingly (he has great music analogies). He's also very understanding and attentive, so if any personal situation arises that interferes with the schedule, he'll try to still make something work. If you want to have a conversation about a certain topic, or email him about some trouble on a certain passage of a piece, he'll provide good feedback your way. Just check out one lesson if you're on the fence, see him in person to get that same vibe I'm talking about, and hopefully you get to cementing a great hobby down, or honing your skills at the level you're already at, I definitely recommend giving these private lessons a shot! read more

I have taken guitar lessons from others before Candelas but never have I learned how to really play the guitar with technique like I've learned with Candela's teacher Kenneth. My boyfriend Mike and I have a great time taking lessons from Kenneth because his methods are fun and easy to understand. Plus the space at Candela's Guitar feels inspiring to learn and become great musicians! Thank you Kenneth and Candela's Guitar shop! I would recommend this place to all my friends and family...to anyone :) read more

Candelas Guitars - My boyfriend Mike and I leaving our guitar class from Candelas Guitars - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Boyle Heights, California

The guitar instructor Kenneth is very helpful and friendly, and he is also knowledgeable about a variety of guitar techniques. His teaching style can fit the need for adult/recreational learners. read more

This guy assessed and restrung my kids guitar for super cheap! My husband says he will definitely be returning for any future items my kids may need in his instrument career so that's cool. We have a guitar guy now! read more

Candelas Guitars is a beautiful gem in Los Angeles, they've been around since 1928 with 3 generations of Luthiers - I walked in and I was greeted by the owner Thomas, I bought some strings that I needed for one of my classical guitars, guys they have there own Candelas strings for sale , this place is my new home for my guitar needs, I'm definitely going to be purchasing a handmade custom guitar in the near future - stay inspired and spread good vibes... read more

I have been taking lessons from Kenneth for about 6 months. He is awesome! He is a talented musician and fantastic teacher. Kenneth tailors your lessons to your goals. I chose to study classical guitar and I've made a lot of progress thanks to Kenneth. He is also great at helping identify issues that need work and figuring out solutions so that learning is fun and not frustrating. read more

So. I'd been wanting to study guitar ever since I was about 8 years old. Now, 40 years later, I finally did. I began studying with Kenneth Del Rio at Candelas Guitars, and it's been awesome. I like that he's been great at listening to what I need for learning, and how he helps with the right amount of teaching and guiding. It's a very comfortable environment that encourages growth at one's own pace. The simplest solutions to playing are huge gains in my studies. I love that we've been able to go through basic technique, chords, and more advanced music reading and such. Love Candelas, and Kenneth is amazing. Highly recommend. But don't take my time slot! read more

These hand made guitars play like a dream. The sound from my Candelas classical guitar is amazing. Buying a Candelas guitar is an investment.. 22 years later, not only does it sound great, it looks great and plays effortlessly. read more

It had been a life-long dream to play classical guitar. I picked up my first instrument when I was a teen then like most teenagers I lost interest over time. Then around my 40'something birthday I picked it up again. I chalked up a few lessons from a local teacher but it didn't last. I was uninspired. Until, my dad surprised me with a 1950's refurbished classical guitar that Tomas Delgado (at Candelas Guitars) himself brought back to life and so it began. With an "it's never too late" kinda outlook I started lessons with Kenneth Del Rio in April 2016 and my love for classical guitar was re-born! Kenneth is an excellent instructor, his teaching technique is clear (step by step process), direct and his passion is inspiring. He teaches with expert ease and an open heart with a love for teaching. Whatever your age or musical level, you won't find a more finer guitar maestro in Southern California. Plus, the historic familial vibe of the shop will keep you coming back - like you're part of the Candelas familia! read more

Candelas Guitars - Me and the best classical guitar maestro in Southern California Kenneth Del Rio at Candelas Guitars. Highly recommend! - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Boyle Heights, California

I am very offended by the receptionist 'Loretta', I spoke to her earlier today regarding instrument maintenance and 100 times she repeated "these dumb Mexicans" and gave me a lecture of how Candela's and his brother had a falling out and split business. I hope the owner reads this message, teaches her to work more - talk less, and to help customers without being negative. Her racist comments are a total reflection on the business read more

I am a relative beginner on the guitar and have been trying to expand my abilities - took on a teacher and have been working with a friend to enlist others to play with us. All the while, though, I admit that I never felt that I would be able to deliver to the standards that these true musicians could on the instruments they've all played for years. Then, my friend, brought home a Vihuela from Candelas. It has the most amazing sound. And, frankly, no matter what I play (fat-fingered chords and all) IT SOUNDS AMAZING! It offers an incredibly harmonic resonance that is ringing rich and beautiful. I immediately began to play more and better. We performed more and I found that I was re-infused with the will to continue to advance my ability to play. So we went back. And walked out with a Candelas guitar. I had been playing my frist year+ on a steal-string yamaha that we had been given by a friend. It was tough to play. It killed my fingers. And I had to develop a death-grip to get the thing to sound right. I suffered through learning on it and I'd like to think the Candelas guitar is my reward for doing so. Like the Vihuela, the guitar has a rich, vibrant sound. And, like the Vihuela, the quality of the instrument deftly masks the errors in my playing so incredibly well that I have been able to take my playing to the next level. I once heard a friend tell me that it doesn't matter if you always hit the notes, it matters that you play with confidence. This was untrue on my steal-string. It is absolutely true on my Candelas. My Candelas guitar (and Vihuela) have made me a more confident player, which has allowed me to stretch myself to a new higher potential in my abilities. Overnight I have massively improved my performance. Very friendly staff. Very helpful and very enjoyable to be in the shop which has an extremely warm feel to it. We actually hung out and played a bit there before departing with the goods and had a right good time. Whether you a professional seeking the very highest caliber instrument, or a relative beginner looking to take that next step - you owe it to yourself to seek the qualities that I believe are inherent in the Candelas guitars that I have been fortunate to play and that they are known for. It is quality unsurpassed. read more

My first Candelas guitar was given to me by a special friend back in 1969, it was made by Tomas's uncle and is still played today. I've since purchased another classical cutaway guitar built back in 9/94 and sounds and plays great. Tomas has built me two ukuleles, tenor and a soprano which I use as a work horse, I love the great sound it projects. Thanks Tomas for some fantastic instruments! read more

Me and my girlfriend have the same appreciation for music. I knew nothing about guitar how to hold it and strum it or where to even place my fingers. My girlfriend found this place on day searching for lessons. Her selecting this place for us to learn how to play was a great choice. The whole staff is friendly and our instructor Kenneth is such an amazing teacher. The techniques he has taught both of us has helped a lot. He is very patient with his students and learning with him is such fun. I would recommend this place to anybody wanting to learn how to play. read more

We had the pleasure of taking classes and it was amazingly good Mr kenit is very passionate about the lessons.

These guitars are high-end, master crafted instruments. We purchased a Mariachi Guitar and a Vihuela. They are incredible instruments! The staff is very helpful and if you're really lucky, there will be some world-class musician in there trying one of Tomas's instruments. Prices are very high and worth it, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try to negotiate. If you're good at it and they like you, you can get a better price than what is posted on the website. read more

Serious classical guitar luthier! All handmade, no assembly line, only the finest aged woods and three generations of fine quality guitar makers! Customers work directly with the owner, Tomas. Very nice family owned business. Very, very rare these days. Can't wait to have Tomas make one for me! read more

I have 3 boys ages 11, 13, and 15. They have been taking guitar lessons from Kenneth for a little over a year and a half. I know it hasn't been an easy task as they do their lessons at the same time. I'm really happy with their progress and Kenneth's teaching methods. He has made it so fun for them and they love going to guitar class every week. I highly recommend Kenneth! read more

For many years, I played a baritone ukulele. I had a Vega (Arthur Godfrey), which I thought was the very best. In 1965, I was in a car accident. My Vega flew out of the trunk and landed in the street, in pieces. I took what was left of it to Candelas and said "Make me one like this". The one they built was every bit as good (or better) than the Vega. They also restored the Vega for me. read more

This place is fantastic! friendly, knowledgeable and honest. I came in with a completely destroyed and unplayable guitar, Tomas restored my family heirloom to a state better than it was before using 99.995% of the original wood, I will forever be grateful for what they did for my family, muchas gracias amigos!!!. If you're looking for a real special quality traditionally handcrafted, American made in Los USA Guitar; this is the place. If you need extra help, make an appointment, when it's slow Tomas and his team are there to answer all your questions but Candela's is a Los Angeles music history landmark and sometimes it's pack, don't be surprised to see notable musicians or celebs shopping and visiting, or having their instruments setup, repaired or restored. Candelas is the Stradivarius of East Los. read more

Great place to take guitar lessons! Ken is such an awesome instructor! Thank u for being patient with me through my process. If u think u can't learn to play a guitar Ken will make sure u learn! Thank You!!! Ken!!! read more

This past week I had some trouble with my Candelas Bajo Cuatro. The neck heel split in 2 and I had a gig the next day. I spoke with Tomas and he was able to get it fixed just in time. Played 6 hours 2 nights in a row and the bajo cuatro held up great. It even feels better now than it did before. Great work! read more

I can't give a better recommendation than this. Tomas has helped me with guitars for years, and has built a superb 1933 Santos Hernandez copy for me. I recommended him to my friend Eddie who had purchased a 1966 Ramirez and needed some repair work. That repair work was done professionally and he reports that the guitar is like brand new! Tomas is a consummate professional and has a true love for guitars; his workmanship reflects this. read more

They have a great professor, I have learn a lot from here. I strongly recommend Candelas they work with your schedule, the professor has many strategies of teaching if it isn't one way or another he will make you understand the concept of the music. Their not like other school that just care about money . The professor know what he's doing read more

Killer guitars, authentic Spanish sound and easy and fun to play!

Candelas Guitars makes some of the best sounding guitars I've ever played. Their craftsmanship and sound are timeless. I bought my first guitar from Candelas Guitars ten years ago. It was made of mahogany and cedar. That student level instrument rivals concert level guitars I've played from other luthiers around the world. Since then I've owned several classical and flamenco guitars as well as several Candelas guitars both from Thomas and guitars built by his Father. The quality playability and powerful sound is something that is unparalleled. Hoping to keep saving so I can visit the shop again and buy another newly made Candelas guitar. read more