Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Music Lessons, Rentals & Repairs in Pennsylvania
Brighton Music Center has been a cornerstone of music education and retail since 1958, founded by James Botti and James Kaplan to address the need for personalized music instruction. Over decades, we evolved from a private lesson studio into a full-service music hub serving Western Pennsylvania. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our NAMM 2025 Dealer of the Year and Best Customer Service awards, recognizing our excellence in retail and customer care. We offer instrument rentals, repairs, and sales alongside tailored music lessons taught by professional instructors. Our team combines deep musical expertise with a passion for community engagement, ensuring every customer receives personalized support.We prioritize integrity, legendary service, and a no-pressure environment to foster lifelong musical journeys. Our two locations in New Brighton and Pittsburgh provide accessible services for students, educators, and musicians at all levels. Through initiatives like Guiding Notes, we empower parents to support their children's musical growth. With a legacy of innovation and service, we remain dedicated to making music accessible and inspiring future generations.
Services
Instrument Rentals
Music Lessons
Instrument Repairs
Retail Sales
Electronics Repair
Sound System Installations
Group Classes
School Services
Workshops
Event Hosting
Details
- Year established: 1958
Highlights and features
- Established in 1958 with deep roots in music education and retail
- NAMM 2025 Dealer of the Year and Best Customer Service award recipient
- Free school delivery and educator-approved instrument rentals
- Expert repair services for all instrument types by professional technicians
- Community-focused programs like Guiding Notes for parent engagement
Associations and certifications
- NAMM
What people say
Excellent customer service
Quality rentals
Expert instructors
Community engagement
Reliable repairs
Services
Instrument Rentals
We offer school-approved instrument rentals with flexible terms including monthly payments, upgrades, and purchases. Our program includes free school delivery, educator-recommended instruments, and equity-building options toward ownership. Every rental receives professional maintenance to ensure optimal playability.
Music Lessons
Personalized in-store music lessons taught by experienced professionals cover all skill levels and instruments. Our instructors provide weekly sessions focused on individual progress, with scheduling flexibility and waitlist options for preferred teachers. Lessons cater to both beginners and advanced students preparing for auditions.
Instrument Repairs
Our expert technicians handle repairs for woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion instruments. Services range from minor adjustments to full restorations, with temporary repair shop closures noted for orchestral strings. We maintain instruments to professional standards for optimal tone and playability.
Retail Sales
We sell new and used instruments, accessories, sheet music, and electronics across multiple categories including band, orchestra, and guitar. Our inventory includes educator-recommended equipment and performance gear, supported by knowledgeable staff for instrument selection and setup guidance.
Community Programs
Guiding Notes initiative connects parents and educators through workshops, blogs, and resource sharing. We host open mic events, provide school partnerships, and offer text-based support systems for families navigating music education. These programs foster community engagement and long-term musical development.
People
Brad Wittmer
Co-Owner
Co-owner since 2011, Brad focuses on making music accessible through instrument access, school deliveries, and community engagement. He combines business leadership with a passion for music education.
Richard Schiemer
Co-Owner
Co-owner Richard Schiemer emphasizes integrity and customer care, ensuring every interaction reflects Brighton Music Center's values. He contributes strategic vision while maintaining hands-on involvement in daily operations.
Questions
What instrument rental options are available?
We offer flexible monthly rentals for band/orchestra instruments with equity-building options toward ownership. Free school delivery and educator-approved equipment ensure easy access for students.
Do you provide music lessons for all skill levels?
Yes, our professional instructors teach beginners through advanced students in various instruments, with personalized weekly sessions and scheduling flexibility.
Are instrument repair services available?
Our technicians handle repairs for most instruments, though orchestral string repairs are temporarily unavailable. We maintain equipment for optimal performance and playability.
How does the Guiding Notes program benefit parents?
Guiding Notes connects music parents through blogs, workshops, and resource sharing to support children's musical development at home and in school programs.
What retail products do you offer?
We sell instruments, accessories, sheet music, and electronics for band, orchestra, and guitar. Our inventory includes educator-recommended gear and performance equipment.
Are there community events for musicians?
Monthly open mic nights at our New Brighton location provide performance opportunities for local musicians across all genres and experience levels.