Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Premier Music Education & Instrument Hub in San Diego
San Diego Music Studio has been a cornerstone of musical education and community engagement since 1994. Founded as a small in-home business in downtown San Diego, we have grown into a vibrant hub for musicians of all ages, offering expert instruction, instrument rentals, and repair services. Our commitment to fostering a musical community is reflected in our advocacy efforts, local programs, and global initiatives like the Philippines Ukulele Project, which brings music education to at-risk children. Under the leadership of owner Robin Sassi, we have earned recognition as a NAMM Top 100 Dealer for 11 consecutive years and received accolades such as the Music Makes a Difference Award.Our team of certified instructors and repair technicians combines decades of experience with a passion for empowering individuals through music. We prioritize accessibility, offering free workshops, instrument donations, and tailored lessons for all skill levels. With a focus on innovation and inclusivity, we continue to champion music education at local, national, and international levels.
Services
Music Lessons
Instrument Rentals
Repairs
Retail Sales
Community Programs
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer 30 years of expertise in music education and instrument services.
- Our certified instructors teach all skill levels in a supportive environment.
- We provide free community workshops and instrument repair clinics.
- Our global outreach includes the Philippines Ukulele Project for underserved youth.
- We are a 11-time NAMM Top 100 Dealer with industry-leading repair technicians.
What people say
Expert instructors
Quality repair work
Engaging group lessons
Community-focused programs
Wide instrument selection
Services
Music Lessons
We offer group and private music lessons for all skill levels. Our certified instructors teach piano, guitar, band instruments, and strings in a supportive environment. Lessons emphasize technique, music theory, and performance skills while fostering creativity. Students benefit from small class sizes (max 6 students) and flexible scheduling options including multiple weekly sessions.
Instrument Repairs
Our master technicians provide expert repairs for brass, woodwind, and string instruments. Services include ultrasonic cleaning, valve adjustments, and comprehensive maintenance. With over 20 years of experience, our NAPBIRT-certified technician ensures optimal instrument performance. We offer fast turnaround times and satisfaction guarantees for all repair work.
Instrument Rentals
We offer instrument rental programs for students with flexible payment options. Available instruments include band/orchestra instruments, guitars, and ukuleles. Our rental program includes maintenance support and upgrade options. Customers can manage accounts online through our Rental Station portal for payments and balance tracking.
Community Programs
We lead local and global music education initiatives including free workshops, school partnerships, and the Philippines Ukulele Project. Our programs provide donated instruments to underserved communities and offer advocacy training. We also host events like instrument petting zoos and student performance showcases to engage the community.
Retail Sales
Our retail operations include sheet music, instruments, and accessories from trusted brands. We carry method books like Essential Elements, instrument care kits, and performance accessories. The store serves as a one-stop shop for students with educational materials, reeds, strings, and performance gear for all music disciplines.
People
Robin Sassi
Owner
Robin Sassi founded San Diego Music Studio in 1994 and has led its growth into a community music hub. They direct global outreach programs like the Philippines Ukulele Project and serve on the NAMM Board. Robin advocates for music education policy in Washington D.C. and leads local community initiatives.
David Montoya
Manager/Instructor
David Montoya teaches woodwinds and manages repairs at SDMS. With 6 years of teaching experience, he instructs flute, clarinet, and saxophone while apprenticing as a repair technician. He performs in multiple ensembles and coaches school bands in the San Diego area.
Mario Martinez
Master Repair Technician
Mario Martinez, known as Super Mario, has 20+ years of repair experience. A NAPBIRT-certified technician, he specializes in brass, woodwind, and string instrument care. He mentors repair staff and guarantees quality service using professional-grade tools and replacement parts for lasting repairs.
Connor Bagheri
Band Instructor
Connor Bagheri teaches brass instruments and directs band programs. A San Marcos native, he has 13 years of performance experience in concert bands, jazz ensembles, and Disneyland performances. He coaches brass sections at Encinitas and Carlsbad schools.
Chelsea Strayer
String Instructor
Chelsea Strayer, a Peabody Conservatory graduate, teaches guitar, piano, and strings. Pursuing a master's in Double Bass at Yale, she focuses on healthy musician development. Her teaching combines performance expertise with music education principles for holistic student growth.
Questions
What music lesson options are available for beginners?
We offer group lessons for all instruments with small class sizes (max 6 students). Beginners receive foundational training in technique, music reading, and performance skills through our structured curriculum.
Do you offer instrument repair services for school bands?
Yes, we provide specialized repair services for school bands including bulk maintenance programs, on-site clinics, and priority turnaround times for educational institutions.
Can I rent instruments online?
Yes, our Rental Station portal allows online account management for payments, balance tracking, and instrument rentals. Visit our website to access these services.
What community music programs do you offer?
We host free instrument workshops, student performance events, and the Philippines Ukulele Project. Our outreach includes school partnerships, instrument donations, and advocacy training programs.
Are there music classes for young children?
Yes, we offer Toddler Music Time for ages 0-3 and beginner ukulele clubs. Our early childhood programs focus on rhythmic development, basic instrument exploration, and musical play.
