Guitar Center opening on Fulton Street reflects growing interest in guitars
Nick Chalas, general manager of the Guitar Center in downtown Brooklyn, cuts the ribbon at the store’s grand re-opening after moving from the basement of Atlantic Terminal to its street-facing location in January.
Eagle photo by Clark Adomaitis
By Clark Adomaitis
February 18, 2025
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DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN — The guitar has long been a gateway into the world of music, captivating beginners and seasoned musicians with its versatility and accessibility. From its portability to its wide range of tones, the guitar remains one of the most beloved instruments across generations.
Despite its popularity, the guitar industry has experienced fluctuations over the past decade. In 2017, The Washington Post published an article lamenting the “slow, secret death of the six-string electric,” raising concerns about the instrument’s future. The iconic Gibson brand filed for bankruptcy the following year, casting further doubt on the industry’s stability.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a resurgence in guitar sales. With people spending more time at home, many picked up the guitar as a new hobby, reigniting interest in the instrument. Guitar manufacturers Fender, Gibson, Martin, Taylor reported their highest sales. Fender Play, a guitar instruction app, saw an increase to 930,000 from 150,000 between March and June 2020. According to music industry research, guitar sales have continued to increase since 2020.
The Brooklyn Guitar Center, a large retail store that occupied a prime spot in Atlantic Center, has recently moved to a new store at 536 Fulton Fulton Street.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.