Learning from the very best
The Ottawa Folklore Centre is a national capital institution known and frequented by folk music fans far and wide. More than just a retail store, the centre offers music lessons, instrument repairs and is a great place to find out who's playing in town. The Centre specializes in small group classes and one-on-one instruction adapted to individual goals and personal tastes. Classes in acoustic and electric guitar meet a wide range of musical needs. With expertise in Delta Blues, R&B, jazz, reggae, grunge, alternative, folk, classical and country (to name a few), the Centre employs professional instructors in every possible area.

More than guitar strings attached
For those interested in enhancing their skills in other musical areas, the Centre also offers a various lessons for fiddlers (Celtic, French Canadian, old time), vocal studies (opera, classical, show tunes, Celtic), piano lessons (jazz, classical) and lessons for more eclectic instruments such as the mandolin, tin whistle, banjo, drums and bagpipes. It's advisable to check out the Centre's web site for updated information on other special events with themes such as "Meet a Guitar builder" or the free in-house concerts by the Folklore Centre's own instructors.

Meeting all of your musical needs
Located in the Glebe, the store side of the Ottawa Folklore Centre sells hard-to-find CDs, including a great Canadian folk collection. If you can't find what you're looking for, the staff will help you locate and order it. Musical instruments line the walls, an impressive collection of drums are sold, and you'll find a wide range of musical accessories, including music stands and guitar strings. Prices are relatively standard, and Centre members can take advantage of valuable discounts on books, CDs and other music-related merchandise.