Pinecrest's Music Store, Miami Music Works

The world is constantly changing, and with each new generation, there emerges a unique musical landscape that reflects their distinct tastes and experiences. This phenomenon is especially pronounced during our teenage years, when individuals are exploring their identities and forming their preferences. Therefore, music becomes a powerful medium through which we express our emotions, connect with peers, and navigate the complexities of adolescence. Each generation's soundtrack is not just a collection of songs; it serves as a cultural touchstone, encapsulating the hopes, struggles, and aspirations of its time.

It stands to reason that every community should have a music store that can help people connect with music and act as a gathering place for personal musical exploration. Thankfully, Pinecrest has this covered.

Since 1991, Miami Music Works (in Pinecrest Center - 11771 S Dixie Hwy) has helped budding musicians and ‘rockstars’ alike feed their ambition to create their own music. Owner John Rose recalls, “When we started out, there were seven piano stores in Miami and you advertised in the Yellow Pages. Today, the print Yellow Pages are gone and only one other piano store remains. We have survived and thrived because we are diverse. We are a full line music store and a teaching center, and that combination gives us strength.”

Rose emphasized, “So many people today use the Internet, and the Internet is not personal. When it comes to selecting a musical instrument, it is a very personal choice and it required customization and guidance. We provide that here at Miami Music Works.”

[L-R] Paul Turco, John Rose, Luis Gonzalez and Ruddy Rivera

When people enter the store, they are encouraged to touch and explore. The staff is focused on creating the right environment and custom experience for the person who walks in. Rose explains, “You need to find the key that works for that particular individual.”

The store is filled with keyboards, full pianos, guitars, violins and various other musical pieces and equipment and the staff is all-too-eager to sample any instrument for you and let you feel the musical energy each one brings, whether the player is a newbie or an accomplished musician.

“One of our strengths is not only do we sell musical instruments, but we also teach you how to play that instrument. We have some 25 teachers that work through Miami Music Works. So, we can find the right fit between student and teacher. All of us have music knowledge, but the magic happens when we can relay the knowledge to the students in just the right way,” explained Rose. “While we do offer online and at-home education, we feel it is best to learn with one of our music teachers in one of our 11 in-store studios. Especially for beginners, it is critical to get hands-on direct communication to establish a good foundation.”

Miami Music Works did see a big drop-off of music lessons during COVID. I would have thought the opposite with so many of us exploring our abilities as chefs, gardeners and learning new languages. Regardless, the number of students is steadily climbing again, but are not as strong as they were in 2019.

The store staffers are all quite seasoned. Luis Gonzalez, the general manager, has been with Miami Music Works since 1991. It is Luis who happily greets people at the door and can’t wait to tickle the ivory keys. “It’s all about keeping the musical instruments alive,” remarked Luis. “This younger generation need the opportunity to learn how to play an instrument and read music, or we might lose these instruments. I take pride in bringing music into their lives and advocating for this art.”

Ruddy Rivera is the MI (musical instruments) manager and the store’s IT guy. Besides selling instruments, he’s the guy you see for instrument repairs, which are done in-store and typically within 48 hours. “We are honest folks here. We simply won’t overprice a repair or restring,” explains Rivera. “What we want is happy, repeat customers.”

If you’re ready for a lesson, you’ll interact with Paul Turco who runs the lessons program. He’ll match you up with the right instructor and track your progress.

Owner John Rose plays several instruments himself, but running a music store has been his dream since high school. He even got a degree in Music Merchandising. “I love what I do! And I can’t see myself every leaving Miami Music Works.”

As a Pinecrest real estate expert, I am often asked about resources and places that set Pinecrest apart from other South Florida communities. This is one of the places I can highly recommend. You can find out more at miamimusicworks.com or call them at 305-256-1655.