Joseph A. Guzzardo founded GUZZARDO MUSIC in 1932 at the age of 21. As a young student of music, he studied and traveled extensively gaining knowledge of the string instrument repertoire. With enormous enthusiasm, he opened his studio and taught music on a private and group basis. He maintained his business even during the difficulties of the Great Depression and later during World War II. Bartering produce for lessons was a common remuneration. Later, he opened his first storefront studio at State and Main in the heart of downtown Rockford.

From these humble beginnings, Mr. Guzzardo developed a following of students that blossomed into the hundreds. He was instrumental in the development of the American Guild of Music, which hosted annual contests designed to provide a measurement of student progress. These same students also participated in the Illinois State Fair Contests where they received numerous awards.

As student participation multiplied and as his reputation expanded throughout Northern Illinois, Mr. Guzzardo developed band programs for each level of student progress. Recitals where given on a monthly basis and students participated in various parades, concerts at Sinnissippi Park Band Shell and County Fairs. Many of these students currently teach music education and perform in the Rockford and the surrounding areas.

From its inception, Guzzardo Performance Music has promoted and encouraged the advancement of music. As a natural progression from this studio concept, Guzzardo Performance Music began renting and servicing instruments to students enrolled in public and private school band and orchestra programs. These activities have transformed Guzzardo Performance Music into the largest music service institution in the Northern Illinois area.

Guzzardo Performance Music has successfully combined its involvement in music education with direct musical instrument and equipment sales. In 1975, Guzzardo Performance Music, under the guidance of Joseph A. Guzzardo Jr., opened its present location at 3010 Charles in Rockford, IL. The expanded facilities have made this establishment one of the largest music stores in the Midwest. Its products, ranging from guitars, drums, and synthesizer to sound reinforcement and recording products, have made it a haven for both the amateur and professional musician. From its basic roots founded on music education to its present status as full service musical retailer, Guzzardo Performance Music has maintained the highest level of integrity and service to the community.

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

Today, this same tradition of high standards is continuing through an Employee Stock Ownership Program. Guzzardo Performance Music is now an employee owned company. The Guzzardo family and all full time employees own stock in Guzzardo Performance Music. They are whole-heartedly involved in the progress, performance and results of their business. You can trust that this involvement engenders the ultimate service to the customer.

The full time, dedicated Owner Employees of Guzzardo Performance Music extend to you our very best assistance toward your musical success.