Frequently Asked Questions

How much are lessons?

$135 for 4 x 30 minute lessons. This is for 4 consecutive weeks of lessons.

When are you open?

Retail Hours:

Monday 11:00-6:00pm
Tuesday 11:00-6:00pm
Wednesday 11:00-6:00pm
Thursday 11:00-6:00pm
Friday 11:00-6:00pm
Saturday & Sunday 11:00-3:00pm

Lessons are available outside of these hours.

Are you teaching during Covid?

Yes! We moved online in early March 2020 & still offer in-person lessons with masks at our shop.

Do you buy guitars & other gear?

Yes, sometimes, but usually we consign instruments (sell them for you). We keep 30% of the sale price if it sells. Just bring in your instrument and your ID and we’ll take care of the rest. We ship all over the country. See our inventory and reviews on reverb.com.

Can I record in your studio tonight?

It doesn’t hurt to ask, but most sessions are scheduled in advance. We keep a pretty full schedule here, so contact us with your questions, and let’s get you on the calendar ASAP. The studio is available weekdays after 8pm for louder stuff & weekends after 3pm are also available. Studio Rate is $50 / hr. Contact us to schedule. See & hear studio samples HERE.

What does “Certain Sparks” mean?

CSM creator Randall Sena inexplicably wrote a song in 2002 with the lyric, “certain sparks / sweet sparks in you”.

When it came time to name his studio, “Certain Sparks” was the first thing he thought of! The phrase can also be found in THIS explanation of Jewish mysticism, and it resonates deeply with our personal and spiritual mission.

What instruments do you guys teach?

Guitar, bass, drums, ukulele, piano. We also offer Pro Tools software lessons!

Is it true that you offer a FREE 30 minute lesson?

Yep, contact us right now to schedule one. 🙂

How long have you guys been open?

+15 years! Our old location was on the corner of H & Laurel. We moved to South H Street January 2015.

Do you guys have concerts?

We occasionally host shows at our location. These are typically CD release shows for bands who have recorded in our studio. We also host concert events & our student recitals at Lompoc Wine Factory twice a year.

Do you know anyone who wants to jam???

We’re proud to say we’ve played a role in starting many local bands over the years. But setting up a jam is a lot like setting up a blind date, it helps if we really know who you are. So, come on down and get involved our music community. Drop into the shop for a chat, come to our events, and before you know it, you’ll be on stage with us!

Do you guys have sheet music?

We don’t stock any, but we can order you literally ANYTHING!