A Treasure Trove of Cigar Box Instruments
Step inside The Cigar Box Guitar Store and you’ll be greeted by a diverse collection of around 40 cigar box guitars, alongside other fascinating cigar box instruments. Whether you’re seeking a three-string, four-string, or even a cigar box bass guitar, this store has something to pique your interest. They also craft cigar box amplifiers and tambourines, expanding the sonic possibilities of these unique instruments.
Starting at $175, these guitars are not just instruments; they are playable art. Tuned to Open G, they are remarkably accessible for beginners eager to start playing, while experienced guitarists will appreciate their capacity for complex musical exploration. Each guitar boasts a unique design and can be played both acoustically and amplified, offering versatility for various musical styles.
Historically, cigar box guitars have been embraced by legendary musicians such as Bo Diddley, Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, Ed King of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top. Even closer to home, Huntsville’s own music scene features local talents like John Nickel, John Savage, and Microwave Dave, who are known for incorporating cigar box guitars into their performances.
Free Cigar Box Guitar Lessons Every Week
Curious to try your hand at playing a cigar box guitar? The Cigar Box Guitar Store makes it easy and accessible with FREE lessons every Saturday from Noon to 2:00 pm. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some musical experience, simply drop in – no prior booking required. Loaner guitars are always available at no cost, and there’s absolutely no pressure to make a purchase. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover the joy of making music and experience the unique sound of a cigar box guitar firsthand.
Celebrating Cigar Box Guitar Heritage: Home of the World’s Longest-Running Festival
The Cigar Box Guitar Store is not just a retail space; it’s a hub for the cigar box guitar community. Its location within Lowe Mill A&E is significant, as Lowe Mill is home to the longest-running cigar box guitar festival in the world. The annual Cigar Box Guitar Festival, a free event, celebrated its 20th anniversary in May/June 2024, featuring 12 musical acts and raising funds for music education. Mark your calendars for the next festival, scheduled for May 30 – June 1, 2025, and sign up for updates to stay informed about this unique celebration of music and craftsmanship.
Mad Sci Innovations: Where Playable Art is Born
The Cigar Box Guitar Store is the exclusive physical storefront for Mad Sci Innovations, the creative brainchild of luthier Jeff Mello and his wife Tara, who own the store. Jeff’s creations are truly “playable art,” ranging from three and four-string guitars crafted from cigar boxes to instruments ingeniously repurposed from recycled materials like lunchboxes, tins, and even baseball bats. His artistry extends beyond guitars to include tambourines, amplifiers, Bluetooth music players, bass guitars, and washboards, all born from upcycled materials. Explore the gallery of Mad Sci Innovations’ playable art online to witness the ingenuity and craftsmanship firsthand.
Shop Cigar Box Guitars Online or Visit in Huntsville
Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the immersive experience of visiting in person, The Cigar Box Guitar Store caters to both.
Explore your options:
- Shop online to browse their selection from anywhere in the world.
- View current inventory to see what’s currently available.
- Design your custom cigar box guitar and bring your unique musical vision to life.
Plan your visit:
Located in Studio 106 at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment (2211 Seminole Dr. SW, Huntsville, AL 35805), The Cigar Box Guitar Store welcomes visitors during these hours:
- Wed-Thurs: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm (at least)
- Fri: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm (at least)
- Sat: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (at least)
For private appointments outside these hours or on Sun-Tues (when Lowe Mill is closed), call 256-886-8554. Click here for a map and directions to easily find the studio within the Lowe Mill complex.
The Cigar Box Guitar Store offers a unique destination for musicians, art lovers, and anyone seeking a distinctive musical experience. Visit and discover the charm and sounds of cigar box guitars for yourself!
