Business Spotlight: Vishnu Music

 

  Vince Ottalagano, proprietor of Vishnu Music in downtown Gloversville, seems to know everyone in town! His customers run the gamut, from students to professionals to the weekend, garage band warriors. Vince does all the work at the shop, and his daughter Nicole lends a hand as needed.

  When I walked into his shop, my senses were immediately hit with that heady "music shop" smell.  You know what I'm talking about!  The aroma of the woods and the instruments, and the scents of the different oils and other products used to maintain the instruments.  It's akin to that "new car smell," but so much better because you know folks have purchased instruments and sheet music and lessons, and you're hoping you'll be witness to some of the music magic.

Fun Facts

1. Vince has been in business for 27 years.  He started Vishnu Music in Johnstown and moved to his current Gloversville location in 1990.
2. "Vishnu" stands for... (drum roll please!)... Vince's Incredibly Super Hot New (and) Used.  Awesome!

  Three words come to mind when I think of Vince:  familiar, fatherly, genuine.  Familiar, because he not only knows everyone but he also remembers nearly everything about everyone who comes into his shop.  Fatherly, because he is that mentor, that rock of the community who really wants to help his customers and do so at a fair price.  And genuine, because what you see is what you get.  A great businessman who pulls no punches and who believes in doing business the old fashioned way:  with loyalty, respect and a firm handshake.

  While Vishnu Music is on Facebook and the web, truth be told Vince is not really interested in the digital world when it comes to his business.  Instead, he focuses on killer customer service and long-term relationships with his customers.  You don't stay in business for nearly 30 years, most of which at the same location, if you aren't attentive to your customers and if your customers don't spread the word about you and your business via the tried-and-true word of mouth referral.    

Vince fielded at least 10 telephone calls while I was in the store, everything from restringing a guitar (which another technician at a different music shop had apparently messed up) to letting a customer know that he'll stay open a few minutes past closing.

  In my humble opinion, Vince Ottalagano is one the people who makes our very special little city great! Gloversville born and bred, a friend and mentor to musicians of every make and model throughout our community, and one helluva nice guy.  If you don't know Vince, you are missing out.  Stop in to Vishnu Music today and get to know this very special shop and its very special owner.

Vishnu Music

64 North Main Street

Gloversville NY  12078

(518) 773-2285

Web: VishnuMusic.com

Facebook: Vishnu Music

Article by Lori Davis