Fender further Builds upon Distribution Rights to Art of Guitar in the Middle East
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, the world-renowned manufacturer of guitars, basses, and amplifiers, proudly announced its distribution partnership with Art of Guitar in 2024, the leading premier guitar dealers and music academies across the Middle East and North Africa, recognized for their commitment to quality instruments, music education, and five-star customer service. The partnership marked a significant step in expanding Fender's presence and accessibility across the Middle East region ; one of the fastest-growing youth markets globally and showing a successive year of double digit growth across the whole range of musical instruments ,with the highest CAGR coming from Guitars and Amps.
The partnership has been steadily building since the beginning of the year and encompassed multiple elements such as designing a bespoke Masterbuilder event, becoming the appointed re-seller for the worlds most expensive production model Fender guitar (The Faberge Coronation Stratocaster by Yuriy Shishkov - a $1m guitar available for viewing through appointment only) and individual exclusive guitar colourways and finishes exclusive to the Middle Easts leading guitar Retailer ; Art of Guitar is completing its first year as the distributor of Fender’s full range of products, including iconic Fender Master Built, Custom Built, and the full range of electric guitars, bass guitars, and acoustic models. During this time the range and breadth of iconic Fender Signature builds, Master Builds and Custom Shop offerings has increased exponentially and plans for next year show this to continue to expand with new concepts and outlets in the pipeline
A Perfect Match for Musicians Everywhere
The partnership is designed to bring Fender's top-tier instruments to more musicians, hobbyists, and professionals alike while leveraging Art of Guitar's deep expertise in customer service, retail, and education.
“We are thrilled with our partnership with Art of Guitar in the Middle East,” said Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Liam Cunnah, at Fender. “Their dedication to educating musicians, providing a stage for live music and visiting artists combined with showcassing local talent and providing world-class instruments aligns with Fender’s mission to inspire musicians at every stage of their journey. This end to end partnership ensures that more players can access our products and the unique experience that comes with owning a Fender."
“It is an honor to collaborate with a legendary brand like Fender,” said Founder and CEO of Art of Guitar, Rick Vlemmiks. “We can see that this partnership has already greatly enhanced the musical experience for our customers, offering them unparalleled access to the instruments that have shaped the sound of music for generations including rare signature models that previously did not even reach the MENA region . Whether they're picking up a guitar for the first time or adding a new classic to their collection, this partnership allows us to continue to better serve the entire Middle East music community.”
Expanded Reach, Enhanced Service
As part of this agreement, Art of Guitar will enhance its distribution capabilities, bringing Fender’s renowned craftsmanship to a wider audience while maintaining the high standard of service they are known for. This collaboration will also enable Art of Guitar to expand its educational programs, ensuring that both beginners and seasoned players have the tools they need to grow and evolve as musicians.
About Fender Musical Instruments Corporation
Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, creators of the iconic Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Precision Bass. Fender instruments have been played by music’s most renowned artists across every genre, from rock and pop to jazz, country, and beyond. Countless musicians spanning all genres have created classic music with Fender from dozens of Blues Legends like Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Jeff Beck to John Mayer, Country legends such as Brad Paisley & Waylon Jennings, Classic and Experimental Rock such as Pete Townsend and John Entwistle of the Who, The Edge & Adam Clayton of U2, David Gilmour and Roger Waters of Pink Floyd to Johnny Greenwood of Radiohead, and even punk icons such as Joe Strummer of the Clash and LA punk-to- perennial rockers of the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Flea and John Frusciante. Chances are - if you can hum the song, it has a Fender in the mix somewhere!
About Art of Guitar Group
Art of Guitar is the premier guitar dealer and music academy in the Middle East offering the widest range of musical instruments, lessons, and services and even fully owning it’s own music venue which has allowed a plethora of western artists to join with local talent through workshops , masterclasses and open jams. With a focus on quality and craftsmanship, Art of Guitar has established itself as a leading destination for musicians seeking expert advice, hands-on experiences, and world-class instruments.
Art of Guitar is a proud recipient of the prestigious NAMM Top 100 Dealers Award for 2025, the first retailer outside the U.S. to receive the honor in the award’s 100-plus-year history. Their focus on curating exceptional instruments, combined with personalized support for musicians at all levels, makes them an ideal partner for this groundbreaking collaboration with Fender.
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