Moze Guitars began its journey in January 1975 after co-owner Moze Mossay opened shop in April 1974 and started the business on College Avenue. It thrived on College until April 2002 when Mossay and his partner decided to move to La Mesa.
“It was just one of the first places that we found that was nice after looking at several spots in El Cajon, but none of them were as nice as this location,” said Mossay. “I always wanted to be located in this area, but didn’t think we could afford it.”
Moze Guitars began its journey in January 1975 after co-owner Moze Mossay opened shop in April 1974 and started the business on College Avenue. It thrived on College until April 2002 when Mossay and his partner decided to move to La Mesa.
“It was just one of the first places that we found that was nice after looking at several spots in El Cajon, but none of them were as nice as this location,” said Mossay. “I always wanted to be located in this area, but didn’t think we could afford it.”
Moze Guitars offers a wide variety of guitars, lessons that teach many styles of guitar, ukulele and banjo music styles, and all of the accessories for the novice or expert guitar player.
Walt Keezell began working with Mossay in 1978 in the repair shop. He met Mossay through a friend and as a novice guitar player, said his hands were better suited to working with wood. He went to Mossay looking for advice and a friendship began that has now stood the test of time, he said.
“He was honest about his craft,” said Keezell. “He was patient and the next thing I knew I was working with him and shortly became partners.”
Keezell said move to La Mesa reminded him of what the College neighborhood was like when they first began.
“This is a walkable city,” he said. “It has a sense of community and it was a good business move for us.”
Though Mossay began his journey at American Dream Guitar, that launched Taylor Guitars and Deering Banjo, that he never had aspirations of going into large production as much as he loved making guitars. He said he wanted to keep a small operation, but now is getting back into the craft of guitar making on a regular basis. He said it is all of the parts of the business and the ability to help customers individually that is his passion.
“We try to cover as much as we are able to,” he said. “We cater to many people that need guitar repairs, a large part of our business, and many become returning customers. And that is one of the things that sets us apart from the others is the fact that it is a full service repair department on any kind of guitar.”
Keezell said they treat everyone that walks through the door equally and fairly.
“That is why I believe that we are so successful,” he said. “Word of mouth about our service is what keeps this business going.”
Mossay said they hold workshops, custom repairs and have a unique collection of some really cool stuff. They do trades and a part of the business is selling parts for those who make instruments on their own. Keezell said they are both freely give advice to those who want to build.
Along with Gene Winer, Mossay said between the three of them, they can help any customer with what needs they have.
“I just wanted to keep the business small, intimate and focus on products and service,” he said.
