About

From Humble Beginnings to a Global Online Music Store

Terry Carter Music Store was built on one simple mission: to inspire and support musicians worldwide. Founded by professional musician and educator Terry Carter, the store grew out of his online learning platform, Uke Like The Pros.

In 2018, Terry was approached by KoAloha Ukulele to sell a few instruments on consignment. With nothing more than email and PayPal, he began connecting players with high-quality ukuleles. That small step sparked a movement that would grow into today's global online music store.

Meet Terry Carter - The Musician Behind the Mission

Terry Carter is a San Diego-based musician, surfer, songwriter, and creator of terrycartermusicstore.com, ukelikethepros.com, and rocklikethepros.com. With over 30 years as a professional musician, educator, and Los Angeles studio musician, Terry brings unparalleled expertise to every aspect of the music store.

Professional Music Career

Terry's impressive career includes collaborations with music industry legends:

  • Weezer
  • Josh Groban
  • Robby Krieger (The Doors)
  • 2-time Grammy winning composer Christopher Tin (Calling All Dawns)
  • Duff McKagan (Guns N' Roses)
  • Grammy winning producer Charles Goodan (Santana/Rolling Stones)
  • Los Angeles Philharmonic

Media & Content Creation

Terry has written and produced tracks for major commercials (Discount Tire and Puma) and television shows, including Scorpion (CBS), Pit Bulls & Parolees (Animal Planet), Trippin', Wildboyz, and The Real World (MTV).

As an educator and content creator, Terry has:

  • Self-published over 20 books for Uke Like The Pros and Rock Like The Pros
  • Filmed over 50 ukulele and guitar online courses
  • Generated millions of views across his social media platforms

Educational Background & Teaching Experience

Terry holds a Master of Music in Studio/Jazz Guitar Performance from University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Music from San Diego State University, with emphasis in Jazz Studies and Music Education.

His teaching experience spans prestigious institutions including:

  • University of Southern California
  • San Diego State University
  • Santa Monica College
  • Miracosta College
  • Los Angeles Trade Tech College

Our Journey

  • 2018 -- First ukuleles sold through email and PayPal
  • 2019 -- Launch of our online store with brands like KoAloha, Kala and Ohana
  • 2020 -- Pandemic brings growth online; opens first 1,500 sq. ft. warehouse
  • 2021 -- Expands into a larger 5,000 sq. ft. storefront with a wide range of instruments
  • 2022 -- Rebrands from store.ukelikethepros.com to Terry Carter Music Store, reflecting a broader vision
  • 2023 -- Returns to an online-only model, expanding product lines and serving musicians worldwide

What We Offer

Today, Terry Carter Music Store provides one of the largest selections of musical instruments and gear online, including:

  • Ukuleles & Guitars -- From beginner-friendly to professional models
  • Accordions, Mandolins & Banjos -- Instruments for every musician's journey
  • DJ & Recording Equipment -- Perfect for home studios and performers
  • Drums & Percussion -- Everything you need to keep the beat
  • Accessories & Essentials -- Strings, picks, cases, straps, tuners, and more

Why Choose Terry Carter Music Store?

  • Musician-Led -- Founded by Terry Carter, a professional musician and educator with 30+ years of industry experience
  • Trusted Brands -- KoAloha, Kala, Ohana, Martin, Fender, Gibson, Guild, Cordoba, Kamaka, Kanile'a, Romero Creations, Flight, Lava, and many more
  • Worldwide Community -- Serving customers across the globe
  • Expert Guidance -- Personalized support from a team that knows musicians, backed by Terry's extensive studio and teaching experience
  • Passion for Music -- We live and breathe music --- and we want to share that with you

Brands You Trust, Gear You Love

We're proud to carry the most respected names in music. From legendary names like Martin, Fender, Gibson, Guild, Cordoba, KoAloha, Kamaka, Kanile'a, and Romero Creations to modern innovators like Flight, Lava, Orange, Blackstar, and Shure, we offer instruments and gear for every level of musician.

We also feature Vosta, our exclusive in-house brand, designed with musicians in mind --- blending quality craftsmanship and affordability.

Other brands we carry include: Anuenue, Blueridge, Kentucky, Pono, Deering, Sterling, Jet, Casio, Willow Creek, Risa, D'Addario, Ernie Ball, Fishman, Dunlop, Pioneer, Aria, and Goldstar.

Join the Terry Carter Music Store Family

What started as a small ukulele experiment has grown into a trusted home for musicians everywhere. Our commitment is the same today as it was in 2018: to provide exceptional instruments, expert service, and a supportive community.

With Terry's decades of professional music experience, studio work with Grammy winners, and educational expertise from top universities, you're not just buying an instrument --- you're gaining access to a lifetime of musical knowledge and passion.

👉 Discover your next instrument at https://terrycartermusicstore.com

 

IMPORTANT NOTE: 

Fraud Alert: Please be aware that fraudulent websites are impersonating Terry Carter Music Store, copying our photos, product descriptions, and name to trick customers with “too good to be true” prices. These sites do not ship real products — their goal is often to steal credit card details and personal information. Our only official website is www.terrycartermusicstore.com. If you see our brand used elsewhere, it is not authorized or legitimate. Protect yourself by shopping only through our official site.