Over the decades, Flute Center evolved from a small-scale operation into a nationally recognized institution, now regarded as one of the premier destinations for flute sales, service, and expertise in the United States. With a strong foundation in repair, the company expanded its mission to include a comprehensive range of offerings—serving flutists of all levels with curated instrument trials, expert consultations, and an extensive inventory of flutes and accessories.

We invite you to explore the rich history of Flute Center: a story of dedication, growth, and enduring service to the flute community, from its unassuming beginnings to its present-day role as a cornerstone of the American flute industry. Want to see Flute Center history come to life with photos? Check out our Timeline here.

Early Beginnings

In the summer of 1978, Phil Unger graduated from the prestigious Allied Repair School, the top instrument repair program in the country. Searching for his first job, he interviewed at music stores in Dallas, Texas, and San Francisco, California, ultimately accepting a position at Culver Music in Dallas. He spent two years repairing instruments in Mesquite, Texas, before moving to the Dallas Independent School District, where he specialized in woodwind repairs. It was here that Phil recognized a growing demand for high-quality, professional flute repair.  

Phil Trains at Powell

Determined to become a master flute repair technician, Phil reached out to Jim Phelan at Powell Flutes. He was granted the opportunity to train under Phelan in Boston, paying $100 per session. After completing his training in 1983, Phil rented his first office space in Fair Park, Texas, launching The Woodwind Repair of Dallas and therefore becoming the first official Powell dealer. This workshop allowed him to hone his repair skills and marked the beginning of his flute sales business. As a skilled salesman, Phil helped flutists sell their instruments on consignment, and before long, he became the first official Powell Flutes dealer.  

Meeting People Where They Are

Phil’s reputation grew one flute at a time. What truly set him apart was his approach to customer service; Phil built a relationship with each and every client, learning their names, taking them out to dinner, and getting to know their instruments. His dedication paid off—one day, legendary flutist Sir James Galway was referred to Phil for a repair. Phil’s interaction with “The Man with the Golden Flute” led to a wave of support from prominent musicians, solidifying The Woodwind Repair of Dallas as a trusted name in the flute community. After 13 successful years in Dallas, Phil was ready for a new challenge, and moved his family and business to New Jersey in 1995.

The Move to New York

That year at the New York Flute Fair, Phil met David Ginnott, owner of Rayburn Music in Boston. David invited Phil to move his flute shop into Rayburn Music’s Manhattan location. Embracing this opportunity, Phil rebranded his business as Flute Center of New York—marked by a simple, handmade sign in the shop window on Columbus Avenue in 1995.  

The Move to Broadway

By 2000, Flute Center had outgrown its space in Rayburn’s Music and moved to a bigger store at 1841 Broadway. The store at 1841 Broadway carried flute brands such as Powell and Sankyo, offered high-level repairs, and began specializing in consignments.

New Growth

Then in 2012, a new chapter began: Phil met Julian Rose at the National Flute Convention in Las Vegas. Phil invited Julian to visit the shop, and soon after, Julian joined as a full-time employee, taking over business operations and financial management. With Julian’s leadership, Flute Center flourished. As the company grew, Flute Center of New York brought on Haynes Custom Flutes, Brannen, Nagahara, and began carrying the full line of Burkart, Miyazawa, Muramatsu, and Altus among other brands. Since Flute Center of New York grew so much with retail and hiring more employees, the company moved to a different office in the same building, four times the space in 2015. 

 Adding Sheet Music 

Recognizing the evolving needs of flute players, Julian spearheaded the launch of Rose Music in 2018, expanding the business into sheet music sales. This success paved the way for Flute Center’s growth into accessories in 2019. Later that year, the company moved into its current flagship location at 307 7th Ave, New York.  

Flute Center Chicago

But Phil and Julian weren’t done yet. Eager to expand, they opened Flute Center Chicago in October 2023, marking the company’s first step toward national growth.

From a basement workshop to a multi-city enterprise, Flute Center has built its legacy on expertise, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the flute community.

How did Flute Center become the leading expert in the industry? 

Flute Center became the leading expert in its field through Phil’s philosophy of building a business that reflects his values—treating people with fairness, respect, and dedication. He firmly believes in the principle that the customer is always right, taking full responsibility for resolving any issue. This unwavering commitment means going to the ends of the earth to ensure customer satisfaction. At Flute Center, the priority is always achieving the best possible outcome, no matter what it takes.

Flute Center is truly a company that is self-taught and self-built. Flutists from around the world now recognize it as the top flute shop made for flutists, by flutists.