After nearly 78 years of operation, Cassell's Music in San Fernando is closing its doors as owner Ed Intagliata retires. What once stood as a vibrant center for musicians and music lovers now faces a quiet end with empty shelves and memories echoing through the walls. From its beginnings in 1948 to becoming an iconic location featured in the film “Wayne’s World,” the shop has touched countless lives through generations. Customers recall childhood visits, first instruments, and the warm, welcoming presence of Ed and his family. As the store prepares for its final days, the community reflects on the deep impact this local gem had on their musical journeys and creative spirits.

A Home for Musicians and Memories

Cassell’s Music was more than just a retail space—it was a gathering place where aspiring musicians could explore, connect, and grow. Under the leadership of Ed Intagliata and his family, the store became a sanctuary for creativity, offering not only instruments and lessons but also a sense of belonging. Generations of locals found their musical start within its walls, often guided by the supportive presence of the Intagliatas. The store hosted impromptu jam sessions, offered unique promotions like free guitars at Dodgers games, and even served as a backdrop for Hollywood fame. This familial atmosphere made every visit feel personal and meaningful, leaving lasting impressions on those who walked through its doors.

For many, Cassell’s was the first stop on their musical journey. Customers fondly remember moments like receiving their first instrument from Ed or spending hours in the back room with friends experimenting with sound. Eric Knight recalled how he and fellow teenagers were never rushed out, unlike in larger chain stores. Instead, Ed would peek in and let them continue their musical explorations. The store wasn’t just a place to buy gear; it was a place to dream. Even the store’s decor, filled with memorabilia and personality, reflected the spirit of music and community. Over time, the shop evolved—once a record store, then a full-service music hub—but always retained its heart. It was this enduring warmth that made Cassell’s such a cherished part of the neighborhood for decades.

The Final Chords: A Chapter Comes to an End

With Ed Intagliata’s decision to retire after nearly half a century of stewardship, Cassell’s Music prepares for its final farewell. Once a thriving business passed down through the family, the store now stands as a bittersweet reminder of time passing and dreams fulfilled. Though the shelves are bare and the days are numbered, the legacy of the shop—and its influence on countless musicians—remains strong. From humble beginnings to global recognition thanks to a role in “Wayne’s World,” the story of Cassell’s is one of passion, perseverance, and community connection. As the lights dim for the last time, the emotional weight of closure resonates deeply with all who were part of its history.

Ed Intagliata’s journey began when he took over the store at just 24 years old, following in his father’s footsteps. He learned from mistakes, leaned on wisdom passed down, and nurtured the business through economic ups and downs. His siblings each contributed in different ways—whether repairing instruments, teaching lessons, or running marketing campaigns like giving away guitars at baseball games. These efforts helped solidify Cassell’s as a cornerstone of local culture. The store’s appearance in “Wayne’s World” brought international attention, drawing fans from across the globe eager to see the famous Fender Stratocaster on display. Yet beyond the celebrity, it was the everyday moments that defined the store’s true magic. Now, as Ed prepares to travel and enjoy retirement, he leaves behind more than a business—he leaves behind a legacy. The final day will mark not just the end of a shop, but the close of a chapter in the lives of many who called Cassell’s their musical home.