The St. Louis Music Supply Company was founded in 1922 by Bernard Kornblum as a violin shop. The business grew over the years and Bernard's son, Gene Kornblum joined the company in 1957. The Alvarez trademark was established in 1965, and was one of the first Asian producers to feature laminate-body guitars with a solid wood top. After success with the guitar line, Alvarez introduced a few mandolins based on traditional designs. Alvarez instruments are designed by St. Louis Music and produced overseas. In 2005, LOUD Technologies, Inc. purchased St. Louis Music, Inc. and all of their trademarks. With this acquisition, the headquarters in St. Louis was moved to Woodinville, WA. However, the guitar repair and set-up shop is still located in St. Louis. For more information, contact Alvarez directly or visit their website.
Mandolins currently manufactured in Japan and Korea since the mid-1960s. Distributed by LOUD Technologies, Inc. in Woodinville, WA since 2005. Previously distributed by St. Louis Music Inc., in St. Louis, MO.