Three Generations of Music in Albany
The Capital Region's oldest music store and music school — locally rooted, nationally recognized, and built on 80+ years of teaching, service, and family tradition.
Built on Music, Service & Family
From a single lesson program in the late 1930s to a full-service music store and school serving customers nationwide.
Hilton Music Center's foundation is built on music education, service, and family tradition. What began as a lesson-based music program in the late 1930s under Roland A. Hilton grew steadily through a commitment to teaching and mentorship. That dedication led to the opening of the first Hilton Music Center store at 52 Columbia Street in Albany, NY on December 15, 1961, establishing a permanent home for musicians, students, and families.
Since the 1980s, the original store has been proudly owned and operated by Lorain Hilton Van-Zandt, second-generation owner, who has continued the Hilton legacy while expanding the business to meet the needs of modern musicians. Remaining in the original location reflects a deep respect for tradition, consistency, and long-standing community relationships.
Today, Hilton Music Center is a large, full-service retail music operation and learning school, serving customers locally and across the United States. While deeply rooted in the local community, the store is also recognized nationwide for its competitive pricing, trusted expertise, and personalized service — values that have defined the Hilton name for decades.
Over 1,000,000 Lessons Taught
One of the Capital Region's largest and oldest music teaching facilities — a lesson program that dates back to the 1930s.
From beginners to advancing students and lifelong musicians, instruction is designed to encourage long-term growth and continued participation in music. Our instructors focus on skill-building, creativity, and enjoyment — helping students not only learn music, but stay involved for life.
Brands We're Proud to Carry
A wide selection of major music brands chosen to meet the needs of students, educators, working musicians, and music programs nationwide.
Tap any brand to browse what we currently have in stock.
A Family Legacy in Music
Three generations of Hiltons keeping music alive in Albany — through both Hilton Music Center and our sister business, Hilton Piano Center.
Founder. Started the Hilton lesson program in the late 1930s and opened the original Hilton Music Center store at 52 Columbia Street in December 1961.
Second-generation owner of Hilton Music Center since the 1980s. Continues the family tradition while expanding to meet modern musicians' needs.
Third-generation owner of Hilton Piano Center, originally founded by his father Bob Hilton Sr., Lorain's brother. Carries the Hilton name into a new generation.
The Hilton family legacy continues in Albany through Hilton Piano Center, our family sister business specializing in acoustic pianos and higher-end keyboards. Together, both stores represent more than 80 years of unbroken family commitment to music in the Capital Region.
Find Us in Albany, NY
Hilton Music Center
440 Colonie Center, Albany, NY 12205
Colonie Center Shopping Mall — upper level near Macy's
From Albany International Airport (ALB): Travel southeast on NY-155 (Albany–Shaker Road), turn right onto Wolf Road, and after one mile turn left into Colonie Center Mall.
Whether you're looking for your next instrument, a lesson program, or just want to chat about music — we're here.
