The Roots of Rock - The Ultimate Guitar Collection

The Roots of Rock Collection was a world-renowned collection of vintage and new guitars and amplifiers. Independently valued at about $4 million USD, this collection was donated to the Toronto Community Foundation by Toronto businessman and philanthropist Tony Melman, with all proceeds benefitting childhood cancer. The collection included over 260 vintage and new guitars and 50 amplifiers, all in almost perfect condition. Some of the highlights of the collection included one of the finest 1954 Fender Stratocasters known to exist, every standard variation of the Gibson Les Paul gold top model produced from 1952 to 1958, and the world’s most comprehensive collection of blonde Gibson electric archtop guitars.

“The purpose was to pay tribute to the artists and guitar makers who collectively gave birth to rock 'n roll music,” said Melman of the Roots collection.” It captured the convergence of guitar design and innovation, the spirit of a new culture, and the artistry and sound of pure rock 'n roll.

This site features a comprehensive catalogue of the collection.  For a complete list of the collection, click here.  For additional information, please contact Ray Kopko.

As of December 31, 2009, only 27 guitars and 7 amplifiers remain from the original 309 instruments in the collection. The 34 remaining instruments are listed below by category. Click on each one to see a color photo. The sales team of Ed McDonald, Tom Van Hoose, and Ray Kopko are standing by to assist you in making your selections. Please continue to visit the website and view the remaining guitars and amps, and contact us with any questions you may have.

We will continue to help each of you find that special guitar and amp that you can enjoy for years to come, knowing that your purchases are funding important research and programs to help ensure the best chance of survival and an optimal quality of life for children with cancer.